Multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition

Abstract

This invention discloses a multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition (“MAAC”) comprising at least one liquid component and one or more solid agricultural particles dispersed in the liquid component. The liquid component may include at least one methylated seed oil. Examples of solid agricultural particles include ammonium sulfate, other water conditioners, amino acids, or polymers. The MAAC exhibits one or more desired functions, depending on the amount and composition of the liquid component, the amount and composition of the solid agricultural particles, and optionally one or more surfactants and / or one or more other components (e.g., rheology modifiers) added to the MAAC. The desired functions of the MAAC may include at least one of water conditioners, surfactants, high-surfactant oil concentrates, crop oil concentrates, or drift and sedimentation reduction aids.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of agriculture; in particular, the present invention relates to a multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition and application thereof. Background Art

[0002] Agricultural sprays typically include an agricultural adjuvant composition that is configured and selected to assist or contribute to the effectiveness of the agricultural spray. For example, the adjuvant can be configured and selected to reduce the number of driftable droplets formed when the agricultural spray is dispensed from one or more nozzles. Some agricultural adjuvant compositions include ammonium sulfate ("AMS") dissolved in water. Such agricultural adjuvant compositions containing AMS dissolved in water are limited by the amount of AMS that can be dissolved in water. For example, the amount of AMS that can be dissolved in water at 0°C is 41 weight percent (wt.%), so such agricultural adjuvant compositions containing AMS dissolved in water typically contain less than 38 wt.% AMS to prevent AMS from flowing out of the solution (e.g., AMS precipitating out of the solution may form large particles of AMS that are difficult to dissolve). In addition, such agricultural adjuvant compositions including AMS dissolved in water are also limited because water is an inactive ingredient (e.g., does not assist or contribute to the effectiveness of the agricultural spray).

[0003] Users and producers of agricultural adjuvant compositions are continually searching for new and improved adjuvants. Summary of the invention

[0004] In one embodiment, a multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition is disclosed. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition comprises one or more liquid components comprising methylated seed oil. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition also comprises one or more ammonium sulfate particles dispersed in the one or more liquid components. In addition, the multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition comprises one or more surfactants. The one or more surfactants exhibit a hydrophilic-lipophilic balance of about 4-9 or 16-about 30. The one or more surfactants do not contain non-ionic surfactants. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition is at least two of a water quality improver, a surfactant, a high surfactant oil concentrate, a crop oil concentrate, an adjuvant to reduce drift and deposition, a buffer, an acidulant, a nitrogen source, a compatibilizer, a basic mixture, an adjuvant plus foliar fertilizer, a micronutrient, a macronutrient, a defoamer, an antifoamer, a marker, a tank cleaner, or a utility adjuvant.

[0005] In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more surfactants exhibits a hydrophile-lipophile balance of about 4-9.

[0006] In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more surfactants exhibits a hydrophile-lipophile balance of 16 to about 30.

[0007] In some embodiments, the one or more surfactants include one or more ionic surfactants.

[0008] In some embodiments, the one or more surfactants include one or more amphoteric surfactants.

[0009] In one embodiment, a multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition is disclosed. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition comprises one or more liquid components. The one or more liquid components comprise methylated seed oil. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition further comprises one or more solid agricultural particles dispersed in the one or more liquid components. The one or more solid agricultural particles account for about 0.5 weight percent to about 99 weight percent of the multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition exhibits one or more desired functions.

[0010] In some embodiments, the one or more liquid components include at least one of a petroleum oil, a vegetable oil, a seed oil, a paraffinic oil, a paraffinic oil, a mineral oil, a naphthenic oil, an aromatic oil, a petroleum distillate, an ethylated seed oil, a propylated seed oil, or a butylated seed oil.

[0011] In some embodiments, the one or more solid agricultural particles comprise ammonium sulfate.

[0012] In some embodiments, at room temperature, the ammonium sulfate accounts for greater than 41 weight percent of the multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition.

[0013] In some embodiments, the one or more solid agricultural particles comprise at least one of sodium citrate, dipotassium phosphate, monoethanolamine sulfate, triethanolamine sulfate, itaconic acid, or one or more polyphosphates.

[0014] In some embodiments, the multifunctional agricultural composition further comprises one or more surfactants.

[0015] In some embodiments, the one or more surfactants include at least one of one or more ionic surfactants or one or more amphoteric surfactants.

[0016] In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more surfactants exhibits a hydrophile-lipophile balance of about 4-9.

[0017] In some embodiments, the multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition further comprises at least one rheology modifier.

[0018] In some embodiments, the multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition further comprises one or more defoamers, one or more structurants, one or more soluble pesticides soluble in one or more liquid components, or one or more soluble solid agricultural particles soluble in one or more liquid components.

[0019] In some embodiments, the one or more liquid components are substantially anhydrous.

[0020] In some embodiments, the multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition further comprises one or more water-sensitive chemicals, wherein each of the one or more water-sensitive chemicals is in an initial state.

[0021] In some embodiments, the multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition is at least one of a water conditioner or an adjuvant that reduces drift and sedimentation.

[0022] In some embodiments, the multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition is at least one of a surfactant, a high surfactant oil concentrate, or a crop oil concentrate.

[0023] In one embodiment, an agricultural spray is disclosed. The agricultural spray comprises water, at least one pesticide or fertilizer, and a multifunctional agricultural adjuvant disposed therein. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant comprises one or more liquid components, wherein the liquid components comprise methylated seed oil and one or more solid agricultural particles at least partially dissolved in water.

[0024] In one embodiment, a multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition is disclosed. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition comprises one or more liquid components. The one or more liquid components comprise methylated seed oil. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition further comprises one or more ammonium sulfate particles dispersed in the one or more liquid components. At room temperature, the one or more solid agricultural particles account for more than 41 weight percent of the multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition and have an average particle size of less than 500 μm. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition further comprises one or more surfactants.

[0025] Features from any disclosed embodiment may be used in combination with each other without restriction.In addition, other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art by considering the detailed description herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Figure 1 is a graph combining information from Test Working Examples 53 and 54 and Comparative Examples 12 and 13. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Disclosed herein are multifunctional agricultural adjuvant compositions ("MAACs"). Exemplary MAACs include at least one liquid component and one or more solid agricultural particles dispersed in the liquid component. In other words, the MAAC is at least one of a suspension, dispersion, or slurry of solid agricultural particles in a liquid component. The liquid component includes at least one methylated seed oil ("MSO"), and the solid agricultural particles form about 0.5 wt.% to about 99 wt.% of the MAAC, such that the adjuvant is an oil dispersion ("OD"). Examples of solid agricultural particles include AMS, one or more non-AMS water quality regulators, amino acids, other organic chemicals, or other polymers. Depending on the number and composition of the liquid component, the number and composition of the solid agricultural particles, and optionally adding one or more surfactants and / or one or more other ingredients (e.g., rheology modifiers) to the MAAC, the MAAC exhibits one or more desired functions. The desired functions (reagents) of the MAAC may include at least one of a water quality regulator, a surfactant, a high surfactant oil concentrate, a crop oil concentrate, or an adjuvant to reduce drift and sedimentation.

[0028] Solid agricultural particles have been used in certain agricultural adjuvant compositions (e.g., non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant compositions). For example, solid agricultural particles have been used in non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant compositions, which consist of or consist essentially only of (e.g., in the form of greater than 90wt.% of the non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant composition) solid agricultural particles or include solid agricultural particles dissolved in a liquid (e.g., water). However, the non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant compositions exhibit several disadvantages. For example, non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant compositions consisting of solid agricultural particles or consisting essentially only of solid agricultural particles are easily airborne due to the small particle size of the solid agricultural particles. Airborne agricultural solid particles increase the risk of exposure to agricultural solid particles, which may cause health hazards. For example, AMS is harmful in the case of skin contact, eye contact, ingestion or inhalation; when AMS is airborne, each of the risks described increases. In addition, the solubility of solid agricultural particles in liquids limits the number and composition of solid agricultural particles dissolved in liquids in non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant compositions. For example, recrystallization of solid agricultural particles from liquids may adversely increase the particle size of non-MAAC solid agricultural particles.

[0029] However, the MAAC disclosed herein represents an improvement on the non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant composition, which is composed of solid agricultural particles or substantially only of solid agricultural particles, or includes solid agricultural particles dissolved in a liquid. For example, as previously discussed, the MAAC disclosed herein includes solid agricultural particles dispersed in a liquid component. Dispersing the solid agricultural particles in the liquid component can prevent or inhibit the spread of solid agricultural particles in the air. In addition, compared with the non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant composition including solid agricultural particles dissolved in a liquid, since the solubility of solid agricultural particles in the liquid is insignificant, the MAAC disclosed herein can include a larger amount of solid agricultural particles, a larger variety of solid agricultural particles, and a larger variety of liquid components. Compared with the non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant composition, the number of solid agricultural particles in MAAC is larger, the composition types of solid agricultural particles are more, and the composition types of liquid components are more, which makes MAAC show more functions than non-MAAC. In addition, the larger amount of solid agricultural particles in MAAC can increase the concentration of solid agricultural particles in MAAC. The higher concentration of MAAC reduces the volume of MAAC compared to a substantially similar non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant composition (e.g., a non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant composition comprising the same amount of solid particles dissolved in a liquid), making the transportation, handling, and storage of MAAC more efficient. Additionally, the higher concentration of solid agricultural particles in MAAC may reduce the volume of MAAC added to agricultural sprays.

[0030] Note that any reference to the solubility and / or dispersibility of solid agricultural particles in a liquid component refers to the solubility and / or dispersibility of solid agricultural particles in a liquid component at 0° C. In addition, any reference to the amount of solid agricultural particles and / or other components (e.g., liquid components, surfactants, etc.) that may be included in MAAC refers to the amount of solid agricultural particles and / or other components that may be included in MAAC at 0° C.

[0031] Liquid ingredients

[0032] The liquid component is selected so that at least one of the solid agricultural particles is at least partially dispersible (e.g., insoluble) in the liquid component. For example, the liquid component is selected so that at least one solid agricultural particle is substantially insoluble in the liquid component (e.g., up to about 5 wt.% of the solid agricultural particles are soluble in the liquid component) or is generally insoluble in the liquid component (e.g., up to about 25 wt.%, up to about 20 wt.%, up to about 15 wt.% or up to 10 wt.% of the solid agricultural particles are soluble in the liquid component) to limit the effect of recrystallization of the solid agricultural particles on their particle size. However, it should be noted that the liquid component can be selected so that at least a large portion of the solid agricultural particles (e.g., greater than about 25 wt.%, or about 25 wt.% to about 50 wt.%) can be dissolved in the liquid component. As previously described, dispersing the solid agricultural particles in the liquid component can allow the MAAC to contain a larger number of solid agricultural particles than a substantially similar non-MAAC agricultural solid composition including a liquid (e.g., water) selected to dissolve at least substantially all of the solid agricultural particles, or at least one of more different types of solid agricultural particle compositions. MAAC can contain at least one of a greater number of solid agricultural particles or a greater variety of solid agricultural particle compositions as compared to a substantially similar non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant composition, which can result in reducing the volume of MAAC, increasing the concentration of one or more solid agricultural particles in MAAC, or causing MAAC to exhibit at least one of one or more desired functions.

[0033] In one embodiment, the liquid component may be an oil, and the composition may be an OD. The oil may include or be composed of MSO. MSO is classified differently from other oils in the art because MSO has several properties different from other oils (e.g., petroleum distillates, corn oil, coconut oil, cottonseed oil, soybean oil, polyoxyethylene castor oil, cod liver oil, epoxidized linseed oil, fish oil, mineral oil, whale oil, tall oil, wintergreen oil, rapeseed oil, ethylated seed oil, propylated seed oil, butylated seed oil, petroleum, other oils from plants and animals, other seed oils, paraffin oil, etc.). Compared with a substantially similar non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant composition that does not include MSO, the different properties of MSO can improve the MAAC containing MSO. For example, unlike some oils, MSO itself is an agricultural adjuvant. Since MSO itself is an active ingredient, the inclusion of MSO in MAAC may result in MAAC containing a higher concentration of active ingredients (e.g., to help or improve the efficacy of agricultural sprays). Compared to a non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant composition that does not contain MSO, a higher concentration of active ingredients can reduce the volume of MAAC and / or reduce the amount of MAAC added to the agricultural spray. In one example, MSO can increase the absorption of active ingredients in plants. In one example, MSO can disperse more types of solid agricultural particles without dissolving the solid agricultural particles. For example, MSO can disperse the AMS therein without dissolving a large amount of AMS. The ability of MSO to disperse a variety of solid agricultural particles without dissolving the solid agricultural particles allows MAAC to contain higher concentrations of solid agricultural particles, and compared to a substantially similar non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant composition that does not contain MSO, MAAC can contain more types of solid agricultural particles. It should be noted that, depending on the composition of the solid agricultural particles, at least some other organic solvents can disperse a variety of solid agricultural particles without dissolving the solid agricultural particles. In one example, MSO can be used with a variety of components. For example, MSO can be used with a variety of surfactants, such as surfactants that exhibit a wide range of viscosities, hydrophilic-lipophilic balances, compositions, and the like. In particular, unlike some of the other oils mentioned above, MSO allows the MAAC disclosed herein to include ionic surfactants and / or amphoteric surfactants as additions to nonionic surfactants, or to replace nonionic surfactants. In addition, unlike some of the other oils mentioned above, MSO allows the MAAC disclosed herein to include surfactants exhibiting a hydrophilic-lipophilic balance ("HLB") of about 4-9, or surfactants exhibiting an HLB of 16 to about 30, rather than being limited to surfactants with an HLB of 10-15. In one example, unlike some oils, MAAC can remain stable (e.g., solid agricultural particles do not precipitate from the liquid component at room temperature within a selected period of time) regardless of the viscosity of MSO.For example, MAAC may remain stable when MSO exhibits a viscosity of about 5.8 centipoise (cP) at 25° C. and about 5.3 cP at 40° C. In addition, MSO may have a positive impact on the application of sprays because MSO may promote penetration of active ingredients (AI) to the target through moisturizing, improve adhesion, increase spray coverage, dissolve waxy leaf cuticles, serve a technical function to reduce drift (e.g., improve deposition, reduce physical particle spray drift, and reduce water droplet bounce impacting leaf surfaces), optimize pesticide performance at low humidity, optimize pesticide performance under drought stress, optimize pesticide performance on larger weeds, and solubilize less water-soluble herbicides.

[0034] Furthermore, because MSO is widely available, the liquid component may include MSO. The widespread availability of MSO may improve the manufacturing of MAAC containing MSO because, unlike some oils, supply bottlenecks or insufficient supply are less likely to cause manufacturing delays.

[0035] In one embodiment, the liquid component may include one or more non-MSO oils to replace or supplement MSO. In one example, the one or more non-MSO oils may include one or more modified seed oils, such as ethylated seed oils, propylated seed oils or butylated seed oils. In one example, the one or more non-MSO oils may include one or more non-alkylated oils, such as petroleum distillates, petroleum oils, vegetable oils (e.g., corn oil, coconut oil or soybean oil), other seed oils (e.g., cottonseed oil, linseed oil or rapeseed oil), paraffinic oils, paraffinic oils, mineral oils, naphthenic oils, aromatic oils, petroleum distillates, hydrocarbons or any other oil. It should be noted that some of the non-MSO oils disclosed herein may exhibit certain advantages of MSO. In one embodiment, the liquid component may include a non-polar liquid. In one embodiment, the liquid component may include a non-oil liquid, such as an alcohol or water. In one embodiment, the liquid component may be substantially anhydrous (e.g., the liquid component includes less than about 5wt.% water, less than 2wt.% water or less than 1wt.% water).

[0036] Solid agricultural pellets

[0037] Solid agricultural particles may include any solid particles that can be dispersed in a liquid component. For example, the solid agricultural particles may include at least one of the following: one or more water quality regulators, one or more organic acids, one or more pesticides (e.g., herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, rodenticides, bactericides, larvicides, nematicides, etc.), one or more micronutrients (e.g., Zn, Mn, B, Cu, Mo, Co, Cl, Na, etc.), one or more macronutrients (e.g., N, P, K, etc.), one or more secondary macronutrients (e.g., S, Ca, Mg, etc.), one or more spores, one or more microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, etc.), one or more inoculants, one or more plant growth regulators, one or more water-sensitive components (e.g., water-activated compositions or water-inactivated compositions), one or more amino acids or other adjuvant compositions.

[0038] In one embodiment, the solid agricultural particles may include at least one water quality regulator. The water quality regulator is used with hard water to at least reduce the interaction of dissolved solids with active ingredients or inhibit the decline in the efficacy of pesticides and / or micronutrients in hard water, both of which reduce the performance of agricultural sprays. In addition, water quality regulators (such as AMS) may help certain active ingredients to be absorbed by plants. In one example, the at least one water quality regulator may include AMS. As previously described, AMS has been used in non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant compositions. However, due to the health hazards associated with the use of dry AMS and the limited solubility of AMS in water (41wt.% at 0°C), the use of AMS in non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant compositions is limited. Nevertheless, dispersing AMS in a liquid component solves the above-mentioned problems of AMS. For example, the liquid component prevents AMS from being airborne, which makes AMS operation safer (e.g., limiting inhalation, ingestion and skin contact) and makes the limited solubility of AMS in water not a problem. For example, AMS can form 42 wt.% to about 99 wt.%, 42 wt.% to about 90 wt.%, 45 wt.% to about 65 wt.%, about 55 wt.% to about 75 wt.%, about 65 wt.% to about 85 wt.%, or about 75 wt.% to about 90 wt. of MAAC. When used as a water conditioner, the AMS combines with hard water ions and provides ammonium ions to improve absorption.

[0039] In one example, at least one water conditioner may include at least one non-AMS water conditioner to replace or supplement AMS. Examples of non-AMS water conditioners include sodium citrate, dipotassium hydrogen phosphate, monoethanolamine sulfate, triethanolamine sulfate, itaconic acid, polyphosphates, organic acids or salts thereof, amino acids, phosphonates, Lewis bases (e.g., monoethanolamine), synthetic compounds (e.g., ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, ethylenediamine-N,N-bisnitrilotriacetic acid, diethylenetriaminepentaacetate, ethylenediamine-N,N'-disuccinic acid, methylglycine diacetic acid or ethylenediamine-N,N'-bis(2-hydroxyphenylacetic acid)), polymerized amino acids and / or phosphonates, or other suitable polymers.

[0040] In one embodiment, as previously described, the solid agricultural particles may include one or more organic acids. The organic acid that may form at least a portion of the solid agricultural particles may include at least one of propionic acid, valeric acid, caproic acid, benzoic acid, carbonic acid, acetic acid, butyric acid, formic acid, maleic acid, oleic acid, oxalic acid, stearic acid, tartaric acid, uric acid, citric acid, gluconic acid, lactic acid, malonic acid, tartaric acid, glutamic acid, fumaric acid, oleic acid, glutaric acid, malic acid, or ascorbic acid. Note that the organic acid may also act as a water conditioner.

[0041] The solid agricultural particles can be selected so as to at least partially dissolve when added to an agricultural spray. For example, the agricultural spray can contain water, and the solid agricultural particles can exhibit at least some solubility in the water. Dissolving the solid agricultural particles in the agricultural spray can prevent the solid agricultural particles from clogging the nozzle spraying the agricultural spray, and can promote uniform distribution of the solid agricultural particles in the agricultural spray. In one embodiment, the solid agricultural particles can be selected and configured to exhibit rapid dissolution in an agricultural spray (e.g., water). For example, compared to a non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant composition composed of solid agricultural particles, the solid agricultural particles disclosed herein can dissolve faster in an agricultural spray due to the liquid component. The rapid dissolution of the solid agricultural particles can reduce the amount of mixing and time required to dissolve the solid agricultural particles in the agricultural spray. When the solid agricultural particles exhibit a high surface area, the solid agricultural particles can exhibit rapid dissolution in the agricultural spray. For example, the solid agricultural particles can exhibit at least about 15 cm 2 / g surface area, for example, at about 15cm 2 / g to about 150cm 2 / g, about 100cm 2 / g to about 1,000cm 2 / g, about 150cm 2 / g to about 1,500cm 2 / g, about 1,000cm 2 / g to about 10,000cm 2 / g, about 1,500cm 2 / g to about 15,000cm 2 / g or about 10,000cm 2 / g to about 50,000cm 2 / g range.

[0042] In one embodiment, the solid agricultural particles can be selected and configured to exhibit a relatively small average particle size. The relatively small average particle size of the solid agricultural particles can facilitate dispersion of the solid agricultural particles in the liquid component and increase the surface area of ​​the solid agricultural particles. In one example, the relatively small average particle size of the solid agricultural particles can be less than about 500 μm, less than about 400 μm, less than about 200 μm, such as less than about 150 μm, less than about 100 μm, less than about 50 μm, less than about 25 μm, less than about 10 μm, less than about 5 μm, less than about 1 μm, less than about 500 nm, or in the range of about 500 nm to about 5 μm, about 1 μm to about 10 μm, about 5 μm to about 25 μm, about 10 μm to about 50 μm, about 25 μm to about 100 μm, about 50 μm to about 200 μm, about 100 μm to about 300 μm, about 200 μm to about 400 μm, about 300 μm to about 450 μm, or about 350 μm to about 500 μm.

[0043] The solid agricultural particles can be treated to exhibit any surface area and / or particle size disclosed herein. In one embodiment, treating the solid agricultural particles can include grinding the solid agricultural particles to increase the surface area and reduce the average particle size of the solid agricultural particles. Examples of grinding solid agricultural particles can include dry grinding or wet grinding processes. The dry grinding process can include the use of a blender, a hammer mill, a pin mill, a media mill (e.g., a ball mill or a jar mill) or a media-free mill (e.g., a jet mill or a jet mill). The wet grinding process can include blending, a wet media grinder or a wet media-free grinder (e.g., a homogenizer, a high shear grinder or a bearing). In one embodiment, treating the solid agricultural particles can include a non-grinding process, such as precipitation, spray drying, freeze drying, other mechanical processes or other chemical processes.

[0044] Surfactants

[0045] In some embodiments, MAAC may include at least one surfactant (e.g., dispersant) different from the liquid component and the solid agricultural particles. Surfactants can be selected and configured to disperse the solid agricultural particles substantially evenly in the liquid component, or to disperse the solid agricultural particles more evenly in the liquid component than when MAAC does not include a surfactant. For example, when the solid agricultural particles are not dispersible in the liquid component (e.g., the solid agricultural particles form agglomerates in the liquid component), MAAC may include at least one surfactant, or even if the solid agricultural particles are dispersible in the liquid component, a surfactant is included to improve the distributability of the solid agricultural particles in the liquid. Surfactants can also be selected to disperse liquid components (e.g., oils) in agricultural sprays. In one embodiment, the MAAC does not include at least one surfactant, such as when the solid agricultural particles are at least partially dispersible in the liquid component without a surfactant.

[0046] Dispersing the solid agricultural particles in the liquid component can inhibit or prevent the solid agricultural particles from forming at least one of agglomerates of solid agricultural particles in the liquid component. Agglomerates of solid agricultural particles can prevent the solid agricultural particles from dissolving quickly in the agricultural spray and / or block the nozzle that dispenses the agricultural spray. In addition, dispersing the solid agricultural particles in the liquid component can inhibit or prevent the solid agricultural particles from settling, settling, packaging (e.g., forming a dense layer of solid agricultural particles at the bottom of a container including MAAC), or otherwise separating from the liquid component. When the MACC is removed from the container, precipitation, settling, packaging or otherwise separating the solid agricultural particles from the agricultural solid particles can retain the solid agricultural particles in the container containing MAAC. In one example, a surfactant can also be selected to disperse the liquid component (e.g., oil) in the agricultural spray.

[0047] Unlike some non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant compositions, MAAC can include any surfactant that can disperse solid agricultural particles in a liquid component without limitation. In one example, the surfactant can include at least one nonionic surfactant, such as nonylphenol ethoxylate or alkyl polyglycoside. As used herein, nonionic surfactants do not include MSO. In one example, the surfactant can include at least one surfactant that is not a nonionic surfactant, as a substitute for a nonionic surfactant (e.g., MAAC does not contain a nonionic surfactant) or as a supplement other than a nonionic surfactant. MAAC can include a surfactant that is not a nonionic surfactant, because MAAC can include MSO and MAAC can exhibit multiple functions. Examples of surfactants that can be included in MAAC that are not nonionic surfactants include at least one ionic surfactant, such as sodium lauryl ether sulfate. Examples of surfactants that can be included in MAAC that are not nonionic surfactants include at least one amphoteric surfactant, such as cocamidopropyl betaine.

[0048] The surfactant may exhibit any hydrophilic-lipophilic balance ("HLB"). In one example, the surfactant may exhibit an HLB (e.g., calculated, estimated or measured) in the range of about 4 to about 30, such as about 4 to about 6, about 5 to about 7, about 6 to about 8, about 7 to about 9, about 8 to about 10, about 9 to about 11, about 10 to about 12, about 11 to about 13, about 12 to about 14, about 23 to about 15, about 14 to about 16, about 15 to about 17, about 16 to about 18, about 17 to about 19, about 18 to about 20, about 19 to about 21, about 20 to about 23, about 22 to about 25, about 24 to about 27, or about 26 to 30. In one embodiment, the surfactant may exhibit an HLB greater than 30. This is in contrast to U.S. Pat. No. 6,423,667, which discloses the use of nonionic surfactants with an HLB of 10-15. Unlike the compositions disclosed in US 6,423,667, the surfactants of the present invention exhibit an HLB of less than 10 (e.g., 4 to 9) or an HLB of greater than 15 (e.g., 16 to 30), because MAAC includes MSO, MAAC can exhibit multiple functions and can provide a composition with specific solubility characteristics when added to water. Surfactants with HLB values ​​of about 4-9 are more likely to be hydrophobic than surfactants with HLB values ​​greater than 10, while surfactants with HLB values ​​of 16 to about 30 are more hydrophilic than surfactants with HLB values ​​less than 15. The HLB of the surfactant included in the MAAC can depend on the selected function of the MAAC, because the nature of the surfactant and, by extension, how the surfactant promotes the function of the MAAC can depend on the HLB of the surfactant. For example, when an oil-soluble surfactant is required, or when it is desired that the surfactant be used as an oil-in-water emulsifier or wetting agent, the MAAC disclosed herein may include a surfactant with an HLB of about 4-9. For example, when a water-soluble surfactant is desired, or when it is desired that the surfactant function as an oil-in-water emulsifier or stabilizer, the MAAC disclosed herein may include a surfactant having an HLB of 16-30.

[0049] The need for MAAC to include at least one surfactant and / or the amount of surfactant included in MAAC can depend on several factors. In one example, the need and amount of at least one surfactant can depend on the dispersibility of solid agricultural particles in a liquid component when MAAC does not contain a surfactant. For example, when MAAC does not contain a surfactant, solid agricultural particles can be at least partially dispersed in a liquid component, MAAC may not contain a surfactant or a relatively small amount of a surfactant, or when MAAC does not contain a surfactant, solid agricultural particles form agglomerates in a liquid component, MAAC may contain a relatively large amount of a surfactant. In one example, the need and amount of at least one surfactant can depend on the average particle size of the solid agricultural particles. For example, reducing the average particle size of the solid agricultural particles can reduce the need and / or amount of surfactants contained in MAAC. In one example, the need and amount of surfactants can depend on the viscosity of MAAC. For example, increasing the viscosity of MAAC can reduce the need and / or amount of surfactants in MAAC. When MAAC is a solid, paste or viscous liquid (e.g., a viscous suspension, an emulsion, etc.) relative to a less viscous liquid, no surfactant or only a small amount of surfactant may be required.

[0050] Additional components

[0051] MAAC may include one or more other components in addition to the liquid component, the solid agricultural particles and the optional surfactant. For example, MAAC may include one or more emulsifiers, rheology modifiers, defoamer compositions, pesticides soluble in the liquid component, active ingredients soluble in the liquid component, other solid agricultural particles soluble in the liquid component, or water-activated compositions. The pesticide, active ingredient, and / or solid agricultural particle is soluble in the liquid component when at least about 50 wt.%, at least about 75 wt.%, or about 100 wt.% of the pesticide, active ingredient, and / or solid agricultural particle is soluble in the liquid component.

[0052] In one embodiment, MAAC may include one or more rheology modifiers that are selected to affect the average droplet size of the agricultural spray dispensed from the nozzle. For example, dispensing agricultural sprays from the nozzle may form small droplets (e.g., droplets with a diameter of less than 150 μm) that are prone to drifting away from the target. The rheology modifier added to MAAC can be selected to reduce the number of small droplets formed. However, it should be noted that adding a rheology modifier to MAAC may increase the number of ultra-coarse droplets (e.g., droplets with a diameter greater than 622 μm), which may reduce the coverage of the agricultural spray. In order to offset the increased number of ultra-coarse droplets, MAAC may also include a perforation-assisted adjuvant (e.g., MSO or other oils). In one embodiment, one or more rheology modifiers may be added to improve the stability of MAAC.

[0053] Rheology modifiers added to MAAC may include, but are not limited to, polymers, Newtonian reaction polymers, (e.g., polyacrylamide), monosaccharides, polysaccharides (e.g., colloidal polysaccharides, starches, vegetable gums, pectins), glucose, fructose, galactose, mannose, lactose, fructose, xylose, amylose, raffinose, maltotriose, glucoside, trehalose, sugar alcohols (e.g., mannitol, sorbitol, xylitol, and maltitol), sugar-containing compositions (e.g., molasses and honey), guar gum (e.g., crop-based guar gum or modified guar gum), xanthan gum, cellulose, locust bean, alginates, agar, carrageenan, gum arabic, dimethylpolysiloxane, silicon dioxide, and derivatives and combinations thereof. In a more specific example, the rheology modifier includes guar gum, modified guar gum and / or polyacrylamide because guar gum, modified guar gum and / or polyacrylamide can more effectively reduce the number of fine droplets and control the number of ultra-coarse droplets compared to at least some other rheology modifiers disclosed herein.

[0054] The rheology modifier may be present in the MAAC in an amount of about 0.25 to about 6.0% (v / v), about 0.25 to about 0.75% (v / v), about 0.5 to about 1.0% (v / v), about 0.75 to about 1.5% (v / v), about 0.5 to about 5% (v / v), about 0.5 to about 4.0% (v / v), about 0.5 to about 3.0% (v / v), about 0.5% to about 2.0% (v / v), about 1.0 to about 5.0% (v / v), about 1.0 to about 4.0% (v / v), about 1.0 to about 3.5% of the adjuvant. (v / v) or about 1.0 to about 3.25% (v / v), about 1.0 to about 3.0% (v / v), about 1.0 to about 2.75% (v / v), about 1.25 to about 4.5% (v / v), about 1.5 to about 4.0% (v / v), about 2.0 to about 4.0% (v / v), about 2.0 to about 4.0% (v / v), up to about 6% (v / v), up to about 5.0% (v / v), up to about 4.0% (v / v), up to about 3.5% (v / v), up to about 3.0% (v / v) or up to about 2.0% (v / v). Alternatively, the rheology modifier can be present in the MAAC at any range of the above levels (e.g., about 1.25 to about 2.75% (v / v)). With respect to MAAC, the rheology modifier may be present in an amount of about 0.0025 to about 0.08 g / ml, about 0.0025 to about 0.0075 g / ml, about 0.005 to about 0.01 g / ml, about 0.0075 to about 0.015 g / ml, about 0.0005 to about 0.065 g / ml, about 0.0005 to about 0.05 g / ml, about 0.0005 to about 0.04 g / ml, about 0.0005 to about 0.04 g / ml, about 0.0005 to about 0.02 g / ml. / ml, about 0.01 to about 0.065 g / ml, about 0.01 to about 0.06 g / ml, about 0.01 to about 0.05 g / ml, about 0.01 to about 0.04 g / ml, about 0.01 to about 0.03 g / ml, about 0.02 to about 0.04 g / ml, about 0.03 to about 0.05 g / ml, about 0.04 to about 0.06 g / ml, about 0.05 to about 0.075 g / ml, less than about 0.0025 g / ml or greater than about 0.08 g / ml. The amount of rheology modifier present in MAAC can depend on the type of rheology modifier, the purpose of the rheology modifier or the type of drift reduction technology used (e.g., polymer to emulsion).

[0055] In one embodiment, for an agricultural spray (e.g., tank mix) containing the MAAC including a rheology modifier, the rheology modifier can be present in an amount of about 0.001 to about 0.040% (v / v), about 0.001 to about 0.003% (v / v), about 0.002 to about 0.004% (v / v), about 0.003 to about 0.005% (v / v), about 0.0045 to about 0.036% (v / v), about 0.0045 to about 0.032% (v / v), about 0.006 to about 0.030% (v / v), about 0.008 to about 0.025% (v / v) of the agricultural spray. ), about 0.009 to about 0.020% (v / v), about 0.009 to about 0.016% (v / v), about 0.009 to about 0.014% (v / v), about 0.009 to about 0.013% (v / v), about 0.009 to about 0.011% (v / v), up to about 0.040% (v / v), up to about 0.035% (v / v), up to about 0.032% (v / v), up to about 0.030% (v / v), up to about 0.025% (v / v), up to about 0.020% (v / v) or up to about 0.016% (v / v) in the agricultural spray. Alternatively, the rheology modifier can be present in the agricultural spray at any integer range of the aforementioned levels (e.g., about 0.009 to about 0.032 (v / v)). For MAAC agricultural sprays including rheology modifiers, the presence of rheology modifiers ranges from 0.2×10 -4 About 5×10 -4 g / ml, about 0.2×10 -4 About 5×10 -4 g / ml, about 0.2×10 -4 to about 0.5×104 g / ml, about 0.4×10 -4 About 0.7×10 -4 g / ml, about 0.5×10 -4 About 1×10 -4 g / ml, about 0.7×10 -4 About 1.5×10 -4 g / ml, about 0.5×10 - 4 g / ml to about 3×10 -4 g / ml, about 0.5×10 -4 About 2×10 -4 g / ml, about 1.0×10 -4 About 1.4×10 -4 g / ml, about 1.2×10 -4 About 1.5×10 -4 g / ml, about 1.4×10 -4About 1.7×10 -4 g / ml, about 1.5×10 -4 About 2.0×10 - 4 g / ml, about 1.7×10 -4 About 2.2×10 -4 g / ml, about 2.0×10 -4 About 2.6×10 -4 g / ml, 2.2×10 -4 About 2.7×10 -4 g / ml, about 2.6 10 -4 About 3×10 -4 g / ml, less than about 0.2x10 -4 g / ml or greater than 5x10 -4 The amount of rheology modifier included in an agricultural spray, including MAAC containing a rheology modifier, may depend on the type of rheology modifier, the purpose of the rheology modifier, or the type of drift reduction technology used (e.g., polymer versus emulsion).

[0056] The amount of rheology modifier in MAAC or agricultural spray can be selected to reduce the number of fine droplets and / or control at least one of the number of super coarse droplets. The amount of rheology modifier can be selected based on the number of required fine droplets and / or super coarse droplets. Generally, increasing the amount of rheology modifier will reduce the number of fine droplets and increase the number of super coarse droplets. The amount of rheology modifier can also be selected based on the amount of perforation auxiliary adjuvant mixed with the rheology modifier. For example, generally, increasing the amount of perforation auxiliary adjuvant will reduce the number of super coarse droplets, thereby allowing the amount of rheology modifier to increase. However, the combination of rheology modifier and perforation auxiliary adjuvant can have certain compositions (e.g., optimal conditions), wherein increasing or reducing the amount of rheology modifier and / or perforation auxiliary adjuvant can increase the number of fine droplets and / or the number of super coarse droplets. Additionally, the amount of the rheology modifier can be selected based on the agricultural nozzle or agricultural spray used to spray the MAAC and the pesticide mixed with the MAAC.

[0057] Other examples of rheology modifiers and adjuvant compositions including rheology modifiers are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 857,145, filed December 28, 2017; U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 023,790, filed June 29, 2018; and U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 198,349, filed November 21, 2018, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. As previously discussed, the liquid component, and by extension, MAAC, may be anhydrous. When the liquid component does not include water, the additional components of the MAAC may include at least one water-sensitive component (e.g., a water-activated composition, a water-inactivated composition, a composition that degrades or chemically reacts with water, etc.). Examples of the water-sensitive component can include spores, bacteria, 2,4-D herbicides, acisulfuron, atrazine, bromoxynil, chlorsulfuron, chlorsulfuron, clesodine, isothiazone, chlorsulfuron, fluazifop, cypermethrin, glufosinate, chlorpyrifos, lactofen, mesotrione, metsulfuron, pendimethalin, resulsulfuron, flubensulfuron, paracetamol, thifensulfuron. The water-sensitive component can be added to MAAC when the water-sensitive component is in an initial state (e.g., a dormant state for a water-activated component or an active state for a water-passivating component). When the water-sensitive component is exposed to water (e.g., water present in an agricultural spray), the water-sensitive component can be configured to switch to a second state (e.g., an activated state of a water-activated component or a dormant state of a water-passivating component). In one embodiment, compared to when the water-sensitive component is in an active state, when the water-sensitive component is in an initial state, the water-sensitive component can exhibit a longer lifespan. Adding a water-sensitive component to MAAC that does not contain water may increase the shelf life of the MAAC containing the water-sensitive component compared to MAAC containing water.

[0058] In one embodiment, additional components of MAAC may include inert components, including but not limited to: solvents (e.g., isopropanol and / or isobutanol), propylene glycol, polysiloxane foam inhibitors (Si) and silica (e.g., modified silica). These inert components may be at least one of one or more non-functional agents, one or more surfactant additives, one or more structural aids (which provide additional structure to MAAC to inhibit the sedimentation of solid agricultural particles, e.g., silica), and / or one or more formulation aids (e.g., for reducing freezing temperatures). The inert components may be present in the range of about 1 to about 30% (v / v) of the adjuvant composition. Other inert components may include one or more antifoaming agents or defoaming agents, which may be present in MAAC and may include but are not limited to silicone-based defoaming agents. These components may be present in the range of about 0.001% to about 1.0% (v / v) of MAAC. Antimicrobial agents are another class of inert ingredients that may be present in MAAC and may include 1,2-benzothiazolin-3-one in dipropylene glycol (antimicrobial agents such as Proxel TM GXL, available from Arch Biocides, Tumourna, Georgia). These components may be present in the range of about 0.01 to about 0.25% (v / v) of MAAC.

[0059] In one embodiment, additional components of the MAAC may include one or more pesticides (e.g., herbicides, insecticides, and / or fungicides). Some herbicides include various forms of glyphosate (e.g., N-(phosphonomethyl)glycine), including salts, esters, or other derivatives thereof. Examples of glyphosate products include: its potassium salt form (e.g., and ), dimethylamine salt form (e.g., ), isopropylamine salt forms (e.g., 5plus), and glyphosate with other pesticides (e.g., 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) (e.g., Enlist Duo TM )) and dicamba (e.g. Xtend)). Other herbicides include, but are not limited to, sodium salt of bentazon (3-(1-methylethyl)-1H-2,1,3-benzothiadiazin-4(3H)-one-2,2-dioxide) in various forms (including salts, esters or other derivatives thereof) (e.g., ); diglycolamine salt of 3,6-dichloro-o-anisic acid (e.g., Blue); 3,6-dichloro-2-methoxybenzoic acid (e.g., Dicamba, EnginiaTM); diglycolamine salt of dicamba (e.g. ); 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D); 1-chloro-3-ethylamino-5-isopropylamino-2,4,6-triazine (atrazine); amide herbicides; arsenic herbicides; carbamate and thiocarbamate herbicides; carboxylic acid herbicides; dinitroaniline herbicides; heterocyclic nitrogen herbicides; organophosphate compounds; urea herbicides; quaternary ammonium herbicides; 5-[2-chloro-4-(trifluoromethyl)phenoxy]-N-(methylsulfonyl)-2-nitrobenzamide (fomesafen); and temozolomide (e.g. ).

[0060] Additionally or alternatively, the herbicide may include an insecticide and / or a fungicide. Insecticides that may be used with the disclosed adjuvant compositions for reducing drift include, but are not limited to: pyrethroid insecticides (e.g., bifenthrin); pyrethrins or other botanicals (e.g., D-limonene, linalool, ryania, rotenone, eugenol (clove oil)); chloronicotinoids; essential oils (e.g., lemongrass, wintergreen oil, rosemary, cinnamon, sesame, thyme, cedar oil, and capsaicin); neem oils (e.g., azadirachtin); nicotine; microbial products (e.g., Bacillus thuringiensis and Beauveria bassiana); oxadiazines (e.g., indoxacarb); para-carboxamides (e.g., chlorfenapyr); Amine); juvenile hormone mimetics (e.g., fenoxycarb, pyriproxyfen, methoprene and methoprene); pyrroles (e.g., chlorfenapyr); phenylpyrazoles (e.g., fipronil); organophosphates (e.g., malathion and chlorpyrifos); inorganic substances (e.g., sulfur, dormant and horticultural oil); insect growth regulators, such as chitin synthesis inhibitors (e.g., hexaflumuron; perflumuron; diflubenzuron; buprofezin; cyprodinil; and fluphenylhydrazine); acaricides, such as acaricides (e.g., avermectin); and ixodicides, used alone or in any combination with the composition of the present invention. Fungicides may include: fluopyrab, pyraclostrobin, propiconazole, trifloxystrobin, prothioconazole, 1,2-propylene glycol, azoxystrobin (e.g., AMP, SC, ).

[0061] Other pesticide additives may include nematicides, plant growth regulators, mosquito repellents, desiccants and defoliants.

[0062] Number of components in MAAC

[0063] As previously discussed, MAAC can include a wider range of component quantities and compositions (e.g., liquid components, solid agricultural particles, surfactants, other additional components) than non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant compositions that include solid agricultural particles. For example, MAAC can include a wider range of component quantities and compositions because the solid agricultural particles are dispersed in the liquid component rather than dissolving the solid agricultural particles in the liquid.

[0064] The solid agricultural particles may comprise about 0.5 wt.% to about 99 wt.% of MAAC. For example, the solid agricultural particles may comprise about 0.5 wt.% to about 2.5 wt.%, about 1 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, about 2.5 wt.% to about 7.5 wt.%, about 5 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, about 7.5 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, about 10 wt.% to about 20 wt.%, about 15 wt.% to about 25 wt.%, about 20 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, about 25 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, about 30 wt.% to about 40 wt.%, about 35 wt.% to about 45 wt.%, about 40 wt.% to about 50 wt.%, about 45 wt.% to about 60 wt.%, about 50 wt.% to about 70 wt.%, about 60 wt.% to about 80 wt.%, about 70 wt.% to about 90 wt.%, or about 80 wt.% to about 99 wt.% of MAAC. In one embodiment, the amount of solid agricultural particles in MAAC can be less than or greater than the solubility of the solid agricultural particles in water. For example, when the solid agricultural particles include AMS, the amount of AMS in MAAC can be less than or greater than 42 wt.%, or greater than 45 wt.%. In such examples, MAAC can exhibit at least some of the functions of non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant compositions comprising AMS dissolved in water and / or at least some of the functions that non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant compositions comprising AMS dissolved in water cannot exhibit.

[0065] The amount of solid agricultural particles dispersed in the liquid component can be selected based on several factors. In one example, as will be discussed in more detail below, the number of solid agricultural particles dispersed in the liquid component can depend on the desired function of MAAC. In one instance, the amount of solid agricultural particles dispersed in the liquid component can depend on the desired MAAC viscosity. For example, when the desired MAAC viscosity is relatively high (e.g., MAAC is a high viscosity liquid, paste or solid), the amount of solid agricultural particles can be relatively high (e.g., greater than about 50wt.%, greater than about 70wt.% or greater than about 80wt.%), and when the desired MAAC viscosity is relatively low, the number of solid agricultural particles may be relatively low (e.g., less than about 60wt.%, less than about 50wt.%, less than about 40wt.%, less than about 30wt.%, less than about 20wt.% or less than about 10wt.%). In one example, the amount of solid agricultural particles in MAAC may depend on the composition of the liquid component. For example, when the liquid component is an active ingredient, the amount of solid agricultural particles in MAAC can be lower than when the liquid component is an inactive ingredient. In one example, the amount of solid agricultural particles in the MAAC can depend on the particle size of the solid agricultural particles.

[0066] The liquid component and the surfactant can form about 1wt.% to about 99.5wt.% of MAAC together. For example, the liquid component and the surfactant can form about 1wt.% to about 15wt.%, about 10wt.% to about 20wt.%, about 15wt.% to about 25wt.%, about 20wt.% to about 30wt.%, about 25wt.% to about 35wt.%, about 30wt.% to about 40wt.%, about 35wt.% to about 45wt.%, about 40wt.% to about 50wt.%, about 45wt.% to about 60wt.%, about 50wt.% to about 70wt.%, about 60wt.% to about 80wt.%, about 70wt.% to about 90wt.% or about 80wt.% to about 99.5wt. of MAAC. The amount of liquid components and surfactants present in MAAC may depend on several factors. In one embodiment, the amount of liquid components and surfactant forms of MAAC can depend on the amount of solid agricultural particles in MAAC. For example, the liquid component and the surfactant can form a significant portion of the MAAC that is not occupied by the solid agricultural particles (e.g., at least 50 wt.%, more preferably at least 75 wt.%, or more preferably at least 90 wt.%). In one embodiment, the amount of liquid component and surfactant that form the MAAC can depend on the composition of the liquid component. For example, the liquid component can be an active ingredient (e.g., MSO), which allows the MAAC to include a larger amount of the liquid component than if the liquid component is an inactive ingredient.

[0067] In one embodiment, the liquid component can form at least about 0.5wt.%, such as at least about 40wt.%, at least about 50wt.%, at least about 60wt.%, at least about 70wt.%, at least about 80wt.%, at least about 90wt.%, at least about 95wt.%, at least about 99wt.%, 100wt.% (e.g., the liquid component and the surfactant mixture only include the liquid component), or in the range of about 0.5wt.% to about 50wt.%, about 40wt.% to about 60wt.%, about 50wt.% to about 70wt.%, about 60wt.% to about 80wt.%, about 70wt.% to about 90wt.%, about 80wt.% to about 95wt.%, about 90wt.% to about 99wt.%, or about 95wt.% to 100wt.%. The amount of the liquid component in MAAC relative to the surfactant in MAAC can depend on several factors. In one example, when there is no surfactant, the relative amounts of the liquid component and the surfactant can depend on the dispersibility of the solid agricultural particles in the liquid component. For example, when the solid agricultural particles can be easily dispersed in the liquid component without the surfactant, the MAAC can contain more liquid components relative to the surfactant, compared to the situation where the solid agricultural particles form agglomerates in the liquid component without the surfactant. In one example, the relative amounts of the liquid component and the surfactant can depend on the composition of the liquid component. For example, some liquid components (e.g., some non-MSO liquid components) may be limited by the composition of the surfactants that can be mixed with them. The limitation of the surfactant composition may require the use of less efficient surfactants, and such MAAC must contain relatively more surfactants than MAAC containing liquid components without this limitation. In one example, the relative amounts of the liquid component and the surfactant can depend on the composition of the surfactant, because some surfactants can disperse the solid agricultural particles in the liquid component more effectively than other surfactants (e.g., such MAAC requires less surfactant).

[0068] The amount of additional elements optionally added to MAAC can constitute up to about 50 wt.%, such as up to about 40 wt.%, up to about 30 wt.%, up to about 20 wt.%, up to about 10 wt.%, up to about 5 wt.%, up to about 1 wt.%, or in the range of about 0.1 wt.% to about 1 wt.%, about 0.5 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, about 1 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, or about 20 wt.% to about 40 wt.%. The amount of additional elements may depend on the purpose of the additional elements, the desired function of MAAC, the composition and amount of solid agricultural particles in MAAC, the composition and amount of liquid components in MAAC, the amount and composition of surfactants, the application of MAAC, the spraying method of MAAC and / or the desired use rate of MAAC.

[0069] MAAC's multiple functions

[0070] MAAC may have multiple functions. For example, MAAC can be at least one of a water quality improver, a surfactant, a high surfactant oil concentrate, a crop oil concentrate, an adjuvant to reduce drift and sedimentation, a buffer, an acidulant, a nitrogen source, a compatibilizer, a basic mixture, an adjuvant plus foliar fertilizer, a micronutrient, a macronutrient, or a flavor. For example, MAAC can be at least two of a water quality improver, a surfactant, a high surfactant oil concentrate, a crop oil concentrate, an adjuvant to reduce drift and sedimentation, a buffer, an acidulant, a nitrogen source, a compatibilizer, a basic mixture, an adjuvant plus foliar fertilizer, a micronutrient, a macronutrient, a flavor, a defoamer, an antifoamer, an odor masking agent, a spreading and sticking agent, a marker, a tank cleaner, a pH adjuster, or a utility adjuvant. The function of the MAAC can be selected by controllably varying the amount and composition of the solid agricultural particles present in the MAAC, the amount and composition of the liquid component, the composition and amount of the surfactant present in the MAAC, or at least one of the amount, composition and purpose of the MAAC or other components present in the MAAC.

[0071] In one embodiment, MAAC is a water quality improver. Water quality improvers are used with hard water to reduce scaling of hard minerals, sediments and other impurities in the water that can reduce the performance of agricultural sprays. For example, when AMS is used as a water quality regulator, AMS captures hard water ions and provides ammonium ions to improve absorption. In such an embodiment, the solid agricultural particles can constitute at least about 40wt.% to about 80wt.% of MAAC, such as in the range of about 50wt.% to about 75wt.%, or about 60wt.% to about 70wt.%. As previously described, when MAAC is a water quality regulator, the surfactant forming MAAC may include at least one ionic surfactant, at least one amphoteric surfactant, or one or more surfactants having an HLB of about 4 to 30.

[0072] In one embodiment, the MAAC is a surfactant. Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water, which is beneficial for keeping agricultural sprays on the target (e.g., as opposed to rolling off the leaves into the soil) and / or increasing the wetting agent of the droplets spreading on the target surface (e.g., the increase in the surface area of ​​the droplets may improve the efficacy). In such an embodiment, the solid agricultural particles can constitute at least about 40 wt.% to about 80 wt.% of the MAAC, such as in the range of about 50 wt.% to about 75 wt.%, or about 60 wt.% to about 70 wt.%.

[0073] In one embodiment, the MAAC is a high surfactant oil concentrate ("HSOC"). HSOCs comprise MSO or other oils and emulsifiers and are typically used with post-emergence pesticides (e.g., herbicides, fungicides, insecticides) preferably with MSO or other oils as adjuvants. HSOCs can improve the efficacy of typically oil-soluble active ingredients by increasing absorption by target plants. The surfactants in HSOCs can emulsify the oil in the aqueous tank mix rather than changing the surface tension of the tank mix. In such embodiments, the solid agricultural particles can constitute at least about 40 wt.% to about 80 wt.% of the MAAC, such as in the range of about 50 wt.% to about 75 wt.%, or about 60 wt.% to about 70 wt.%.

[0074] In one embodiment, the MAAC is a crop oil concentrate (COC). COC promotes leaf penetration of agricultural sprays. COC differs from HSOC in that COC contains less surfactant and / or emulsifier than HSOC, and the required use rate of COC is higher than HSOC. In such an embodiment, the solid agricultural particles can constitute at least about 40 wt.% to about 80 wt.% of the MAAC, such as in the range of about 50 wt.% to about 75 wt.%, or about 60 wt.% to about 70 wt.%.

[0075] In one embodiment, the MAAC is an adjuvant that reduces drift and deposition. The adjuvant that reduces drift and deposition improves spray deposition on the intended target and reduces spray drift. The MAAC may also include any rheology modifier disclosed herein. As previously described, when MAAC is an adjuvant that reduces drift and deposition, the surfactant forming the MAAC may include at least one ionic surfactant, at least one amphoteric surfactant, or one or more surfactants having an HLB of about 4 to 30.

[0076] In one embodiment, when used, MAAC as an adjuvant to reduce drift and deposition can cause an agricultural spray including MAAC to produce fewer fine droplets (e.g., droplets less than 150 μm in diameter) and either reduce, maintain, or increase the number of ultra-coarse droplets (e.g., droplets greater than 622 μm in diameter) by up to 100 percentage points (e.g., up to 75 percentage points, up to 50 percentage points, up to 25 percentage points, or up to 15 percentage points) compared to a substantially similar agricultural spray delivered under the same conditions (e.g., delivered from the same nozzle at the same pressure and flow rate) that does not include MAAC. With respect to the management of the level of ultra-coarse droplets produced, an increase of up to 100 percentage points, more particularly up to 50 percentage points, and more particularly up to 15 percentage points in ultra-coarse droplets compared to a substantially similar agricultural spray sprayed under the same conditions that does not include MAAC disclosed herein is an acceptable increase as long as there is a simultaneous reduction in the number of fine droplets relative to when spraying a substantially similar agricultural spray that does not include MAAC.

[0077] Intended Use

[0078] MAAC can be used for agricultural spraying applications, such as spraying seeds, soil, leaves and fruits. Agricultural sprays containing the disclosed MAAC can be delivered using ground and / or aerial spray applications. Application can be during the vegetative state, during planting and / or after planting.

[0079] In some embodiments, MAAC can be provided as an in-tank mixture of solid agricultural particles dispersed in at least a liquid component. Additionally or alternatively, the MAAC can be included in a pesticide or other agricultural mixture for spray application. In alternative embodiments, the solid agricultural particles and the liquid component can be provided separately and mixed before use. The mixing can be performed under stirring.

[0080] Prior to use, MAAC can be mixed (e.g., tank mixed) with, for example, water, water quality improvers, pesticides, micronutrients, antimicrobial compositions, inert components, or other components of agricultural sprays. Mixing can be performed under stirring. Additionally or alternatively, depending on the climate, mixing can be performed at about 33°F to about 100°F or at ambient temperature (e.g., about 70°F to 90°F), or can be performed at a high temperature above 90°F. Mixing MAAC with other components of agricultural sprays (water) can result in spontaneous emulsification and / or rapid dissolution of MAAC in the components of agricultural sprays. If MAAC includes a water-activated component, mixing MAAC disclosed herein with other components of agricultural sprays can also activate the water-activated component of MAAC.

[0081] The amount of MAAC mixed with other ingredients of the agricultural spray may depend on the function of the MAAC and the amount (e.g., concentration) of the active ingredient present in the MAAC. In one embodiment, the amount of MAAC mixed with other components of the agricultural spray may be less (e.g., up to three times) than a similar non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant composition comprising solid agricultural particles dissolved in water. For example, a non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant component comprising AMS dissolved in water includes up to 41 wt.% AMS. However, the MAAC disclosed herein may include up to 90 wt.% AMS. In addition, the MAAC disclosed herein may also include a liquid component as an active ingredient, while the water in the non-MAAC agricultural adjuvant composition is an inactive ingredient.

[0082] Agricultural nozzles that can spray the agricultural sprays of the present disclosure can vary in size, shape, material, and other characteristics. Examples of agricultural nozzles that can be used include nozzles that reduce drift, such as nozzles that produce flat fan sprays. Agricultural nozzles can include nozzles produced by TeeJet (TPI 11004 nozzle, XR11002-XR TeeJet extended range flat nozzle, AIXR11004-AIXR TeeJet nozzle), Hypro, Greenleaf, Wilger, Lechler, including nozzle models such as AIXR, AI, TT, UCD, etc. The classification of nozzles for agricultural spraying includes but is not limited to: extra fine (XF), purple, VMD is about 50μm; extra fine (VF), red, VMD <136μm; fine (F), orange, VMD is 136-177μm; medium (M), yellow, VMD is 177-218μm; coarse (C), blue, VMD is 218-349μm; extra coarse (VC), green, VMD is 349-428μm; extra coarse (EC), white, VMD is 428-622μm; ultra coarse (UC), black, VMD >622μm.

[0083] Exemplary flow rates through the nozzles include about 0.0125 to about 2.0 gallons per minute (gpm) per nozzle. As a specific example, the flow rate of the nozzles can be variable and can range from about 0.2 to about 1.5 gpm per nozzle.

[0084] The nozzle may deliver the spray at a spray angle of about 65° to about 140°, up to about 140°, about 90°, about 100°, about 110°, about 120°, about 130°, or about 140°.

[0085] The nozzle can be operated at a fluid pressure of up to 115 psi, or a fluid pressure of about 15 to about 115 psi, about 30 to about 60 psi, or a fluid pressure of about 15, about 20, about 30, about 40, about 50, about 60, about 70, about 80, about 90, about 100, about 110 psi, or any integer range of the foregoing pressure levels (e.g., about 15 to about 60 psi).

[0086] The following working examples provide further details in conjunction with the above specific examples.

[0087] Working Examples 1-3

[0088] Working Examples 1-3 each formed about 100 g of granular ammonium sulfate, which was ground in an IKA M 20 Universal Mill for 60 seconds each. Working Examples 1-3 were measured on three different particle size analysis instrument settings. Table 1 shows the particle size analysis results for Working Examples 1-3.

[0089] Table 1

[0090]

[0091] Working Example 4

[0092] Working Example 4 was formed by combining AMS and a commercially available HSOC adjuvant (i.e., MSO source) at a weight: volume ratio of about 1:10 to form a mixture. The mixture was milled using a Silverson L5MA at 5000 RPM for 5 minutes to reduce the particle size of AMS. The results of the milling clearly showed that the particle size of AMS in the HSOC adjuvant was reduced to a fine particle size and the bulk liquid was well tumbled, thereby achieving a thorough mixing of AMS and HSOC adjuvant.

[0093] When high shear was stopped, the AMS particles appeared to flocculate and settle in the HSOC adjuvant over the course of several minutes. However, the settled AMS particles could be easily resuspended by gentle agitation (manual mixing with a spatula).

[0094] Example 4 was dropped into tap water using a pipette to form a pot mix. Working Example 4 formed an emulsion in tap water without stirring. The pot mix including Working Example 4 was filtered through #3 filter paper to observe whether there were any AMS particles that did not dissolve in the tap water. No AMS particles remained on the filter paper, indicating that AMS was easily dissolved in tap water.

[0095] Working Example 5

[0096] Working Example 5 was formed by mixing AMS with the commercially available HSOC adjuvant of Working Example 4 at a weight / volume ratio of about 1:1. The mixture was milled using a Silverson L5MA at 5000 RPM for 5 minutes to reduce the particle size of AMS. The results of the milling clearly showed that the particle size of AMS was not reduced to the fine particle size of Working Example 4. Working Example 5 exhibited high shear thinning behavior and the bulk liquid flowability was very poor when batch milled in the Silverson L5MA.

[0097] Example 5 was dropped into tap water using a pipette to form a pot mix. Working Example 5 immediately sank to the bottom of the beaker containing the pot mix, indicating that the larger particle size inhibited the rapid dissolution of Working Example 5 in water.

[0098] Working Example 6

[0099] Working Example 6 was formed by mixing AMS with the commercially available HSOC adjuvant of Working Example 4 in a weight / volume ratio of about 1:1. Working Example 6 was subjected to additional high shear grinding to achieve a small particle size and produce a concentrated formulation (AMS:HSOC ratio of 1:1). In particular, 200 g of Example 6 was ground at 6000 RPM for 1 minute, 7000 RPM for 2 minutes, and 8000 RPM for about 30 seconds. Working Example 6 was filtered using #42 filter paper to filter out AMS from the HSOC adjuvant. The AMS was washed 3 times with acetone and dried at 40°C to obtain a fine powder. The dried AMS powder was then sieved through a 300 μm sieve.

[0100] Working Example 6 exhibited poor bulk liquid turnover prior to filtering, washing and drying the AMS powder. Working Example 6 also exhibited higher temperatures than Working Example 5 due to the milling process. Example 6 did not exhibit significantly smaller particle size compared to Example 5.

[0101] Working Examples 7-9

[0102] Working Example 6 was filtered using #42 filter paper to filter out AMS from the HSOC adjuvant. The AMS was washed 3 times with acetone and dried at 40°C to obtain a fine powder. The dried AMS powder was then sieved through a 300 μm sieve. The sieved AMS was then added to the HSOC adjuvant of Example 4 to form Examples 7-9. In particular, Working Example 7 exhibited a weight ratio of AMS to HSOC adjuvant of 1:1, Working Example 8 exhibited a weight ratio of AMS to HSOC adjuvant of 3:2, and Working Example 9 exhibited a weight ratio of AMS to HSOC adjuvant of 3:2. Working Example 7 is a pourable liquid, Working Example 8 is a fluid paste, and Working Example 9 is a paste. In this way, Working Examples 7-9 demonstrate that increasing the ratio of AMS to HSOC adjuvant can increase the viscosity of the mixture.

[0103] Working Example 10

[0104] AMS was dry milled for 60 seconds using an IKA M 20 Universal Mill, and then 100 g of AMS was mixed in MSO at a weight ratio of 1:1 to form Working Example 10. No surfactant was added to Example 10. Working Example 10 remained in a fluid state. Working Example 10 shows that AMS is easily dispersed in MSO.

[0105] Working Example 11

[0106] AMS was dry milled for 60 seconds using an IKA M 20 Universal Mill and then mixed in MSO at a weight ratio of 2:1 to form Working Example 11. No surfactant was added to Example 11. Working Example 11 was a paste.

[0107] Example 11 was dropped into tap water using a pipette to form a tank mix. In a large volume of water, working Example 11 formed small spheres of AMS in MSO. Stirring only broke the spheres into smaller spheres, which coalesced as they settled at the bottom of the beaker. After several hours, the AMS finally dissolved in the water.

[0108] Working Example 11 shows that a surfactant may be required to produce a highly concentrated AMS in an MSO formulation. Working Example 11 also shows that a surfactant may also be required to emulsify the MSO in an aqueous tank mix.

[0109] Working Examples 12 and 13

[0110] Working Examples 12 and 13 include a mixture of AMS and a liquid formation in a weight ratio of 1:1. The liquid formation is a mixture of a proprietary surfactant having an HLB of 10-15 and MSO. The liquid formation of Working Example 12 contains 5 wt.% of the surfactant and 95 wt.% of MSO. The liquid formation of Working Example 13 contains 10 wt.% of the surfactant and 90 wt.% of MSO.

[0111] The AMS of Examples 12 and 13 were dry milled in an IKA M 20 universal mill for 60 seconds and then added to the liquid formulation to form a homogenous liquid. Both working Examples 12 and 13 were fairly fluid.

[0112] Drops of Working Examples 12 and 13 were added to a beaker containing tap water to form a tank mix. The drops of Working Examples 12 and 13 both sank to the bottom of the beaker, but then began to break up and disperse spontaneously. Working Examples 12 and 13 were completely dispersed in the tank mix with very slight stirring.

[0113] Working Example 14

[0114] Working Example 9 was pressed into small pellets using a stainless steel pellet press to form Working Example 14. Working Example 14 was gently dropped into a large beaker of water. Working Example 14 sank to the bottom of the beaker but spontaneously began to disperse. With very gentle agitation (shake the beaker gently by hand) Example 14 was completely dispersed.

[0115] Working Examples 15-19

[0116] Working Examples 15-19 each contained 25.03 wt.% MSO, 3.57 wt.% surfactant, and 71.4 wt.% AMS. The surfactant of Working Example 15 was a modified polyether, the surfactant of Working Example 16 was an organically modified polymer, the surfactant of Working Example 17 was a tallow amine ethoxylate with an HLB of 9, the surfactant of Working Example 18 was an alkyl EO / PO copolymer, and the surfactant of Working Example 19 was a difunctional block copolymer surfactant with an HLB of 7-12.

[0117] The AMS of Examples 15-19 were dry milled in an IKA M 20 universal mill for 60 seconds and then added to the liquid components (eg, MSO and surfactant).

[0118] Working Examples 15-19 were visually inspected to determine their viscosity. Working Example 15 was a pourable viscous liquid. Working Example 16 showed agglomeration of the AMS particles. Working Example 17 was a pourable viscous liquid. However, Example 17 exhibited a viscosity less than Example 15. Working Examples 18 and 19 were both thick pastes that were not pourable. Working Examples 15-19 demonstrate that the type of surfactant used in MAAC greatly affects the physical properties of MAAC.

[0119] Working Examples 20-30 and Comparative Examples 1-5

[0120] Working Examples 20-30 each comprised 20 wt.% MSO, 3.33 wt.% Surfactant 1, 10 wt.% Surfactant 2, and 66.7 wt.% AMS. Surfactant 1 was the same for each of Examples 20-30 and was a proprietary surfactant with an estimated HLB of 10-15. The composition of Surfactant 2 was different for each of Working Examples 20-30 and is provided in Table 2. Table 2 also lists the HLB of certain Surfactant 2.

[0121] Table 2

[0122]

[0123]

[0124] The AMS of each of working examples 20-30 was dry ground in an IKA M 20 universal mill for 60 seconds and then added to the liquid components (e.g., MSO and surfactant). Working examples 20-28 and 30 were all flowable liquids. Working example 29 exhibited a paste-like consistency.

[0125] Comparative Example 1 is not a spray and is used to represent crops that were not sprayed. Comparative Example 2 contains only water. Comparative Example 3 is a commercially available AMS-based water conditioner. Comparative Example 4 includes dried AMS. Comparative Example 5 includes the commercially available AMS-based water conditioner of Comparative Example 3, and a HSOC adjuvant.

[0126] Working Examples 20-30 and Comparative Examples 1-5 were studied to determine the effect of Working Examples 20-30 and Comparative Examples 1-5 on the efficacy of glufosinate-based herbicides by creating agricultural tank mixes and applying them to greenhouse grown plants. Working Examples 20-30 and Comparative Examples 2-5 were mixed with glufosinate-based herbicides. In the first batch, working examples 20-30 and comparative examples 2-5 were mixed at 0.75 times the label usage rate. In the second batch, working examples 20-30 and comparative examples 2-5 were mixed with mix.

[0127] Working Examples 20-30 comprised 1% (v / v) of the tank mix. The amount of AMS-based water conditioner in Comparative Examples 3 and 5 was selected so that Comparative Examples 3 and 5 included the same amount of AMS as in each of Working Examples 20-30. The amount of dry AMS in Comparative Example 3 was 3 lbs / acre. The amount of HSOC adjuvant in Comparative Example 5 was the same as the amount of surfactant and MSO in Examples 20-30.

[0128] The first batch was sprayed on cowpea and sorghum at a rate of 15 gal / acre. The second batch was sprayed on cowpea at a rate of 15 gal / acre.

[0129] Table 3 combines information from two batches of working examples 20-30 and comparative examples 1-5. The results are given as a percentage of visual control of the sprayed plants. A 0% control means no visible herbicide damage. A 100% control means that the plants are completely dead. Table 3 demonstrates that the performance of glufosinate-ammonium may vary depending on plant type and environmental conditions (in a greenhouse, depending on the sunlight during the test). Table 3 also shows that the addition of an adjuvant can improve Performance on broadleaf plants (cowpea). Working Examples 20-30 have similar or better performance than Comparative Examples 1-5. In addition, Table 3 shows that the control of grass plants (sorghum) by glufosinate is more difficult and more easily altered by the formulation of the adjuvant.

[0130] Table 3

[0131]

[0132]

[0133] Working Examples 31-41 and Comparative Examples 6-9

[0134] Working Examples 31-41 are the same as Working Examples 20-30, respectively.

[0135] Comparative Example 6 was not a spray and was used to represent crops that did not receive a spray. Comparative Example 7 included water only. Comparative Example 8 included a HSOC adjuvant. Comparative Example 9 included the same HSOC adjuvant as Comparative Example 8 and an AMS-based water quality conditioner.

[0136] Working Examples 31-41 and Comparative Examples 6-9 were studied to determine the effect of Working Examples 31-41 and Comparative Examples 6-9 on the efficacy of pyrethroid-based herbicides by creating agricultural tank mixes and applying them to greenhouse grown plants. Working Examples 31-41 and Comparative Examples 7-9 were mixed with pyrethroid-based herbicides. 3Mix at 1 fl oz per acre.

[0137] Working Examples 31-41 comprised 1% (v / v) of the tank mix. The amount of HSOC adjuvant in Comparative Examples 8 and 9 was the same as the amount of surfactant and MSO in Working Examples 31-41, and the amount of AMS-based water conditioner in Comparative Example 9 was selected so that Comparative Example 9 included the same amount of AMS as Working Examples 31-41.

[0138] Tank mixes of each of Working Examples 31-41 and Comparative Examples 6-9 were sprayed on wheat and corn at an application rate of 15 gallons per acre.

[0139] Table 4 combines information from Test Examples 31-41 and Comparative Examples 6-9. Results are given as a visual control percentage of the sprayed plants. 0% control means no visible herbicide damage. 100% control means that the plant is completely dead. Table 3 shows that the addition of Working Examples 31-41 improves the performance of clethodim on rice plants (wheat and corn). Working Examples 31-41 have similar or better performance than Comparative Examples 6-9.

[0140] Table 4

[0141]

[0142]

[0143] Working Examples 42-52 and Comparative Examples 10 and 11

[0144] Working Examples 42-52 are the same as Working Examples 20-30, respectively.

[0145] Comparative Example 10 contained water only. Comparative Example 11 contained a commercially available drift reducing adjuvant.

[0146] Working Examples 42-52 and Comparative Examples 10 and 11 were placed in water to form tank mixes. Each tank mix also contained 29 fl oz / acre of herbicide Working Examples 42-52 comprised 1% (v / v) of the corresponding tank mixes. Comparative Example 11 formed a corresponding tank mix of 4 fl oz / acre.

[0147] Each tank mix was sprayed through an XR11003 TeeJet nozzle at 10 gpa / acre and 40 psi. The droplet size distribution of each tank mix was measured using laser diffraction.

[0148] Table 5 combines information from Test Examples 42-52 and Comparative Examples 10 and 11. Table 5 shows that Comparative Example 11 did not reduce the volume of fine droplets (droplets with a diameter of <150 microns). Each of Working Examples 42-52 provided some degree of fine droplet reduction depending on the combination of surfactants. Working Examples 42 and 50 reduced the amount of fine droplets by more than 40%. In addition to the benefits of water conditioning and high surfactant oil concentrates, drift reduction performance was demonstrated in Working Examples 20-41.

[0149] Table 5

[0150]

[0151]

[0152] Working Examples 53 and 54, and Comparative Examples 12 and 13

[0153] Comparative Example 12 is a mixture containing water and a glufosinate-based herbicide Select the tank mixture of Comparative Example 12. The amount of Applied at 20 fluid ounces per acre when spraying. Comparative Example 13 is the same tank mix as Comparative Example 12, except that Comparative Example 13 also includes a commercially available adjuvant that reduces drift and sedimentation. The commercially available adjuvant that reduces drift and sedimentation is an MSO-based drift reduction technology that contains both nonionic and anionic surfactants. The amount of the commercially available adjuvant that reduces drift and sedimentation is selected so that when spraying, the commercially available adjuvant that reduces drift and sedimentation is applied at a rate of 4 ounces per acre. Working Examples 53 and 54 are the same tank mixes as Comparative Example 12, except that different MAACs are added to the tank mixes of Working Examples 53 and 54. The MAAC added to Working Examples 53 and 54 consists of 42 wt.% to 90 wt.%, 15 wt.% to 40 wt.% MSO, and 10 wt.% to 15 wt.% of a surfactant mixture. The surfactant blend included a polymeric nonionic dispersant, a polyglycerol ester, isopropyl myristate and a proprietary surfactant blend. MAAC from working examples 53 and 54 comprised 1% by volume of the tank mix.

[0154] Each tank mix was sprayed through an XR11003 TeeJet nozzle at 10 gpa / acre and 40 psi. The droplet size distribution of each tank mix was measured using laser diffraction.

[0155] like Figure 1 As shown, the MAAC of Working Examples 53 and 54 significantly reduced the number of fine droplets that are considered to be driftable compared to Comparative Examples 12 and 13.

[0156] Working Examples 55-62 and Comparative Example 14

[0157] Working Examples 55-62 are the same as Working Examples 42-45 and 47-49, respectively. Comparative Example 14 is the same as Comparative Example 11.

[0158] The viscosity of Working Examples 55-62 and Comparative Example 14 was measured at 0.3 RPM using a Brookfield DV-E viscometer with a LV-4 spindle. Measurements were taken after 5 minutes to ensure steady state. This protocol mimics that of Examples 24-35 of U.S. Patent No. 6,423,667.

[0159] Table 6 shows the viscosity measurement results of Examples 55-62 and Comparative Example 14. Table 6 shows that working Examples 55, 56 and 58-60 and Comparative Example 14 show very low viscosities, which are so low that the Brookfield DV-E viscometer with a LV-4 spindle cannot measure its viscosity, resulting in a viscosity of "0". These results are contrary to the results of U.S. Patent No. 6,423,667, which has a viscosity of at least 100 cP. In other words, the viscosity of many MAACs disclosed herein is significantly less than 100 cP, such as less than about 75 cP, less than about 50 cP or less than about 25 cP.

[0160] Table 6

[0161] sample Viscosity(cP) Comparative Example 14 0 Working Example 55 0 Working Example 56 0 Working Example 57 2630 Working Example 58 0 Working Example 59 0 Working Example 60 0 Working Example 61 15690 Working Example 62 1750

[0162] Working Examples 63-70 and Comparative Example 15

[0163] Working Examples 63-70 are the same as Working Examples 42-45 and 47-50, respectively. Comparative Example 15 is the same as Comparative Example 11.

[0164] The solubility of Working Examples 63-70 and Comparative Example 15 in water was tested by adding 1 mL of Working Examples 63-70 and Comparative Example 15 to 60 mL of tap water in a 100 mL beaker with a 3 / 8 inch x 1.5 inch long magnetic stir bar, rotating at a constant but moderate speed (e.g., 300 RPM). This test is similar to the dissolution test disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,423,667, except that the viscosity of Working Examples 63-70 and Comparative Example 15 was too low to add 0.16 g of Working Examples 63-70 and Comparative Example 15 on a 5 mm x 5 mm wax film sheet. After each of Examples 63-70 and Comparative Example 15 was added to the water, a timer was started. After each of Examples 63-70 and Comparative Example 15 was visually observed to be emulsified (uniform turbid liquid) and dissolved (e.g., no visible particles), the timer was stopped.

[0165] Table 7 shows the results of the dissolution test. Table 7 shows that Examples 63-70 rapidly emulsified and dissolved in tap water, mostly within 30 seconds. This is in contrast to the results of U.S. Patent No. 6,423,667, where the dissolution of most samples took more than 60 seconds. In other words, MAAC can be dissolved in water in less than about 45 seconds or less than 30 seconds (under the experimental conditions disclosed herein). In addition, Table 7 shows that larger amounts of Examples 63-70 can be dispersed in tap water at a faster rate than the smaller amounts of material discussed in U.S. Patent No. 6,423,667.

[0166] Table 7

[0167] sample Dissolution time (seconds) Comparative Example 15 34 Working Example 63 73 Working Example 64 8 Working Example 65 7 Working Example 66 7 Working Example 67 29 Working Example 68 6 Working Example 69 3 Working Example 70 3

[0168] Working Examples 71-75

[0169] Working Examples 71-75 include varying amounts of AMS, MSO, Surfactant 1, and Surfactant 2. For Working Examples 71-75, Surfactant 1 and Surfactant 2 are the same. Surfactant 1 is a proprietary surfactant with an estimated HLB of 10-15. Surfactant 2 is a polyglycerol ester with an HLB of 6.

[0170] The viscosity of Examples 71-75 was tested using the same method as Examples 55-62. The solubility of Working Examples 71-75 was tested using the same method as Working Examples 63-70.

[0171] Table 8 shows the results of the viscosity and dissolution tests for Examples 71-75. Table 8 shows that these particular surfactant blends require at least 3.4 wt.% surfactant to produce an emulsion. The amount of surfactant required will vary depending on the type of surfactant used. Table 8 also shows that a wide variety of compositions can be used to prepare formulations that can be emulsified / dissolved in water to make an agricultural tank mix.

[0172] Table 8

[0173]

[0174] Working Examples 76-79

[0175] Working Examples 76-79 are the same as Working Examples 20, 21, 23 and 25, respectively. Working Examples 76-79 were kept at 54°C for 12 days. After 12 days, the amount of oil separation was observed to determine the stability of Working Examples 76-79.

[0176] Table 9 shows the results of the stability testing of Examples 76-79. Table 9 shows that working Examples 76-79 are stable because after 12 days at a temperature above room temperature, working Examples 76-79 show minimal oil separation (e.g., about 25% or less). In other words, working Examples 76-79 demonstrate that at least some MAAC disclosed herein are stable (e.g., show minimal oil separation) after at least 12 days at a temperature of about 54°C. Working Examples 76-79 also demonstrate that the stability of the MAAC disclosed herein depends at least in part on the surfactant used therein.

[0177] Note that it is expected that at room temperature (e.g., about 25° C.), the oil separation of Working Examples 76-79 will occur significantly slower than at 54° C. Thus, it is expected that Working Examples 76-79 (and at least some other MAACs disclosed herein) are stable and can exhibit minimal oil separation after storage at least one month, at least two months, at least six months, or one year at room temperature.

[0178] Table 9

[0179] sample Surfactant Grade 2 % Oil separation Working Example 76 Sodium Laureth Sulfate 25 Working Example 77 Polyglycerol esters 0 Working Example 78 Polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate 0 Working Example 79 Tallowamine ethoxylate 10

[0180] Although certain embodiments and details are included herein and in the accompanying invention disclosure for the purpose of illustrating the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made to the methods and apparatus disclosed herein without changing the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. As used herein, including in the claims, the words "including" and "having" shall have the same meaning as the word "comprising".

Claims

1. A multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition comprising: one or more liquid components comprising methylated seed oil, the methylated seed oil comprising 20 wt % of the composition; 66.7 wt % of ammonium sulfate particles dispersed in one or more liquid components, based on the weight of the composition; and One or more surfactants, at least one of the one or more surfactants is sodium lauryl ether sulfate, and the one or more surfactants do not contain a nonionic surfactant; the one or more surfactants account for 13.3 wt% of the weight of the composition; The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition is at least two of a water quality regulator, a surfactant, a high surfactant oil concentrate, a crop oil concentrate, an adjuvant for reducing drift and deposition, a buffer, an acidulant, a nitrogen source, a compatibilizer, an adjuvant plus foliar fertilizer, micronutrients, macronutrients, a defoamer, an antifoaming agent, a marker, a tank cleaner or a practical adjuvant.

2. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition according to claim 1, characterized in that At least one of the one or more surfactants comprises 3.33 wt% of surfactant 1 and 10 wt% of surfactant 2, wherein surfactant 1 exhibits a hydrophilic-lipophilic balance of 10-15, and surfactant 2 is sodium lauryl ether sulfate.

3. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition according to claim 1, characterized in that: The one or more surfactants include one or more ionic surfactants.

4. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition according to claim 1, characterized in that: The one or more surfactants include one or more amphoteric surfactants.

5. A multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition comprising: one or more liquid components, the one or more liquid components comprising 20 wt% methylated seed oil based on the weight of the composition; and 66.7 wt% of the composition of ammonium sulfate particles dispersed in one or more liquid components, in, The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition further comprises one or more surfactants, at least one of the one or more surfactants is sodium lauryl ether sulfate, and the one or more surfactants do not contain non-ionic surfactants; the one or more surfactants account for 13.3 wt% of the weight of the composition; And wherein the multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition exhibits one or more desired functions; The average particle size of the ammonium sulfate particles is less than 500 μm.

6. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition according to claim 5, characterized in that: At least one of the one or more surfactants comprises 3.33 wt% of surfactant 1 and 10 wt% of surfactant 2, wherein surfactant 1 exhibits a hydrophilic-lipophilic balance of 10-15, and surfactant 2 is sodium lauryl ether sulfate.

7. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition according to claim 5, characterized in that: The one or more liquid components include at least one of petroleum oil, vegetable oil, mineral oil, naphthenic oil, aromatic oil or petroleum distillate.

8. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition according to claim 5, characterized in that: The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition further comprises one or more solid agricultural particles comprising at least one of sodium citrate, dipotassium hydrogen phosphate, monoethanolamine sulfate, triethanolamine sulfate, itaconic acid, or one or more polyphosphates.

9. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition according to claim 5, characterized in that: The one or more surfactants include at least one of one or more ionic surfactants or one or more amphoteric surfactants.

10. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition according to claim 5, characterized in that: Also included is at least one rheology modifier.

11. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition according to claim 5, characterized in that: The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition further comprises one or more defoamers, one or more structuring agents, one or more soluble pesticides soluble in one or more liquid components, or one or more soluble solid agricultural particles soluble in one or more liquid components.

12. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition according to claim 5, characterized in that: The one or more liquid components are substantially anhydrous.

13. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition according to claim 5, characterized in that: The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition is at least one of a water quality conditioner or an adjuvant that reduces drift and sedimentation.

14. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition according to claim 5, characterized in that: The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition is at least one of a surfactant, a high surfactant oil concentrate or a crop oil concentrate.

15. The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition according to claim 7, characterized in that: The one or more liquid components include at least one of a seed oil or a paraffin oil.

16. An agricultural spray comprising: water; at least one pesticide or fertilizer; and The multifunctional agricultural adjuvant composition according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

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