A herbicidal composition

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a herbicidal composition and in particular, a granular composition comprising at least one N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide, at least one isoxazole herbicide, at least one triazinone herbicide and at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient. The present disclosure also relates to a method for controlling weeds using the herbicidal composition thereof.

Description

[0001] A HERBICIDAL COMPOSITION

[0002] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE:

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a herbicidal composition and in particular, a granular composition comprising at least one N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide, at least one isoxazole herbicide and at least one triazinone herbicide. The present disclosure also relates to a method for controlling weeds using the herbicidal composition thereof.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE:

[0005] Herbicides are chemical substances, which are used to specifically control the weeds. The mode of action for herbicides is a biochemical or physical mechanism, which it uses to control unwanted plants or weeds. However, there are certain species of unwanted plants / weeds or groups of unwanted plants / weeds, which are not susceptible to certain herbicides. This may be because either the herbicides use different biochemical pathways, or the herbicides have slightly different enzymes. Therefore, herbicides are often chosen for use based on their mode of action. In situations, when one herbicide is ineffective, another herbicide with a different mode of action may provide better results, thereby a combination of two or more herbicides proves to be more effective in such situations.

[0006] Additionally, compositions comprising two or more herbicides have been used for decades for weed control, however, they have some disadvantages. They have none / insufficient herbicidal activity against specific weeds, the spectrum of weeds which can be controlled with the herbicides is not broad enough, the selectivity of herbicides and their compatibility with crops is too low, thereby causing unwanted damage and / or reduced harvest yields of the crops, the initial herbicidal activity is not acceptable or not strong enough and / or the herbicidal activity does not last long enough. For these reasons, there is a constant need to develop herbicidal compositions comprising two or more herbicides, which overcome the aforementioned disadvantages. Sulfentrazone is a protoporphyrinogen oxidase inhibitor and a selective soil-applied herbicide for control of annual broadleaf weeds in a variety of crops including soybeans, sunflowers, dry beans, and dry peas. It also suppresses some grass weeds however additional control measures are usually required. It can be applied early preplant, preplant incorporated, or preemergence and is a component in several preemergence herbicide premixes. However, it is known to cause injury to plants if applied post-emergence.

[0007] Isoxaflutole is a synthetic compound of the isoxazole group of chemicals used as a herbicide. The mode of action of isoxaflutole is the inhibition of the enzyme 4- hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD), thereby inhibiting pigment formation, and causing bleaching of the developing tissues of the target plants. Isoxaflutole controls a wide spectrum of grasses and broadleaf weeds by bleaching emerging or emerged weeds following herbicide uptake via the root system. Also, isoxaflutole is known to be prone to degradation in presence of moisture.

[0008] Hexazinone is an example of an atypical triazine herbicide used for control of woody plants in reforestation areas and for selective weed control in sugarcane, pineapple, and alfalfa. It is water-soluble and does not bind strongly with soil and so is of particular concern for groundwater contamination. The average half-life of hexazinone in soils is 90 days, but it can sometimes be found in runoff up to six months after application.

[0009] Furthermore, in agrochemical applications, water dispersible granules (WDG or WG), are sometimes preferred over other types of formulations due to the advantages comprising - no dust and inhalation hazard to the applicator during handling; no problem of toxicity or flammability due to solvents; easily measured and diluted; fast dispersion in water for spray applications; high loading of active ingredient; no crystal growth or sedimentation; easy and safe packaging and transportation; package disposal easier to deal with than other liquid formulations; and enhanced efficacy as granule delivery is often uniquely suited to the characteristics of target pests.

[0010] Although compositions comprising two or more herbicides in water dispersible granules have been practiced in the art, disadvantages / problems such as granule disintegration suspensibility upon dilution; homogeneity of the mixture; physical instability of such mixtures during manufacture, shelf life or dispersion during the time of application as well as long-term instability; low melting point of active ingredients; and difficulty to include excipients / adjuvants in the formulation can adversely impact the efficacy associated with the herbicidal composition. There, thus, remains a need for development of a stable herbicidal composition in water dispersible granular formulation, which addresses the aforementioned disadvantages / problems and also does not affect the efficacy associated with the herbicidal composition.

[0011] OBJECTIVES OF THE DISCLOSURE:

[0012] It is a primary objective of the present disclosure to provide a stable herbicidal composition in the form of water dispersible granules (WDG or WG).

[0013] It is another objective of the present disclosure to provide a granular composition comprising at least one N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide, at least one isoxazole herbicide and at least one triazinone herbicide, exhibiting homogeneity.

[0014] It is yet another objective of the present disclosure to provide a granular composition exhibiting enhanced stability, improved suspensibility and greater dispersibility.

[0015] It is yet another objective of the present disclosure to provide a granular composition comprising granules having particle diameter of about less than about 1000 microns. It is yet another objective of the present disclosure to provide a method for controlling weeds by using the present granular composition thereof.

[0016] SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE:

[0017] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a granular composition comprising a first component and a second component admixed in a predetermined ratio; wherein the first component comprises at least one N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide and at least one isoxazole herbicide; wherein the second component comprises at least one triazinone herbicide; and at least one agrochemically acceptable excipients.

[0018] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a process for preparation of the granular composition comprising a first component and a second component.

[0019] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides use of the granular composition for controlling weeds and achieving increased yield in the crops, by reducing the number of weeds in the crops, and improving the plant health.

[0020] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for controlling weeds, said method comprising applying to the plants or a locus thereof, the granular composition comprising a first component and a second component.

[0021] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE:

[0022] The present disclosure now will be described hereinafter, in which embodiments of the disclosure are shown. This description is not intended to be a detailed catalogue of all the different ways in which the disclosure may be implemented, or all the features that may be added to the instant disclosure. In addition, numerous variations and additions to the various embodiments suggested herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the instant disclosure, which do not depart from the instant disclosure. Hence, the following descriptions are intended to illustrate some particular embodiments of the disclosure, and not to exhaustively specify all permutations, combinations and variations thereof.

[0023] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the disclosure, suitable methods and materials are described herein.

[0024] “About” or “approximately” as used herein is inclusive of the stated value and means within an acceptable range of deviation for the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, considering the measurement in question and the error associated with measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). For example, “about” can mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±10 or ±5 of the stated value.

[0025] It is to be noted that, as used in the specification, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0026] The terms “comprising”, “having”, “including”, and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to”) unless otherwise noted. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”), is intended merely to better illustrate the disclosure and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the disclosure unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the disclosure as used herein.

[0027] As used herein, the term “agrochemical” refers to all active substances which can be used in the agrochemical field, i.e., fungicides, bactericides, insecticides, acaricides, nematicides, molluscicides, rodenticides, repellents, plant growth regulators, herbicides and safeners, and plant nutrients. As used herein, the term “agrochemically acceptable excipient” refers to substance that is non-active (i.e., not the primary active ingredient) but is safe and suitable for use in agricultural chemical formulations. These excipients serve various roles in enhancing the performance, stability, or usability of agrochemical products such as pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and fertilizers.

[0028] Subsequently, the term “herbicide” as used herein denotes a compound which controls or modifies the growth of undesired weeds / plants.

[0029] The term “herbicidally effective amount” indicates the quantity of such a compound or combination of such compounds which is capable of controlling or modifying effect on the growth of harmful plants / undesired vegetation / weeds.

[0030] As used herein the term “plant” or “crop” refers to whole plants, plant organs (e.g., leaves, stems, twigs, roots, trunks, limbs, shoots, fruits etc.), plant cells, and plant seeds. This term also encompasses plant crops such as fruits. The term “plant” may further include the propagation material thereof, which may include all the generative parts of the plant such as seeds and vegetative plant material such as cuttings and tubers, which can be used for the multiplication of the plant. This includes seeds, tubers, spores, corms, bulbs, rhizomes, sprouts basal shoots, stolon, and buds and other parts of plants, including seedlings and young plants, which are to be transplanted after germination or after emergence from soil.

[0031] As used herein, the term “plant propagation material” is understood to denote generative parts of a plant, such as seeds, vegetative material such as cuttings or tubers, roots, fruits, tubers, bulbs, rhizomes and parts of plants, germinated plants and young plants which are to be transplanted after germination or after emergence from the soil. These young plants may be protected before transplantation by a total or partial treatment by immersion. The term “locus” refers to an area of planted crops or a location where weeds occur / grow or can occur / grow and is intended to include soil, medium of growth other than soil.

[0032] The term “control” relates to a weed, includes control of the weed, as well as protecting a plant, a portion of the plant, or a plant seed from attack or invasion by said weed. Controlling effects include all deviation from natural development, for example: killing, retardation, leaf bum, albinism, dwarfism, etc.

[0033] The expression of various quantities in terms of “% w / w” means the percentage by weight of the total composition unless otherwise specified.

[0034] The terms “g a.i. / ha” as used herein denotes the concentration of the respective active ingredient in “grams” applied “per hectare” of the crop field. The terms “g ai / ha”, “g a.i. / ha” and “g / ha” may be used interchangeably.

[0035] As used herein, the term “pre-emergence” or “before emergence” refers to the time point before seedlings emerge from the ground. When any herbicide is applied at pre-emergence stage, it prevents establishment of the germinated weed seedlings. As used herein, the term “post-emergence” refers to the time point after seedlings emerge from the ground. When any herbicide is applied at post-emergence stage, it prevents growth of the germinated weed seedlings.

[0036] As used herein, the term “particle size” refers to the measure of subdivision of a solid material into particles. Particle sizes are measured in microns (p) and is usually designated as the average diameter in microns.

[0037] As used herein, the term “granular size” refers to formulations applied in the field as free-flowing granules. Granular size is measured in microns (p) and is usually designated as the particle diameter in microns. Granular products offer various advantages, including - a higher apparent specific gravity than wettable powders or water-soluble products with less bulkiness; no airborne scattering of fine powders during suspension in water to prepare spray liquids, meaning there is no danger of operators absorbing chemical agents; and easier weighing of the products.

[0038] As used herein, the term “pulverizing” refers to reduce large particles (as by crushing, beating, milling, or grinding) to small particles.

[0039] Accordingly in an embodiment, the present disclosure provides a stable herbicidal composition, particularly a stable granular composition.

[0040] In another embodiment, the granular composition is in a form of water dispersible granules (WDG or WG).

[0041] Accordingly in an embodiment, the granular composition comprises a first component, second component and at least one agrochemically acceptable excipients.

[0042] In another embodiment, the first component comprises at least one N- phenyltriazolinone herbicide and at least one isoxazole herbicide.

[0043] In another embodiment, the N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide is selected from the group comprising sulfentrazone, azafenidin, bencarbazone, carfentrazone, or combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide is sulfentrazone.

[0044] In another embodiment, the isoxazole herbicide is selected from the group comprising isoxaflutole, isoxacarbole, isoxachlortole, or combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the isoxazole herbicide is isoxaflutole.

[0045] In another preferred embodiment, the first component comprises sulfentrazone and isoxaflutole. In another embodiment, the second component comprises at least one triazinone herbicide.

[0046] In another embodiment, the triazinone herbicide is selected from the group comprising hexazinone, ametridione, amibuzin, ethiozin, isomethiozin, metamitron, metribuzin, or combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the triazinone herbicide is hexazinone.

[0047] In another preferred embodiment, the second component comprises hexazinone.

[0048] As used throughout the disclosure, the N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide or other active ingredients for example, the isoxazole herbicide and the triazinone herbicide, include their salts, esters, ethers, polymorphs including solvates and hydrates. A salt includes salts that retain the biological effectiveness and properties of the active ingredient, and which are not biologically or otherwise undesirable, and include derivatives of the disclosed compounds in which the parent compound is modified by making inorganic and organic, non-toxic, acid or base addition salts thereof. The salts can be synthesized from the parent compound by conventional chemical methods.

[0049] In another preferred embodiment, the granular composition comprises: a first component comprising sulfentrazone and isoxaflutole; and a second component comprising hexazinone.

[0050] In another embodiment, the granular composition comprises a herbicidal combination of N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide, isoxazole herbicide and triazinone herbicide. In another preferred embodiment, the granular composition comprises a herbicidal combination of sulfentrazone, isoxaflutole and hexazinone.

[0051] According to another embodiment, the concentration of the N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide is present in a range from about 10 g / kg to about 1000 g / kg, preferably from about 100 g / kg to about 900 g / kg, preferably from about 200 g / kg to about 800 g / kg, preferably from about 300 g / kg to about 700 g / kg, preferably from about 400 g / kg to about 600 g / kg, and most preferably about 500 g / kg. In a preferred embodiment, the concentration of sulfentrazone is about 500 g / kg.

[0052] According to another embodiment, the concentration of the isoxazole herbicide is present in a range from about 1 g / kg to about 500 g / kg, preferably from about 10 g / kg to about 400 g / kg, preferably from about 20 g / kg to about 300 g / kg, preferably from about 30 g / kg to about 200 g / kg, preferably from about 50 g / kg to about 150 g / kg, and most preferably about 125 g / kg. In a preferred embodiment, the concentration of isoxaflutole is about 125 g / kg.

[0053] According to another embodiment, the concentration of the triazinone herbicide is present in a range from about 1 g / kg to about 500 g / kg, preferably from about 10 g / kg to about 400 g / kg, preferably from about 20 g / kg to about 300 g / kg, preferably 30 g / kg to about 200 g / kg, preferably from about 50 g / kg to about 150 g / kg, and most preferably about 125 g / kg. In a preferred embodiment, the concentration of hexazinone is about 125 g / kg.

[0054] In another preferred embodiment, the granular composition comprises a herbicidal combination of sulfentrazone in a concentration of about 500 g / kg, isoxaflutole in a concentration of about 125 g / kg and hexazinone in a concentration of about 125 g / kg.

[0055] According to another embodiment, the N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide and the isoxazole herbicide are present in a weight ratio from about 0.1: 1 to about 50: 1, preferably from about 0.2: 1 to about 40: 1, preferably from about 0.4: 1 to about 30: 1, preferably from about 0.5:1 to about 20: 1, preferably from about 0.8: 1 to about 10: 1, and most preferably about 4: 1. In a preferred embodiment, sulfentrazone and isoxaflutole are present in a weight ratio of about 4: 1. According to another embodiment, the N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide and the triazinone herbicide are present in a weight ratio from about 0.1: 1 to about 50: 1, preferably from about 0.2: 1 to about 40: 1, preferably from about 0.4: 1 to about 30: 1, preferably from about 0.5:1 to about 20: 1, preferably from about 0.8: 1 to about 10: 1, and most preferably about 4: 1. In a preferred embodiment, sulfentrazone and hexazinone are present in a weight ratio of about 4: 1.

[0056] According to another embodiment, the isoxazole herbicide and the triazinone herbicide are present in a weight ratio from about 0.1: 1 to about 50: 1, preferably from about 0.2:1 to about 40: 1, preferably from about 0.4: 1 to about 30: 1, preferably from about 0.5: 1 to about 20: 1, preferably from about 0.8: 1 to about 10: 1, and most preferably about 1: 1. In a preferred embodiment, isoxaflutole and hexazinone are present in a weight ratio of about 1: 1.

[0057] In another preferred embodiment, sulfentrazone, isoxaflutole and hexazinone are present in a weight ratio of about 4: 1: 1.

[0058] In another preferred embodiment, the granular composition comprises: a first component comprising sulfentrazone and isoxaflutole; and a second component comprising hexazinone; wherein sulfentrazone, isoxaflutole and hexazinone are present in a weight ratio of about 4: 1: 1.

[0059] Unless otherwise indicated, the ratios disclosed throughout the specification are weight ratios.

[0060] According to another embodiment, the granular composition comprises from about 10% w / w to about 90% w / w, preferably from about 20% w / w to about 80% w / w, preferably from about 30% w / w to about 70% w / w, preferably from about 40% w / w to about 60% w / w, and most preferably about 50% w / w N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide, based on total weight of the composition. In a preferred embodiment, the granular composition comprises about 50% w / w sulfentrazone based on total weight of the composition.

[0061] According to another embodiment, the granular composition comprises from about 1% w / w to about 50% w / w, preferably from about 2% w / w to about 40% w / w, preferably from about 3% w / w to about 30% w / w, preferably from about 5% w / w to about 20% w / w, and most preferably about 12.5% w / w isoxazole herbicide, based on total weight of the composition. In a preferred embodiment, the granular composition comprises about 12.5% w / w isoxaflutole based on total weight of the composition.

[0062] According to another embodiment, the granular composition comprises from about 1% w / w to about 50% w / w, preferably from about 2% w / w to about 40% w / w, preferably from about 3% w / w to about 30% w / w, preferably from about 5% w / w to about 20% w / w, and most preferably about 12.5% w / w triazinone herbicide, based on total weight of the composition. In a preferred embodiment, the granular composition comprises about 12.5% w / w hexazinone based on total weight of the composition.

[0063] In another preferred embodiment, the granular composition comprises: a first component comprising 50% w / w sulfentrazone and 12.5% w / w isoxaflutole; and a second component comprising 12.5% w / w hexazinone based on total weight of the composition.

[0064] While developing a granular composition comprising at least one N- phenyltriazolinone herbicide, at least one isoxazole herbicide and at least one triazinone herbicide, it was surprisingly found by the present inventors that the integrity of granular composition can be maintained using a combination of wetting agent and dispersing agents. The combination of at least one wetting agent and at least two dispersing agents in a particular ratio facilitates granular composition formation. The selected combination of the wetting agent and dispersing agents in a selective weight ratio is found to successfully retain the integrity of the actives in the formulation which resulted in greater suspensibility and dispersibility.

[0065] According to an embodiment, the granular composition comprises a first component and a second component along with at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient(s).

[0066] According to an embodiment, the granular composition comprises a first component and a second component, wherein:

[0067] (a) the first component comprises at least one N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide, at least one isoxazole herbicide, at least two dispersing agents, at least one wetting agent, and optionally a binder; and

[0068] (b) the second component comprises at least one triazinone herbicide, at least one two dispersing agents, at least one wetting agent, and optionally a binder or a diluent or both.

[0069] In another embodiment, the agrochemically acceptable excipient(s) comprise wetting agent(s), dispersing agent(s), binder(s), antifoaming agent(s), diluent(s), or combinations thereof.

[0070] In another embodiment, the wetting agent(s) is selected from the group comprising sodium lauryl sulfate, potassium lauryl sulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate, or combinations thereof.

[0071] In a preferred embodiment, the wetting agent is sodium lauryl sulfate. In another embodiment, the granular composition comprises from about 4.75% w / w to about 6.75% w / w sodium lauryl sulfate, based on total weight of the composition.

[0072] In another embodiment, the dispersing agent(s) is selected from the group comprising sodium ligno sulphonate, polyalkyl naphthalene sulphonate, potassium polycarboxylate, sodium polycarboxylate, ligno sulfonates, kraft-lignosulfonate, calcium lignosulfonate, potassium lignosulfonate, salts of lignosulfonate, acrylic co-polymer, acid resin copolymer, styrene acrylic polymer, and sodium salt of maleic anhydride copolymer, or combinations thereof.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment, the dispersing agent is selected from sodium lignosulphonate, polyalkyl naphthalene sulphonate, or combinations thereof. In another embodiment, the granular composition comprises from about 2.5% w / w to about 4.5% w / w polyalkyl naphthalene sulphonate, based on total weight of the composition. In another embodiment, the granular composition comprises from about 4.7% w / w to about 6.7% w / w sodium lignosulphonate, based on total weight of the composition.

[0074] In another embodiment, the binder(s) is selected from the group comprising polyvinylpyrrolidones, corn starch, molasses, granulated sugar, alginates, karaya gum, jaguar gum, tragacanth gum, polysaccharide gum, mucilage, xanthan gum silicates such as magnesium aluminium silicate, polyvinyl acetates, polyvinyl acetate copolymers, polyvinyl alcohols, polyvinyl alcohol copolymers, celluloses, including ethylcelluloses and methylcelluloses, hydroxymethyl celluloses, hydroxypropylcelluloses, hydroxymethylpropyl-celluloses, dextrins, maltodextrins, polysaccharides, fats, oils, proteins, or combinations thereof.

[0075] In a preferred embodiment, the binder is selected from polyvinylpyrrolidone, corn starch, or combinations thereof. In another embodiment, the granular composition comprises from about 0.3% w / w to about 0.8% w / w polyvinylpyrrolidone, based on total weight of the composition.

[0076] In another embodiment, the antifoaming agent(s) is selected from the group comprising polysiloxane, polydimethoxysiloxane, polydimethylsiloxane, alkyl poly acrylates, castor oil, fatty acids, fatty acids esters, fatty acids sulfate, fatty alcohol, fatty alcohol esters, fatty alcohol sulfate, foot olive oil, mono & di glyceride, paraffin oil, paraffin wax, poly propylene glycol, silicones oil, vegetable fats, vegetable fats sulfate, vegetable oil, vegetable oil sulfate, vegetable wax, vegetable wax sulfate, agents based on silicon or magnesium stearate, or combinations thereof.

[0077] In a preferred embodiment, the antifoaming agent is polysiloxane. In another embodiment, the granular composition comprises from about 0.2% w / w to about 0.6% w / w polysiloxane, based on total weight of the composition.

[0078] In another embodiment, the diluent(s) is selected from the group comprising kaolin clay, bentonite clay, which may be natural bentonites or modified e.g., activated bentonites, synthetic and diatomaceous silicas, or combinations thereof.

[0079] In a preferred embodiment, the diluent is kaolin clay. In another embodiment, the granular composition comprises from about 1.3% w / w to about 2.5% w / w kaolin clay, based on total weight of the composition.

[0080] In a preferred embodiment, the granular composition comprises a first component and a second component, wherein:

[0081] (a) the first component comprises sulfentrazone, isoxaflutole, polyalkyl naphthalene sulphonate, sodium lignosulphonate, sodium lauryl sulphate, and optionally polyvinylpyrrolidone and corn starch; and

[0082] (b) the second component comprises hexazinone, polyalkyl naphthalene sulphonate, sodium lignosulphonate, sodium lauryl sulphate, and optionally corn starch and kaolin clay.

[0083] According to an embodiment, the granular composition comprises a first component and a second component admixed in a predetermined ratio; wherein: (a) the first component comprises at least one N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide, at least one isoxazole herbicide, at least two dispersing agents, at least one wetting agent, and optionally a binder; and (b) the second component comprises at least one triazinone herbicide, at least two dispersing agents, at least one wetting agent, and optionally a binder or a diluent or both.

[0084] In another embodiment, the granular composition comprises a first component and a second component admixed in a predetermined ratio ranging from about 1 : 1 to about 10: 1.

[0085] In another embodiment, the first component and the second component are admixed in a predetermined ratio selected from the group comprising 1: 1, 2: 1. 3: 1, 4:1, 5: 1, 6: 1, 7: 1, 8: 1, 9: 1, 10: 1, or combinations thereof.

[0086] In a preferred embodiment, the first component and the second component are admixed in a predetermined ratio of about 5: 1.

[0087] According to an embodiment, the granular composition comprises a first component and a second component admixed in a predetermined ratio; wherein:

[0088] (a) the first component has granules having particle diameter of less than about 1000 microns and comprises at least one N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide, at least one isoxazole herbicide, at least two dispersing agents, at least one wetting agent, and optionally a binder; and

[0089] (b) the second component has granules having particle diameter of less than about 1000 microns and comprises at least one triazinone herbicide, at least two dispersing agents, at least one wetting agent, and optionally a binder or a diluent or both.

[0090] In another embodiment, the first component has granules having particle diameter ranging from about 100 to about 1200 microns, preferably less than about 1000 microns. In a preferred embodiment, the first component has granules having particle diameter ranging from about 500 to about 600 microns. In another embodiment, the second component has granules having particle diameter ranging from about 100 to about 1200 microns, preferably less than about 1000 microns. In a preferred embodiment, the second component has granules having particle diameter ranging from about 500 to about 600 microns.

[0091] In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a granular composition comprising granules having particle diameter of about less than about 1000 microns.

[0092] According to an embodiment, the present disclosure provides a process for preparation of the granular composition comprising a first component and a second component admixed in a predetermined ratio; the process comprising:

[0093] (a) adding and mixing at least one N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide, at least one isoxazole herbicide, at least two dispersing agents, at least one wetting agent, and optionally a binder;

[0094] (b) pulverizing the mixture of step (a) to a particle size (D90) of less than about 50 microns and blending with water to obtain a paste by kneading;

[0095] (c) granulating the paste to obtain granules and drying the granules to obtain the first component;

[0096] (d) adding and mixing at least one triazinone herbicide, at least two dispersing agents, at least one wetting agent, and optionally a binder or a diluent or both;

[0097] (e) pulverizing the mixture of step (d) to a particle size (D90) of less than about 50 microns and blending with water to obtain a paste by kneading;

[0098] (f) granulating the paste to obtain granules through extruder and drying the granules to obtain the second component; and

[0099] (g) adding the first component obtained in step (c) and the second component obtained in step (f) in a predetermined ratio ranging from about 1 : 1 to about 10: 1 to obtain the granular composition. In a preferred embodiment, the first component obtained in step (c) and the second component obtained in step (f) are added in a predetermined ratio of about 5: 1 to obtain the granular composition.

[0100] In another embodiment, the first component comprises granules having particle diameter of less than about 1000 microns. In another embodiment, the second component comprises granules having particle diameter of less than about 1000 microns.

[0101] In another embodiment, the granules obtained in step (c) are dried at a temperature less than about 70°C for about 1 hour. In another embodiment, the granules obtained in step (f) are dried at a temperature less than about 70°C for about 1 hour.

[0102] In another embodiment, the granular composition of the present disclosure exhibits homogeneity, enhanced stability, improved suspensibility and greater dispersibility.

[0103] According to an embodiment, the present disclosure provides use of the granular composition for controlling weeds and achieving increased yield in the crops, by reducing the number of weeds in the crops, and improving the plant health.

[0104] According to an embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for controlling weeds, said method comprising applying to the plants or a locus thereof, the granular composition comprising a first component and a second component admixed in a predetermined ratio.

[0105] In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for controlling weeds, said method comprising applying to the plants or a locus thereof, the granular composition comprising a first component and a second component admixed in a predetermined ratio; wherein: (a) the first component comprises at least one N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide, at least one isoxazole herbicide, at least two dispersing agents, at least one wetting agent, and optionally a binder; and

[0106] (b) the second component comprises at least one triazinone herbicide, at least two dispersing agents, at least one wetting agent, and optionally a binder or a diluent or both.

[0107] In another embodiment, the N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide is applied in a range from about 100 g a.i. / ha to about 800 g a.i. / ha, preferably from about 200 g a.i. / ha to about 700 g a.i. / ha, preferably from about 300 g a.i. / ha to about 750 g a.i. / ha, and most preferably from about 400 g a.i. / ha to about 600 g a.i. / ha.

[0108] In another embodiment, the isoxazole herbicide is applied in a range from about 50 g a.i. / ha to about 400 g a.i. / ha, preferably from about 70 g a.i. / ha to about 300 g a.i. / ha, preferably from about 80 g a.i. / ha to about 200 g a.i. / ha, and most preferably from about 100 g a.i. / ha to about 150 g a.i. / ha.

[0109] In another embodiment, the triazinone herbicide is applied in a range from about 50 g a.i. / ha to about 400 g a.i. / ha, preferably from about 70 g a.i. / ha to about 300 g a.i. / ha, preferably from about 80 g a.i. / ha to about 200 g a.i. / ha, and most preferably from about 100 g a.i. / ha to about 150 g a.i. / ha.

[0110] In another embodiment, the granular composition of the present disclosure is used to control weeds in various agricultural crops. In another embodiment, the granular composition of the present disclosure is used to control broadleaf weeds and grasses in various agricultural crops.

[0111] In another embodiment, the various (target) agricultural crops include, but not limited to, sugarcane, corn, rice, wheat, barley, rye, oat, sorghum, cotton, soybean, peanut, buckwheat, beet, rapeseed, sunflower, sugar cane, tobacco, etc.; solanaceous vegetables such as eggplant, tomato, pimento, pepper, potato, etc.; cucurbit vegetables such as cucumber, pumpkin, zucchini, water melon, melon, squash, etc.; cruciferous vegetables such as radish, white turnip, horseradish, kohlrabi, Chinese cabbage, cabbage, leaf mustard, broccoli, cauliflower, etc.; asteraceous vegetables such as burdock, crown daisy, artichoke, lettuce, etc.; liliaceous vegetables such as green onion, onion, garlic, and asparagus, ammiaceous vegetables such as carrot, parsley, celery, parsnip, etc.; chenopodiaceous vegetables such as spinach, Swiss chard, etc.; lamiaceous vegetables such as Perilla frutescens, mint, basil, etc, strawberry, sweet potato, Dioscorea japonica, colocasia, etc.; flowers, foliage plants, turf grasses; pome fruits such apple, pear, quince, etc.; stone fleshy fruits such as peach, plum, nectarine, Prunus mume, cherry fruit, apricot, prune, etc.; citrus fruits such as orange, lemon, rime, grapefruit, etc.; nuts such as chestnuts, walnuts, hazelnuts, almond, pistachio, cashew nuts, macadamia nuts, etc.; berries such as blueberry, cranberry, blackberry, raspberry, etc.; grape, kaki fruit, olive, plum, banana, coffee, date palm, coconuts, etc.; trees other than fruit trees; tea, mulberry, flowering plants; trees such as ash, birch, dogwood, Eucalyptus, Ginkgo biloba, lilac, maple, Quercus, poplar, Judas tree, Liquidambar formosana, plane tree, zelkova, Japanese arborvitae, fir wood, hemlock, juniper, Pinus, Picea, and Taxus cuspidate, etc.

[0112] In another embodiment, the composition of the present disclosure is used to control weeds in various agricultural crops. Non-limiting examples of weeds controlled by the composition of the present disclosure include Ipomoea sp., Digitaria sp., Portulaca oleracea, Brachiaria decumbens, Amaranthus sp., Panicum maximum, Cyperus rotundus, Bidens pilosa, Ricinus communis, Euphorbia hererophylla, Sida cordifolia, Senna obtusifolia, Commelina benghalensis, Digitaris insularis, Alt he rmant her a tenella, Mucuna pruriens, Croton lobatus, Euphorbia hirta, Eleusine indica, Spermacoce latifolia, Conyza bonarienses, Artemisia absinthun, or combinations thereof.

[0113] According to an embodiment, various components of the granular composition can be used individually or already partially or completely mixed with at least one other component to prepare the granular composition according to the disclosure. It is also possible for them to be packaged and used further as composition such as a kit of parts.

[0114] In one embodiment of the disclosure, the kits may include one or more, including all, components that may be used to prepare the granular composition, e.g., kits may include first component, second component and / or at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient(s). 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.

[0115] According to an embodiment, the present disclosure provides a kit comprising:

[0116] (a) a first component comprises at least one N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide, at least one isoxazole herbicide, at least two dispersing agents, at least one wetting agent, and optionally a binder;

[0117] (b) a second component comprises at least one triazinone herbicide, at least two dispersing agents, at least one wetting agent, and optionally a binder or a diluent or both; and and optionally further comprises:

[0118] (c) instructions for use.

[0119] It will be understood that the specification and examples are illustrative but not limiting of the present disclosure and that other embodiments within the spirit and scope of the disclosure will suggest themselves to those skilled in the art. Other embodiments can be practiced that are also within the scope of the present disclosure. EXAMPLES:

[0120] Example 1: Granular Composition

[0121] The granular composition of the present invention was formulated as a water- dispersible granule (WDG or WG) formulation.

[0122] Process:

[0123] (a) Preparation of the first component:

[0124] Sulfentrazone, isoxaflutole, sodium lauryl sulphate, polyalkyl naphthalene sulphonates, sodium lignosulphonate, polyvinylpyrrolidone and binder were added and mixed together homogenously to obtain a mixture. The mixture was pulverized to a particle size (D90) of less than about 50 microns, was blend with water and a paste was obtained by kneading. The paste was granulated through extruder to obtain granules. The granules were dried to a temperature of about less than 70°C for about 1 hour, to obtain the first component.

[0125] (b) Preparation of the second component:

[0126] Hexazinone, sodium lauryl sulphate, polyalkyl naphthalene sulphonates, sodium lignosulphonate, binder and kaolin clay were added and mixed together homogenously to obtain a mixture. The mixture was pulverized to a particle size (D90) of less than about 50 microns, was blended with water and a paste was obtained by kneading. The paste was granulated to obtain granules. The granules were dried to a temperature of about less than 70°C for about 1 hour, to obtain the second component. (c) Preparation of the granular composition:

[0127] The first component and the second component were mixed in a predetermined ratio of about 5: 1 to obtain the granular composition. Example 2: Granular Composition

[0128] The granular composition of the present invention was formulated as a water- dispersible granule (WDG or WG) formulation. Process: a) Preparation of the first component:

[0129] Sulfentrazone, isoxaflutole, sodium lauryl sulphate, polyalkyl naphthalene sulphonates, sodium lignosulphonate, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polysiloxane and com starch were added and mixed together homogenously to obtain a mixture. The mixture was pulverized to a particle size (D90) of less than about 50 microns, was blend with water and a paste was obtained by kneading. The paste was granulated through extruder to obtain granules. The granules were dried to a temperature of less than 70°C for about 1 hour, to obtain the first component. b) Preparation of the second component:

[0130] Hexazinone, sodium lauryl sulphate, polyalkyl naphthalene sulphonates, sodium lignosulphonate, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polysiloxane, corn starch and kaolin clay were added and mixed together homogenously to obtain a mixture. The mixture was pulverized to a particle size (D90) of less than about 50 microns, was blend with water and a paste was obtained by kneading. The paste was granulated to obtain granules. The granules were dried to a temperature of about less than 70°C for about 1 hour, to obtain the second component. c) Preparation of the granular composition:

[0131] The first component and the second component were mixed in a predetermined ratio of about 5: 1 to obtain the granular composition.

[0132] Example 3: Efficacy of Sulfentrazone + Isoxaflutole + Hexazinone

[0133] Experiment was conducted to assess the efficacy of the granular composition comprising sulfentrazone, isoxaflutole and hexazinone to control variety of weeds in sugarcane crops.

[0134] The spray volume of the treatment was 150 L / h and was applied at pre-emergence. The percentage efficacy was calculated at an interval of 30 days after spraying (DAS). The results are recorded in Table 1.

[0135] Table 1

[0136] It was observed that the granular composition comprising sulfentrazone, isoxaflutole and hexazinone showed enhanced efficacy for control of weeds in sugarcane at pre-emergence. Example 4: Physiochemical stability

[0137] The inventors of the present invention successfully developed a granule formulation comprising sulfentrazone, isoxaflutole and hexazinone. The stable compositions according to present invention demonstrated about 99% suspensibility of the actives in the composition. The granular composition exhibits homogeneity, enhanced stability, improved suspensibility and greater dispersibility. The active ingredients were found to remain quite stable after preparation and even during storage studies.

[0138] It should be understood that the examples and embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and that various modifications or changes in light thereof will be suggested to person skilled in the art and are to be included within the spirit and purview of this application and the scope of the appended claims. In addition, any elements or limitations of any disclosure or embodiment thereof disclosed herein can be combined with any and / or all other elements or limitations (individually or in any combination) or any other disclosure or embodiment thereof disclosed herein, and all Such combinations are contemplated with the scope of the disclosure without limitation thereto.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A granular composition comprising: a. a first component comprises at least one N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide, and at least one isoxazole herbicide; b. a second component comprises at least one triazinone herbicide; and c. at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient.

2. The granular composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the N- phenyltriazolinone herbicide is selected from the group comprising sulfentrazone, azafenidin, bencarbazone, carfentrazone, or combinations thereof.

3. The granular composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the isoxazole herbicide is selected from the group comprising isoxaflutole, isoxacarbole, isoxachlortole, or combinations thereof.

4. The granular composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the triazinone herbicide is selected from the group comprising hexazinone, ametridione, amibuzin, ethiozin, isomethiozin, metamitron, metribuzin, or combinations thereof.

5. The granular composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first component and the second component are present in the ratio ranging from 1: 1 to 10: 1.

6. The granular composition as claimed in claim 2, wherein the weight concentration of N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide is present in a range from 10% w / w to 90% w / w of the total weight of the composition.

7. The granular composition as claimed in claim 3, wherein the weight concentration of isoxazole herbicide is present in a range from 1% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition.

8. The granular composition as claimed in claim 4, wherein the weight concentration of triazinone herbicide is present in a range from 1% w / w to about 50% w / w of the total weight of the composition.

9. The granular composition as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the agrochemically acceptable excipient is selected from the group comprising wetting agent,dispersing agent, binder, antifoaming agent, diluent or combinations thereof.

10. The granular composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composition comprises at least one wetting agent.

11. The granular composition as claimed claim 10, wherein the wetting agent(s) is selected from the group comprising sodium lauryl sulfate, potassium lauryl sulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate, or combinations thereof.

12. The granular compsoition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composition comprises at least two dispersing agents.

13. The granular composition as claimed in claim 12, wherein the dispersing agent(s) is selected from the group comprising sodium ligno sulphonate, polyalkyl naphthalene sulphonate, potassium polycarboxylate, sodium polycarboxylate, ligno sulfonates, kraft-lignosulfonate, calcium ligno sulfonate, potassium ligno sulfonate, salts of ligno sulfonate, acrylic copolymer, acid resin copolymer, styrene acrylic polymer, and sodium salt of maleic anhydride copolymer, or combinations thereof.

14. The granular composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the binder(s) is selected from the group comprising polyvinylpyrrolidones, corn starch, molasses, granulated sugar, alginates, karaya gum, jaguar gum, tragacanth gum, polysaccharide gum, mucilage, xanthan gum silicates such as magnesium aluminium silicate, polyvinyl acetates, polyvinyl acetate copolymers, polyvinyl alcohols, polyvinyl alcohol copolymers, celluloses, including ethylcelluloses and methylcelluloses, hydroxymethyl celluloses, hydroxypropylcelluloses, hydroxymethylpropyl-celluloses, dextrins, maltodextrins, polysaccharides, fats, oils, proteins, or combinations thereof.

15. The granular composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the particle diameter of the first and the second component ranging from about 100 to about 1200 microns.

16. The granular composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composition comprising:a. a first component comprises at least one N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide, at least one isoxazole herbicide, at least two dispersing agents, at least one wetting agent, and optionally a binder; and b. a second component comprises at least one triazinone herbicide, at least two dispersing agents, at least one wetting agent, and optionally a binder or a diluent or both.

17. A process for preparation of the granular composition, the process comprising: a. adding and mixing at least one N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide, at least one isoxazole herbicide, at least two dispersing agents, at least one wetting agent, and optionally a binder; b. pulverizing the mixture of step (a) to a particle size (D90) of less than about 50 microns and blending with water to obtain a paste by kneading; c. granulating the paste to obtain granules and drying the granules at a temperature less than about 70°C for about 1 hour to obtain the first component; d. adding and mixing at least one triazinone herbicide, at least two dispersing agents, at least one wetting agent, and optionally a binder or a diluent or both; e. pulverizing the mixture of step (d) to a particle size (D90) of less than about 50 microns and blending with water to obtain a paste by kneading; f. granulating the paste through extruder to obtain granules and drying the granules at a temperature less than about 70°C for about 1 hour to obtain the second component; and g. adding the first component obtained in step (c) and the second component obtained in step (f) to obtain the granular composition.

18. A method for controlling weeds, the method comprising applying to the plants or a locus thereof, the granular composition comprising: a. a first component comprises at least one N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide, at least one isoxazole herbicide, at least two dispersing agents, at least one wetting agent, and optionally a binder; andb. a second component comprises at least one triazinone herbicide, at least two dispersing agents, at least one wetting agent, and optionally a binder or a diluent or both.

19. The method as claimed in claim 18, wherein the N-phenyltriazolinone herbicide is applied in a range from about 100 g a.i. / ha to about 800 g a.i. / ha, the isoxazole herbicide is applied in a range from about 50 g a.i. / ha to about 400 g a.i. / ha, and the triazinone herbicide is applied in a range from about 50 g a.i. / ha to about 400 g a.i. / ha.

20. A kit comprising a plurality of components comprising at least one of the ingredients of the herbicidal combination as claimed in claim 1.

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