OA21042A

OA21042A - An agrochemical composition.

Info

Publication number: OA21042A
Application number: OA1202200346
Authority: OA
Inventors: Satish Ekanath Bhoge; Achintya MONDAL
Original assignee: Upl Limited
Priority date: 2020-02-29
Filing date: 2021-02-18
Publication date: 2023-10-09

Abstract

The present invention relates to an agrochemical composition for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide, such as glyphosate and glufosinate, using non-ionic surfactants and electrolytes in order to enhance stomatal penetration. Also provided is a method of controlling undesirable plants using said compositions.

Description

AN AGROCHEMICAL COMPOSITION

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The présent invention relates to an agrochemical composition for improving the effectiveness 5 of an herbicide. The présent invention more particularly relates to an agrochemical composition for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide using non-ionic surfactants and electrolytes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Weeds are among the crop pests and they reduce crop économie yield by 10 to 15% yearly, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Mean while, weeds are also the hosts of various crop pests and pathogens. Herbicides with different sites of action are by far the most effective weed control tools developed, killing 90 to 99% of the weeds targeted. Undesirable végétation, which inhibits crop growth, is a constantly recuning problem in agriculture. To solvc this problem, researchers arc trying to produce an extensive variety of Chemicals and Chemical formulations effective in the control of such undesirable growth. Modem herbicides, widely classified as pre- and post-emergent herbicides hâve been used in the world, with significant contributions to an increased crop yield and food quality. While pre-emergent herbicides work to prevent weeds from ever growing, post-emergent herbicides work on weeds that hâve already grown. The foliar application and the application through soil defines the nature of herbicide action.

Leaves are the primary sites of entry for most foliar-applied herbicides. The process that drives herbicide absorption through leaf is simple diffusion followed by pénétration and 25 translocation. When the spray droplet lands on the leaf surface it places a high concentration of the Chemical on the leaf surface. Chemicals move from areas of high concentration to low concentration, thus as soon as the spray droplet contacts the leaf, absorption of the Chemical begins.

To enter the leaf, herbicides must first penetrate lhe waxy cuticle (primary barrier to absorption) or other specialized cells on the leaf surface. The cuticle is a layer of overlapping waxy platelets. The cuticle covers the above ground portion of the plant and prevents water and nutrient losses from the plant. As well as protecting the plant front internai losses, the cuticle also prevents some Chemicals from entering the plant although others may move ihrough with relative ease. The variability in Chemical pénétration is a resuit of the Chemical makeup of the cuticle.

Guard cells around stomates, cells surrounding hairs, and cells overlying veins are also 5 responsible for herbicide absorption. Stomata pénétration is generally more rapid than cuticular pénétration. The stomata are minute pores on the surface of leaves that allow gas exchange between the internai and extemal environment. Stomata opening and closure is regulated by the plant and can be affected by light, heat, wind, Chemicals and other factors. The degree of stomatal entry by an herbicide is dépendent on the number and size of the 10 stomata, whether they are open or closed, and on the surface tension of the herbicide. Larger and more numerous stomata allow faster foliar uptake and closed stomata exclude liquids and gases. Chemicals or sprays with high surface tensions (like water) enter the stomata less rapidly than those with low surface tensions.

Stomatal movements are brought about by changes in the turgor pressure of the guard cells which resuit from fluxes of cations. The principal route of cation entry during stomatal opening appears to be via a cation channel which has selectivity for Li* > Na⁺ > Cs⁺ > K⁺ > Rb⁺. The ionic responses of stomata and the different monovalent cations supports stomatal opening and hence can be utilized as an entry to the herbicides.

Surfactants are expected to further improve the bioefficacy of herbicides. Surfactants are eithcr mixcd within the formulation of hcrbicidally active ingrédient or supplied separateiy as an adjuvant to be sprayed along with the formulation. Surfactants may also be applied as tank mix partner or sprayed before herbicide application as wetting/ sticking agent. Surfactants 25 are included within the formulation due to various purposes e.g. it may altcr the physical characteristics of the spray solution by acting as compatibility agents, buffering agents, antifoam agents, spreading agent, sticking agents and drift control agents. Sometimes, they enhancc postemergence herbicide performance b y incrcasing herbicide absorption into plant tissue, provides rain fastness, decreases photodegradation of the herbicide. Surfactants 30 primarily reduces the surface tension between the spray droplet and the leaf surface.

Surfactants are broadly classified as non-ionic, anionîc, cationic, and amphotcric surfactants.

For the reasons given, there is a need for an agrochemical solution which permit the quick entry of herbicides in the plant for the desired action by developing a stable composition, these compositions being highly active and promoting an increase in the uptake of systemic active ingrédients, and allowing combinability with surfactants and electrolyte ingrédients, and having the propertîes that are advantageous from an applications standpoint, such as, for example, good storage stability and uniform and high biological activity. It would therefore be idéal to use non-ionic surfactants along with electrolytes in order to enhance stomatai pénétration.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION:

Accordingly, it is a primary object of the présent invention to provide an agrochemical composition having enhanced herbicidal action.

Another object of the présent invention is to provide an agrochemical composition comprising herbicide, non-ionic surfactant and electrolyte, said composition has an enhanced herbicidal action.

Yet another object of the présent invention is to provide a process for preparing an agrochemical composition comprising herbicide, non-ionic surfactant and electrolyte.

Still another object of the présent invention is to provide a method of controlling undesirable végétation by using an agrochemical composition comprising herbicide, non-ionic surfactant and electrolyte.

Additional objects and advantagcs of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in pari will be obvious from the description, or may be leamed by practice of the invention, the objects and advantages being realized and attained b y means of the methods, processes, and improvements disclosed in the présent invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:

In an aspect of the invention, an agrochemical composition for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide comprises:

a) at least one herbicide, its sait, isomer or dérivative;

b) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and

c) at least one electrolyte.

In another aspect of the présent invention, an agrochemical composition for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide comprises:

a) at least one herbicide, its sait, isomer or dérivative;

b) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and

c) at least one electrolyte;

wherein electrolyte is selected from alkali or alkaline earth métal salts.

a) at least one herbicide, its sait, isomer or dérivative;

b) at least one non-ionic surfactant;

c) at least one electrolyte; and

d) an anionic surfactant, wherein electrolyte is selected from alkali or alkaline earth métal salts.

In yet another aspect of the présent invention, a method of controlling undesirable plants, said method comprises applying to the plants or to their locus an herbicidally effective amount of an agrochemical composition comprising at least one herbicide, its sait, isomer or dérivative ; at least one non-ionic surfactant; and at least one electrolyte for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide.

In another aspect of the présent invention, use of an agrochemical composition comprising at least one herbicide, its sait, isomer or dérivative; at least one non-ionic surfactant; and at least one electrolyte for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide according to the présent invention.

In another aspect of the présent invention, a kit comprising agrochemical composition comprising at least one herbicide, its sait, isomer or dérivative; at least one non-ionic surfactant; and at least onc electrolyte for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide according to the présent invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Inventors of the présent invention surprisingly found that co-application of an electrolyte and non-ionic surfactant with at least one herbicide results in fast and better and in some cases long-lasting control of undesirable plant growth. Inventors of the présent invention surprisingly observed that upon foliar application of an agrochemical composition of the présent invention, the electrolyte dissociâtes into free ions and; non-ionic surfactants facilitate passage of free ions through root and shoot transport System. This in-lum results into higher concentration of free ions in the stomatal cell’s intrinsîc environment. The higher concentration of free ions triggers opening of stomata. The opened stomata facilitate efficient uptake of herbicide from leaves surface. This leads to more effective and fast control of undesirable végétation as compared to the compositions without electrolyte and non-ionic surfactant combinations.

The présent invention results into an agrochemical composition which is herbicidally 10 effective due to enhanced uptake of herbicide through stomatal opening.

The combination of electrolyte and non-ionic surfactants in the présent invention enhances herbicidal effect through open stomata and leads to more quick and effective control of undesirable végétation.

The term herbicidally effective amount is that quantity of herbicide(s), when applied, will provide the required control of weeds. The sélection of the proper quantity to be applied, however, is within the expertise of one skilled in the art.

It must be noted that, as used in this spécification, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictâtes otherwise. The terms “preferred” and “preferably” refer to embodiments of the invention that may afford certain benefits, under certain circumstances.

Therefore, according to an embodiment of the présent invention, an agrochemical composition for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide comprises:

a) at least one herbicide, its sait, isomer or dérivative;

b) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and

c) at least one electrolyte.

According to another embodiment of the présent invention, an agrochemical composition for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide comprises:

a) at least one herbicide, its sait, isomer or dérivative;

b) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and

c) at least one electrolyte, wherein electrolytes are selected from alkali or alkaline earth métal salts.

According to another embodiment of the présent invention, an agrochemical composition 5 comprises an herbicide, its sait or dérivative.

According to another embodiment of the présent invention, an agrochemical composition comprises of an herbicide selected from one or more of

a) organophosphorous herbicides including glyphosate and glufosinate;

b) nitrophenyl ether compounds including oxyfluorfen and fomesafen;

c) aryloxyphenoxypropionic herbicides including haloxyfop, clodinafop and quizalofop;

d) chloroacetanilide herbicides including metolachlor, s-metolachlor, acetolachlor and pretilachlor;

e) sulfonylurea herbicides including metsulfuron and bensulfuron;

f) imidazolinone herbicides including imazapyr and imazethapyr; and salts, isomers and dérivatives of any of them.

According to another embodiment of the présent invention, an agrochemical composition comprises of glufosinate in the form of its salts, isomers, mixture of isomers or dérivatives.

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, glufosinate is selected from its lower alkyl esters thereof or salts with acids or bases such as its hydrochloride sait, monosodium sait, disodium sait, monopotassium sait, dipotassium sait, ammonium sait, — NH3(CH3)+ sait, —NH2(CH3)2+ sait, —NH(CH3)3+ sait, —NH(CH3)2(C2H4OH)+ sait, — 25 NH2(CH3)(C2H4OH)+ sait, or its methyl ester, ethyl ester, propyl ester or butyl ester.

In another embodiment of the présent invention the composition comprises a water-soluble inorganic or organic sait of glufosinate, preferably ammonium sait of glufosinate.

According to another embodiment, an agrochemical composition comprises of D-glufosinate or its salts.

According to another embodiment, an agrochemical composition comprises of L-glufosinate or its salts.

According to another embodiment, an agrochemicaï composition comprises of L-glufosinate salis with ammonium, potassium, sodium ions and the like,

According to another embodiment, an agrochemicaï composition comprises of L-glufosinate ammonium.

In another embodiment herbicide is glyphosate isopropyl ammonium.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the agrochemicaï composition comprises from about 0.1% to about 90% w/w and preferably from about 1% to about 70% w/w herbicide of the total weight of the herbicidal composition.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the agrochemicaï composition 15 comprises [rom about 10% to about 50% w/w herbicide of the total weight of the herbicidal composition.

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, the agrochemicaï composition comprises from about 0.1% to about 90% w/w and preferably from about 1% to about 70% 20 w/w glufosinate or its sait, isomer or dérivative of the total weight of the herbicidal composition.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the agrochemicaï composition comprises from about 10% to about 50% w/w glufosinate or its sait, isomer or dérivative of 25 the total weight of the herbicidal composition.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the agrochemicaï composition comprises from about 70% to about 90% L-glufosinate of the total weight of the herbicidal composition.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an agrochemicaï composition for improving the cffectivcness of an herbicide comprises of at least one non-ionic surfactant.

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, non-ionic surfactant is selected from one or more of alcohol ethoxylate, alkylpoiyglucoside, alkylamine oxide, alkyl glucamide, fatty acid methyl ester, sorbitan fatty acid ester and ethoxylated sorbitan ester, ethoxylated alkylphenol, ethoxylated tristyrylphenol and alkyl amide.

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, non-ionic surfactant from alcohol ethoxylates type are selected from one or more of C8-20 ethoxylated alcohols such as Tomadol 1-5 (11 carbon 5 mole) linear alcohol ethoxylated, Tomadol 1-7 (11 carbon 7 mole) linear alcohol ethoxylated, Surfonic L12-6 (12 carbon 6 mole) linear alcohol ethoxylated, Surfonic DDA6 (6 mole) branched alcohol ethoxylate, Surfonic TDA6 (6 mole) tridecyl alcohol branched alcohol ethoxylate, Surfonic OP-70 7 mole octylphenol ethoxylated, Tergitol NP-6 (6 mole) nonylphenol ethoxylated, Trylox 5902 (16 mole) castor oil ethoxylated fatty acids, Span 80 sorbitan laurate, Tween 80/polysorbate 80 sorbitan oleate and Surfonic L24-5 (24 carbon 5 mole) linear alcohol ethoxylated linear alcohol.

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, alkylpolyglucoside type non-ionic surfactants are selected from one or more of alkylpolyglucosides containing an alkyl group having 6 to 30 carbon atoms and preferably 8 to 16 carbon atoms, and containing a ghicoside group preferably comprising 1.2 to 3 glucoside units. The alkylpolyglucosides may be chosen for example from decylglucoside (C9-C11 alkyl-glucoside) such as the product marketed under the name Mydol 10® by Kao Chemicals or Plantacare 2000 UP® by the Cognis), caprylyl / capryl glucoside (Plantacare KE 3711® by Cognis), laurylglucoside (Plantacare 1200 UP® by Cognis), cocoglucoside (Plantacare 818 UP® by Cognis), caprylylglucoside (Plantacare 810 UP® by Cognis), and their mixtures.

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, non-ionic surfactant from alkylamine oxide type is selected from one or more of alkyl N, N- di methylamine N-oxide type surfactant wherein the alkyl group is a Cg-C^o carbon chain alkyl group. Examples of (CgC20)alkyl dimethylamine N-oxide include decyl-, dodecyl, tetradecyl-, pentadecyl-, and hcxadecyl N,N- dimethylamine oxides such as decylamine oxide, myristylamine/dimethylamine oxide, Dodecyldimethylamine oxide.

According to preferred embodiment of the présent invention, alkylamine oxide is decylamine oxide.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, non-ionic surfactant from alkylglucamide type is selected from one or more of D-Glucitol, l-deoxy-l-(methylamino),N-C8-10 acyl derivs, N-methyl-N-octanoyl/decanoylglucamine, Capryloyl/Caproyl Methyl Glucamide, dodecyl-N-methylgluc amide, dodecyltetradecyl-N-methylglucamide, and cetylstearyl-N-methylglucamide.

According to preferred embodiment of the present invention, the alkylglucamide is DGlucitol, l-deoxy-l-(methylamino)-,N-C8-10 acyl derivs.

ID According to an embodiment of the present invention, non-ionic surfactant from sorbitan fatty acid ester type is selected from one or more of polysorbate 20, polysorbate 60, polysorbate 65, and polysorbate 80. Polysorbate 20, 60, 65 and 80 utilize lauric, stéarate (mono), stéarate (tri) and oleate, respectively, for the fatty acid portion of the molécule.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the agrochemical composition comprises from about 0.1% to about 50% w/w and preferably from about 1% to about 40% w/w non-ionic surfactants of the total weight of the herbicidal composition.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the agrochemical composition comprises from about 5% to about 30% w/w non-ionic surfactants of the total weight of the 20 herbicidal composition.

According to another embodiment of the présent invention, an agrochemical composition for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide comprises of at least one electrolyte.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, an agrochemical composition for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide comprises of at least one electrolyte selected from one or more of alkali and alkaüne earth métal salts thereof.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, an agrochemical composition for 30 improving the effectiveness of an herbicide comprises of at least one electrolyte selected from one or more of inorganic salts of alkali and alkalinc earth métal.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, alkali or alkaline earth métal based electrolyte is selected from one or more of magnésium chloride, magnésium sulfate, potassium chloride, potassium sulfate, potassium carbonate, sodium chloride, sodium carbonate, sodium chlorate, sodium nitrate, sodium sulfate, calcium chloride, calcium carbonate and calcium nitrate.

According to another embodiment of the présent invention, alkali or alkaline earth metalsbased electrolyte is selected from one or more of magnésium chloride, magnésium sulfate, potassium chloride, sodium chloride and sodium nitrate.

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, the agrochemical composition 10 comprises from about 0.01% to about 30% w/w and preferably from about 0.1% to about 20% w/w electrolyte of the total weight of the agrochemical composition.

According to a preferred embodiment of the présent invention, the agrochemical composition comprises from about 0.1% to about 10% w/w electrolyte of the total weight of the 15 agrochemical composition.

a) at least at least one herbicide, its sait, isomer or dérivative;

b) at least at least one non-ionic surfactant;

c) at least at least one electrolyte; and

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, an agrochemical composition for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide comprises of at leastat least one anionic surfactant.

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, the agrochemical composition further 30 comprises of anionic surfactant selected from one or more of linear alkylbenzene sulfonates, alkyl ester sulfonates, alkyl sulfates, alkyl alkoxy sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkyl aryl ether sulfates, alkyl napthalene sulfonates, sulfosuccinates, and taurates, as well as mixtures thereof.

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, the anionic surfactants are selected from one or more of sodium lignosulfonate, sodium dodecyl benzenesulfonate, naphthalene sulfonate condensate, ammonium lauryl sulfate, ammonium laureth sulfate, triethyl amine lauryl sulfate, triethylamine laureth sulfate, triethanolamine lauryl sulfate, triethanolamine laureth sulfate, monoethanolamine lauryl sulfate, monoethanolamine laureth sulfate, diethanolamine lauryl sulfate, diethanolamine laureth sulfate, lauric monoglyceride sodium sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate (also known as sodium dodecyl sulfate), sodium laureth sulfate (sodium lauryl ether sulfate), potassium lauryl sulfate, potassium laureth sulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate, sodium cocyl sulfate, sodium trideceth sulfate, sodium tridecyl sulfate, ammonium trideceth sulfate, ammonium tridecyl sulfate, potassium lauryl sulfate, monoethanolamine cocyl sulfate and sodium tridecyl benzene sulfonate.

According to preferred embodiment of the présent invention, the anionic surfactant is selected from one or more of sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, sodium dodecyl benzenesulfonate and naphthalene sulfonate condensate.

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, the agrochemical composition comprises from about 0.1% to about 50% w/w and preferably from about 1% to about 40% w/w anionic surfactants of the total weight of the herbicidal composition.

According to a prefeired embodiment of the présent invention, the agrochemical composition comprises from about 5% to about 30% w/w anionic surfactants of the total weight of the herbicidal composition.

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, an agrochemical composition for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide may further comprise- one or more herbicides.

Examples of herbicides which may be used in combination with glufosinate in accordance with the présent invention include herbicides or their salts such as lactofen, fomesafen, oxyflurofen and their salts, Pyrimidinyloxybenzoic analogue herbicides such as pyrithiobac sodium, bispyribac sodium, bilanafos and their salts, bialaphos and its salts; chloroacetanilide herbicide such as acctolachlor, prctilachlor, metolachlor, Bipyridinium herbicides such as paraquat and diquat and salts thereof; aryloxyphenoxyacetic acid herbicide such as clodinafop, haloxyfop and their dérivatives; aryloxyalkanoic acid herbicides such as 2, 4-D and its salts, MCPA and its salts, MCPB and its salts; Pyridine herbicides such as triclopyr, picloram, aminopyralid and salts thereof; Aromatic herbicides such as dicamba, 2,3,6-TBA, tricamba and their salts; Pyridinecarboxylic acid herbicides such as clopyrahd; Imidazolinones selected from imazameth, imazamethabenz, imazamox, imazapic, imazapyr, imazaquin, imazethapyr or mixtures of such herbicides or salts thereof.

Accordîng to an embodiment of the present invention, the agrochemical composition may optionally comprise further customary formulating assistants such as solvents, înert materials, such as stickers, wetters, bînders, stabilizers, dispersants, emulsifiers, pénétrants, preservatives, fillcrs, carriers and colorants, and pH modifiers (buffers, acids and bases) or viscosity modifiers (e.g., thickeners), and optionally also defoamers.

Accordîng to an embodiment of the present invention, the agrochemical composition comprises polar or nonpolar organic solvents or polar or nonpolar inorganîc solvents or mixtures thereof.

Non-limiting examples of nonpolar solvents accordîng to the present invention include aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbons, such as minerai oils or toluene, xylenes, and naphthalene dérivatives, halogenated aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbons such as methylene chloride or chlorobenzene, oils, plant-based oils such as corn germ oil and rapeseed oil, for example, or oil dérivatives such as rapeseed oil methyl ester.

Non-limiting examples of polar solvents accordîng to the present invention include polar ethers such as tetrahydrofuran (THF), dioxanc, alkylene glycol monoalkyi and dialkyl ethers such as, for example, propylene glycol monomethyl ether, propylene glycol monoethyl ether, ethylene glycol monomethyl ether or monoethyl ether, ethylene glycol butyi ether (ccllosolvc); alcohols such as methanol, éthanol, n- and isopropanol, n-, iso-, tert-and 2buianol; digiyme and letraglyme; amides such as dimethylformamide (DMF), dimethylacetamide, dimethylcaprylamide, dimethylcapramide and N-alkylpyrrolidones; kctoncs such as acctone; fatty acid based methyl ester (methyl palmitatc/oleate), esters based on glycerol and carboxylic acids, such as glycerol mono-, di-and triacetate; lactams; lactate esters having chain lengths of 1 to 10 C atoms in the ester moiety; carbonic diesters; nitriles such as acctonitrilc, propionîtrilc, butyronitrile, and benzonitrile; sulfoxides and sulfones such as dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), sulfolane and polycarbonate solvents.

™ Suitable binders are selected from one or more of polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyethylene oxide, polyethoxylated fatty acids, polyethoxylated alcohols, natural gums, lignosulphonate and the like.

Suitable stabilizers are selected from one or more of hexamelhylenetetramine, formaldéhyde, orthoesters and epoxides.

Suitable defoamers are selected from one or more of fatty acid alkyl ester alkoxylates, organopolysiloxanes such as polydimethylsiloxanes and mixtures thereof with microfine, 10 optionally silanized silica, perfluoroalkylphosphonates, perfluoroalkylphosphinates, paraffins, waxes and microcrystalline waxes and mixtures thereof with silanized silica or mixtures of different foam inhibitors.

Suitable preservatives are selected from one or more organic acids and their esters, examples 15 being ascorbic acid, ascorbyl palmitate, sorbate, benzoic acid, methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, propyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, propionates, phénol, 2-phenyl phenate, l,2-benzisothiazolin-3one, formaldéhyde, sulfurous acid, and salts thereof.

Suitable drift retardants are selected from one or more water-soluble polymers, as for 20 example polyacrylamides, acrylamide/acrylic acid polymers, sodium polyacrylate, carboxy methylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, methyicellulose, polysaccharides, and natural and synthetic guar gum. It is also possible, furthermore, for certain émulsions or selfemulsifying Systems to be used as drift retardants.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the agrochemicaï composition comprises from about 0.01% to about 50% w/w and preferably from about 1% to about 40% w/w customary formulating assistants of the total weight of the agrochemicaï composition.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the agrochemicaï composition 30 comprises from about 5% to about 30% w/w customary formulating assistants of the total weight of the agrochemicaï composition.

In an embodiment of the present invention, a stable agrochemicaï composition comprises from about 0.1% to about 90% w/w herbicide, from about 0.1% to about 50% w/w non-ionic surfactant, front about 0.01% to about 30% w/w electrolyte of the total weight of the agrochemical composition.

In an embodiment of the présent invention, a stable agrochemical composition comprises 5 from about 1% to about 70% w/w herbicide, from about 1% to about 40% w/w non-ionic surfactant, from about 0. 1% to about 20% w/w electrolyte of the total weight of the agrochemical composition.

In a preferred embodiment of the présent invention, a stable agrochemical composition 10 comprises from about 10% to about 50% w/w herbicide, from about 1% to about 30% w/w non-ionic surfactant, from about 0.1 % to about 10% w/w electrolyte of the total weight of the agrochemical composition.

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, a stable agrochemical composition 15 comprising a herbicide, non-ionic surfactant and electrolyte may be formulated as liquid formulations such as Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC), Micro Emulsion (ME), Soluble Liquid (SL), Suspension Concentrate (SC) or as solid formulations such as Wet Granules (WG), Soluble Granules (SG), Dry Flowable (DF), broadcasting granules or other suitable formulation.

In a preferred embodiment of the présent invention, a stable agrochemical composition comprises a herbicide, non-ionic surfactant and electrolyte may be formulated as soluble liquid (SL).

In a preferred embodiment of the présent invention, a stable agrochemical composition comprising from about 10% to about 50% w/w herbicide, from about 1% to about 30% w/w non-ionic surfactant, front about 0.1% to about 10% w/w electrolyte of the total weight of the agrochemical composition is formulated as soluble liquid (SL).

In another preferred embodiment of the présent invention, a stable agrochemical composition comprising from about 10% to about 50% w/w glufosinate ammonium, from about 1% to about 30% w/w alkyi glucamide, from about 1% to about 30% w/w alkyi amine oxide, from about 1% to about 30% w/w glycol ether, from about 0.1% to about 10% w/w potassium chloride of the total weight of the agrochemical composition is formulated as soluble liquid (SL).

In another preferred embodiment of the présent invention, a stable agrochemical composition comprising from about 10% to about 50% w/w herbicide, from about 1% to about 30% w/w alkyl glucamide, from about 1% to about 30% sodium lauryl ether sulfate, from about 1% to about 30% glycol ether and from about 0.1% to about 10% w/w sodium chloride of the total weight of the agrochemical composition is formulated as soluble liquid (SL).

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, the agrochemical composition for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide may be formulated in a suitable formulation using conventional process of preparing the agrochemical composition.

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, a method of controlling undesirable plants, said method comprises applying to the plants or to their locus an herbicidally effective amount of an agrochemical composition comprising at least at least one herbicide, its sait or dérivative; at least at least one non-ionic surfactant; and at least at least one electrolyte for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide.

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, a method to control undesirable plants or to influence the growth of plants, said method comprises applying to the plants or to their· locus an effective amount of agrochemical composition comprising at least at least one herbicide, its sait or derivative; at least at least one non-ionic surfactant; and at least at least one electrolyte for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide.

In an embodiment of the présent invention, a method to control undesirable plants or to influence the growth of plants, said method comprises applying to the plants or to their locus an effective amount of agrochemical composition comprising glufosinate ammonium; at least at least one non-ionic surfactant; and at least at least one electrolyte for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide.

In another aspect of the présent invention, use of an agrochemical composition comprising at least at least one herbicide, its salts and dérivatives; at least at least one non-ionic surfactant;

and al leasl at least one electrolyte for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide according to the présent invention.

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, the agrochemical composition is designed to be diluted with water (or a water-based liquid) to form the corresponding end-use agrochemical formulations, typically spray formulations.

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, the agrochemical composition requîtes a formulation which allows the active compounds to be taken up by the weeds and undesirable plants.

According to an embodiment of the présent invention, the agrochemical composition is used as the source of active agrochemical ingrédients and will typically be diluted to form end-use formulations, typically spray formulations. The dilution may be with water at from 1 to 10,000, particularly 10 to 1,000 times the tolal weight of the agrochemical composition to fonn the spray formulation. In said diluted composition, the agrochemical active concentration may be in the range from about 0.001 wt.% to about 1 wt.% of the total formulation as sprayed.

Spray formulations include ail the components which are required to apply to the plants or their environment. Spray formulations can be made up by simple dilution of agrochemical composition containing agrochemically active ingrédients (herbicide), or by mixing of the individual herbicide, or a combination of diluting an herbicide and adding further individual herbicides or mixtures of herbicides. Typically, such end use mixing is carried out in the tank from which the formulation is sprayed, or altematively in a holding tank for filling the spray tank. Such mixing and mixtures are typically termed tank mixing and tank mixtures.

In another aspect of the présent invention, a kit comprisîng agrochemical composition comprises at least at least one herbicide, its sait and dérivative; at least at least one non-ionic surfactant; and at least at least one electrolyte for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide according to the présent invention.

In one embodiment of the invention, the kits may include one or more, including ail, components that may be used to préparé an agrochemical composition. For example, kits may include active ingrédients, non-ionic surfactants and electrolyte. One or more of the components may already be combined together or pre-formulated. In those embodiments where more than two components are provided in a kit, the components may already be combined together and as such are packaged in a single container such as a vial, bottle, can, pouch, bag or canister.

In other embodiments, two or more components of a kit may be packaged separately, i. e., not pre-formulated. As such, kits may include one or more separate containers such as vials, cans, bottles, pouches, bags or canisters, each container containing a separate component for agrochemical composition.

In both forms, a component of the kit may be applied separately from or together with the further components or as a component of a combination composition according to the invention for preparing the agrochemical composition according to the invention.

In an embodiment of lhe présent invention, the agrochemical composition comprising (a) herbicide, (b) non-ionic surfactants, and (c) electrolyte, is in the form of a kit with single pack or multi pack.

In a preferred embodiment of the présent invention, the agrochemical composition comprising (a) glufosinate-ammonium, (b) non-ionic surfactants, and (c) electrolyte is in the form of a kit with single pack or multi pack.

The composition described above is herbicidally efficacious and is stable. It has been found that the anionic surfactants of the stable agrochemical composition of the présent invention provides excellent stability over time and at various températures, and even when the stable agrochemical composition undergoes shear forces for ex ample on mixing. Also, the stable agrochemical composition obtained by the proeess hâve superior suspensibilîty, better dispersibility, very low or no sédimentation and minimal particle dégradation.

Ail lhe features described herein may be combined with any of the above aspects, in any combination.

In order that the présent invention may be more readily understood, référencé will now be made, by way of example, to the following description. It will be understood that ail tests and physical properties listed hâve been determined at atmospheric pressure and room température (i.e. 25°C), unless otherwise stated herein, or unless otherwise stated in the referenced test methods and procedures.

Example 1: Préparation of Glufosinate ammonium 280 g/L Soluble Liquid (SL)

Ingrédients	Quantity (% w/w)
Glufosinate ammonium	25
Alkyl glucamide	5
Alkyl polyglucoside	3
Alkyl amine oxide	24
Glycol ether (solvent)	3
Potassium chloride	5
DM Water	Q.S.

Required quantity of water was taken into mixing vessel. 25g glufosinate ammonium was added to the mixing vessel and stirred at 25 - 40°C. 5g potassium chloride was added to the mixing vessel and continued stirring for 30 minutes. Subsequently, 5g alkyl glucamide, 3g alkyl polyglucoside, 24g alkyl amine oxide and 3g glycol ether and required quantity of water 10 was added to the vessel to obtain mixture. The mixture was then filtered and packcd in a suitable packaging.

Examples 2-14:

Examples	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	13	14
Ingrédients
	28üg/L	200g/L	150g/L
Glufosinate ammonium	25	25	25	25	1S.5	18.5	18.5	18.5	18.5	18.5	13.5	13.5
L-Glufosinate (50% aqueous solution)	-												13.5
Alkyl glucamide	5	5	5	5	6	-	-	-	-	6	5	5	5
Alkyl polyglucamide	-	-	-	-	-	8	-	-	-	-	-	-	-
Alkyl pol y glucoside	-	3	-	3	-	-	8	8	8	-	-	-
Alkyl amine oxide		24	24	24		24	24	24	24	-		-	-
Sodium lauryl ether sulfate (Alkyl ether sulfate)	24				23					23	20	20	20
Glycol ether (solvent)	3	3	3	3	4	3	3	3	3	4	3	3	3
Potassium chloride	3		3.5		5	5				5	5		5
Magnésium chloride	-	3	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-
Sodium chloride	-	-	-	3.5	-	-	-	-	-		-	-	-
Calcium chloride	-	-	-		-	-	3	-	-	-	-	-	-
Magnésium sulfate	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	3.5	-	-	-	-	-
Potassium sulfate		•	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	3		*	-

Sodium sulfate		-	-	-	-	-		-	-	-	-	-	3
DM Water	qs	qs		qs	Qs	qs	qs	Qs	qs	qs	qs	qs	qs

Example 15: Préparation of Glufosinate ammonium 500 g/Kg Dry Flowable (DF)

Ingrédients	Quantity (% w/w)
Glufosinate ammonium	50
Ethoxylated alcohol	5
Methyl Palmitate/ Oleate	10
Polyvinylpyrrolidone	2
Potassium chloride	10
DM Water	Q. S.

Glufosinate ammonium, alcohol ethoxylate, methyl palmîtate/oleate, polyvinylpyrrolidone 5 and potassium chloride were added in above mentioncd quantity and blended in a ribbon blender for 20-30 min to obtain blend. The blend was further grounded in air jet mill to oblain grounded mîx having partie le size D₁₀₀ below 30 micron. The grounded mix for then blended for 40-50 min to obtain homogeneous mixture. The homogeneous mixture was taken to préparé dough using water spray. Granules were then extruded in a granulator. The extruded 10 granules were dried on fluid bed dryer. The dried granules were passed through sieve to obtain unifonmly sized granules. Undersized and oversized granules were recycled back. Finished granules were packed in a suitable packaging.

Example 16: Préparation of Glufosinate ammonium 500 g/Kg DF

Ingrédients	Quantity (% w/w)
Glufosinate ammonium	50
Alcohol ethoxylate	6
Methyl palmitate/oleate	12
Polyvinylpyrrolidone	2
Potassium chloride	20
Hexamethylenetetramine	Q.S.

Glufosinate ammonium, alcohol ethoxylate, methyl palmîtate/oleate, polyvinylpyrrolidone, potassium chloride and hexamethylenetetramine were added in a given ratio shown above and the composition was prepared as per lhe process of Example 15.

Example 17: Préparation of Glufosinate ammonium 140 and Glyphosate 180g/L Soluble

Liquid (SL)

Ingrédients	Amount (% w/w)
Glufosinate ammonium	14.5
Glyphosate sait	18.2
Propylene glycol	0.5
Alkyi glucamide	4.0
Sodium lauryl ether sulfate	20.0
Potassium chloride	5.0
Water	Q.S.

Glufosinate ammonium, glyphosate sali, propylene glycol, alkyi glucamide, sodium lauryl ether sulfate and potassium chloride were mixed in water in a given ratio shown above and 10 the composition was prepared as per the process of Example 1.

Comparative Examples 18-21

Example 18: Préparation of Glufosinate ammonium 280 g/L Soluble Liquid (SL)

Ingrédients	Quantity (% w/w)
Glufosinate ammonium	25
Alkyi glucamide	5
Alkyi polyglucoside	3
Alkyi amine oxide	24
Glycol ether (solvent)	3
DM Water	Q.S.

Glufosinate ammonium, alkyi glucamide, alkyi polyglucoside, alkyi amine oxide and glycol ether were mixed in water in a given ratio shown above and the composition was prepared as per the process of Example 1.

Example 19: Préparation of Glufosinate ammonium 200 g/L Soluble Liquid (SL)

Ingrédients	Quantity (% w/w)
Glufosinate ammonium	18.5
Alkyl glucamide	8
Alkyl amine oxide	24
Glycol ether (solvent)	3
DM Water	Q.S

Glufosinatc ammonium, alkyl glucamide, alkyl amine oxide and glycol ether were mixed in 5 water in a given ratio shown above and the composition was prepared as per the process of Example L

Example 20: Préparation of Glufosinate ammonium 200 g/L Soluble Liquid (SL)

Ingrédients	Quantity (% w/w)
Glufosinate ammonium	18.5
Alkyl glucamide	6
Sodium lauryl ether sulfate	23
Glycol ether (solvent)	4
DM Water	Q.S

Glufosinate ammonium, alkyl glucamide, sodium lauryl ether sulfate, glycol ether and potassium chloride were mixed in water in a given ratio shown above and the composition was prepared as per the process of Example 1.

Example 21: Préparation of Glufosinate ammonium 150 g/L Soluble Liquid (SL)

Ingrédients	Quantity (% w/w)
Glufosinate ammonium	13.5
Alkyl glucamide	5
Sodium lauryl ether sulfate	20
Glycol ether (solvent)	3
DM Water	Q.S.

Glufosinate ammonium, alkyl glucamide, sodium lauryl ether sulfate and glycol ether were mixed in water in a given ratio shown above and the composition was prepared as per the process of Example 1.

Example 22: Préparation of Glyphosate Isopropyl ammonium 20% w/w SL

Ingrédients	Quantity (% w/w)
Glyphosate Isopropyl ammonium	20
Alkyl glucamide	6
Sodium lauryl ether sulfate	23
Glycol ether (solvent)	4
Potassium chloride	5
DM Water	Q.S

Glyphosate iropropyl ammonium, alkyl glucamide, sodium lauryl ether sulfate, potassium chloride and glycol ether were mixed in water in a given ratio shown above and the composition was prepared as per the process of Example 1.

Example 23: Préparation of Glyphosate Isopropyl ammonium 20% w/w SL

Ingrédients	Quantity (% w/w)
Glyphosate Isopropyl ammonium	20
Alkyl polyglucoside	8
Alkyl amine oxide	24
Glycol ether (solvent)	3
Calcium chloride	3
DM Water	Q.S

Glyphosate isopropyl ammonium, alkyl polygluccoside, alkyl amine oxide, glycol ether and calcium chloride were mixed in water in a given ratio shown above and the composition was prepared as per the process of Example 1.

Bio-efficacy data:

Compositions were diluted with water to give a water application rate of 500 L/ha at a typical application rate for glufosinate (300-1000 g/ha) on application to non-crop and crop lands containing a spectrum of mono- and dicotyledonous weed plants which had emerged under natural conditions.

Details of experiment- I:

a) Treatments: 18

b) Application dose: 908 gm ai/Ha

c) Nozzle type: Fiat Fan

d) Plot size: 16 sq.m (4m X 4m)

e) Test Crop; - Non-crop Land

f) Time of application: Post-emergence

g) Average température during application: Minimum 15 °C and Maximum 30 °C

h) Application volume: 500 L/Ha of water

i) Observation days: 14 days after application

j) Treatment details: This study was performed on non-crop land at Vapi, Gujarat, India where the land was predominantly covered by weed plants such as grasses, commelina spp., cyprus spp. and trianthema spp. The study was intended to evaluate the efficiency of an agrochemical composition according to the présent invention and to understand the rôle of electrolyte and non-ionic .surfactant in lhe herbicidal composition.

Two compositions (Example-1 and Example-18) of 280g/L Gf-ammonium were tested against selected wecds. Weed plants were evaluated on 14* day after treatment (Table 1 and Figure 1), at which time-point, significantly more bum down effect was observed in régions treated with an agrochemical composition of Example-1 comprising both electrolyte and nonionic surfactant in comparison to an agrochemical composition of Example-18 in which electrolyte was not présent. Composition of Example-18 showed 75% control of grass spp., 33% control of commelina spp., 45% control of cyprus spp., and 93% control of trianthema spp. wherein, composition of Example-1 found better in ail the selected weeds by controlling around 83% control of grass spp., 40% control of commelina spp., 57% control of cyprus spp. and 98% control of trianthema spp.

Two compositions (Example-6 and Example-19) of 200g/L Gf-ammonium were tested against selected weeds. Weed plants were evaluated on 14* day after treatment (Table 1 and Figure 1), at which time-point, significantly more burn down effect was observed in régions treated with an agrochemical composition of Example-6 comprising both electrolyte and nonionic surfactant in comparison to an agrochemical composition of Example-l9 in which electrolyte was not présent. Composition of Example-19 showed 67% control of grass spp., 33% control of commelina spp., 37% control of cyprus spp., and 90% control of trianthema spp. wherein, composition of Example-6 found better in ail the selected weeds by controlling around 88% control of grass spp., 48% control of commelina spp., 62% control of cyprus spp. and 98% control of trianthema spp.

Table 1

Compositions	Percent weed control at 14 DAT
Grass	Commelina spp.	Cyprus spp.	Trianthema spp-
Ex ample 1	83.00	40.00	57.00	98.00
Example 18	75.00	33.00	45.00	93.00
Example 6	88.00	48.00	62.00	98.00
Example 19	67.00	33.00	37.00	90.00

Some more weeds were selected to evaluate the efficacy of the compositions according to the présent invention.

Details of experiment-Π:

a) Treatments: 18

b) Application dose: 908 gm ai/Ha

c) Nozzle type: Fiat Fan

d) Plot size: 9.2 m X 3.2 m

e) Test Crop: - Non-crop Land

f) Time of application: Post-emergence

g) Average température during application: Minimum 15 °C and Maximum 30 °C

h) Application volume; 450 g a.i/ha of water

i) Observation days: 14 days after application

Treatment details: This study was performed on grape vineyards at Nashik, Maharashtra, India where the vineyards were predominantly covered by weed plants such as amaranthus viridis, euphorbia hypericifolia, dinebra sp and euphorbia microphylla. The study was întended to evaluate the efficiency of an agrochemical composition according to the présent invention and to understand the rôle of electrolyte and non-ionic surfactant in the herbicidal composition.

Two compositions (Example-12 and Example-20) of 150g/L Gf-ammonium were tested 5 against selected weeds. Weed plants were evaluated on 14* day after treatment (Table 2 and

Figure 2), at which time-point, significantly more burn down effect was observed in régions treated with an agrochemical composition of Example-12 comprisîng both electrolyte and non-ionic surfactant in comparison to an agrochemical composition of Example-21 in which electrolyte was not présent. Composition of Example-20 showed 82.5% control of 10 amaranthus viridis, 85% control of euphorbia hypericifolia, 82.5% control of dinebra spp., and 77.5% control of euphorbia microphylla wherein, composition of Example-12 found better in ail the selected weeds by controlling around 87.5% control of amaranthus viridis., 90% control of euphorbia hypericifolia., 87.5% control of dinebra spp. and 87.5% control of euphorbia microphylla.

Table 2

Compositions	Percent weed control at 12 DAT
Amaranthus viridis	Euphorbia hypericifolia	Dinebra spp	Euphorbia microphylla
Example 12	87.50	90.00	87.50	87.50
Example 20	82.50	85.00	82.50	77.50

Evaluation of the effect after two weeks revealed that the green parts of the weed plants had died and therefore that control of the weed plants was effective. Therefore, it was concluded 20 that the agrochemical composition for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide comprisîng electrolyte and non-ionic surfactant showed far more superior effect on commonly found weeds of non-crop lands as well as crop lands viz grasses, commelina spc., cyprus spc., triantham spc., amaranthus viridis, euphorbia hypericifolia, dinebra spp., and euphorbia microphylla weeds than when treated with the compositions without electrolyte and non-ionic 25 surfactant or with the compositions having either of electrolyte or non-ionic surfactant.

The agrochemical composition for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide developed according to the présent invention resulted into an efficacîous composition. The combination of non-ionic surfactant and an electrolyte succès sfully improved absorption and uptake of herbicide which resulted into an increased efficacy. The careful sélection of the non-ionic surfactant and electrolyte in formulating an agrochemical composition provided excellent efficacy onto crops. It is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the details of the above embodiments, which are described by way of example only. Many variations are possible.

Claims

1. An agrochemical composition for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide comprising: a) at least one herbicide, its sait, isomer or dérivative;

b) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and

c) al least one electrolyte.

2. The agrochemical composition as claimed in claim 1 wherein herbicide is selected from one or more of

a) organophosphorous herbicides including glyphosate and glufosinate;

b) nitrophenyl ether compounds including oxyfluorfon and fomesafen;

c) aryloxyphenoxypiOpionic herbicides including haloxyfop, clodinafop and quizalofop;

e) sulfonylurea herbicides including metsulfuron and bensulfuron;

3. The agrochemical composition as claimed in claim 1 wherein herbicide is glufosinate, its sait, isomer or dérivative.

4. The agrochemical composition as claimed in claim 3 wherein glufosinate, its sait, isomer or dérivative is selected from one or more of glufosinate ammonium, glufosinate sodium, d-glufosinate and l-glufosinate.

5. The agrochemical composition as claimed in claim 1 wherein herbicide is glyphosate, its sait or dérivative.

6. The agrochemical composition as claimed in claim 5 wherein glyphosate sali is glyphosate isopropyl ammonium.

7. The agrochemical composition as claimed in claim 1 wherein non-ionic surfactant is selected from one or more of alcohol ethoxylate, alkylpolyglucoside, alkylamine oxide, alkyl glucamide. fatty acid methyl ester, sorbitan ester and ethoxylated sorbitan ester, ethoxylated alkylphenol, ethoxylated tristyrylphenol and alkyl amide.

8. The agrochemical composition as claimed in claim 7 wherein non-ionic surfactant is selected from one or more of d-glucitol, l-deoxy-l-(methylamino)-,N-C8-10 acyl derivs; capryloyl/caproyl methyl glucamide, polysorbate 80, nonylphenol ethoxylated, castor oil ethoxylated fatty acids, decylglucoside (C9-11 alkyl polyglucoside), caprylyl/capryl glucoside, cocoglucoside, decylamine oxide and myristylamine/dimethylamine oxide.

9. The agrochemical composition as claimed in claim 1 wherein an electrolyte is selected from an alkali or alkaline earth métal sait.

10. The agrochemical composition as claimed in claim 9 wherein an electrolyte is selected from one or more of magnésium chloride, magnésium sulfate, potassium chloride, potassium sulfate, sodium chloride, sodium carbonate, sodium chlorate, sodium nitrate, sodium sulfate, calcium chloride, calcium carbonate and calcium nitrate.

11. The agrochemical composition as claimed in claim 1 further comprising anionic surfactant selected one or more of linear alkylbenzene sulfonates, alkyl ester sulfonates, alkyl sulfates, alkyl alkoxy sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkyl aryl ether sulfates, alkyl napthalene sulfonates, sulfosuccinates, and taurates, as well as mixtures thereof, preferably sodium laurcth sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lignosulfonate, sodium dodccyl benzenesulfonate and naphthalene sulfonate condensate.

12. A method of controlling undesirablc plants, said method comprising applying to the plants or to their locus, an herbicidally effective amount of an agrochemical composition comprising at least one herbicide, its sait, isomer or dérivative; at least one non-ionic surfactant; and at least one electrolyte for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide.

13. The method of controlling (indésirable plants as claimed in claim 13 wherein said method comprises applying to the plants or to their locus an herbicidally effective amount of an agrochemical composition comprising at least glufosinate, its sait or dérivative; al least one non-ionic surfactant; and at least one electrolyte for improving the effectiveness of an herbicide.