Agrochemical formulation

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to compositions comprising oxathiapiprolin, metalaxyl-M, at least one component selected from the group consisting of surfactants, emulsifiers, and dispersants; and a solvent system comprising a water-soluble solvent, a first portion of the water-soluble solvent, and a second portion of the water-soluble solvent.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to agrochemical compositions, preferably dispersible concentrates (DCs), and dilutions or dispersions of such compositions, more particularly in a farmer's spray tank; and to the use of such compositions in agriculture or horticulture for controlling or preventing infection of plants by harmful organisms such as phytopathogenic microorganisms, preferably fungi. Background Art

[0002] By 2050, the global population is expected to reach 9.7 billion. Such growth will require a 60% increase in food production compared to 2005-2007 levels. To this end, agrochemical compositions are used to improve the growth, health and storage of crops, thereby increasing yields.

[0003] In order to maximize efficiency, it is often preferred to combine multiple agricultural chemicals into a single composition. In fact, in addition to resistance management in target pests, a single composition can also provide efficiencies in storage, transportation or application. However, combining multiple agricultural chemicals into a single composition often leads to complex interactions between each agricultural chemical, which affects the stability and application of the single composition.

[0004] Furthermore, a particular challenge of DC-based formulations is effective dispersion after dilution. When a DC is diluted for application, if the particle size of the precipitated agrochemical is too large, the equipment used to apply the DC may become clogged. Not only does the clogging risk damaging and destroying the application equipment, but it can also slow down the application process, which can put crops at risk.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for new agrochemical compositions. Summary of the invention

[0006] The present disclosure relates to compositions having fluthiazolin, metalaxyl-M, at least one component selected from a surfactant, an emulsifier, and a dispersant; and a solvent system comprising a water-soluble solvent, a first portion of the water-soluble solvent, and a second portion of the water-soluble solvent.

[0007] Alternatively, the disclosure relates to compositions having a first agrochemical, a second agrochemical, at least one component selected from a surfactant, an emulsifier, and a dispersant, and a solvent system that dissolves the first agrochemical and the second agrochemical, having a water-soluble solvent and a partially water-soluble solvent, wherein the composition is a dispersible concentrate, and wherein the first agrochemical is different from the second agrochemical.

[0008] Other embodiments are directed to a composition having a first agrochemical, at least one component selected from the group consisting of a surfactant, an emulsifier, and a dispersant, and a solvent system that dissolves the first agrochemical, the solvent system comprising: a water-soluble solvent, a first portion of the water-soluble solvent, and a second portion of the water-soluble solvent, wherein the composition is a dispersible concentrate, and wherein the first agrochemical is different from the second agrochemical.

[0009] The disclosure further relates to methods of using such compositions. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1A Composition A (comparative composition) prepared in 500 ppm water at different can inversions is shown.

[0011] Figure 1B Shown is composition A prepared in 500 ppm water at different jar inversions after standing overnight.

[0012] Figure 2 Residue buildup on the mesh in-line filter after spraying with Composition A is shown.

[0013] Figure 3 The cumulative build-up of gritty material in the spray tank after subsequent loading with Composition A is shown.

[0014] Figure 4A A micrograph (40x) of composition A at 4.5% is shown.

[0015] Figure 4B A micrograph (40x) of 4.5% composition A after 18 inversions is shown.

[0016] Figure 5 Shown are images of 50 and 100 mesh in-line filters and nozzle screens after spraying using Composition 1 (according to the invention).

[0017] Figure 6 An image of the spray can after 4 loads of composition 1 have been used is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Before describing certain embodiments in more detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described, as these embodiments may of course vary. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing certain embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting, as the scope of the present disclosure will be limited only by the appended claims.

[0019] Several definitions are described herein. Such definitions are meant to encompass grammatical equivalents.

[0020] Unless stated otherwise, the use of “or” means “and / or.” In addition, use of the terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and other forms, such as “includes,” and “included,” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.

[0021] As used herein, the term "about" when referring to a measurable value (such as an amount, a time interval, etc.) is meant to encompass variations. However, such variations depend on the specific components involved and the context as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0022] As used herein, the term "dispersible concentrate" (abbreviation DC) refers to a liquid homogeneous formulation to be applied as a solid dispersion after dilution with water.

[0023] As used herein, the term "dispersion" refers to a system containing more than one phase or more than one component (chemical entity) whereby one phase or component is dispersed in a second phase or component. A dispersion is a system in which distributed particles of one material are dispersed in a continuous phase of another material. The two phases may be in the same or different states of matter.

[0024] As used herein, the term "agrochemical" refers to chemicals such as those described herein, like fluthiazolin and metalaxyl-M, both of which are fungicides. In this article, the term "agrochemical" can be used interchangeably with "agrochemical active ingredient" or "agrochemical ingredient".

[0025] As used herein, the term "partially water-soluble" refers to a solvent that dissolves in water to make a solution (usually expressed as grams of solvent per liter of water), wherein the solvent has a solubility in water at a temperature of 20°C to 25°C of 0.01% w / w to 10% w / w, preferably 0.01% w / w to 5% w / w, more preferably 0.01% w / w to 1% w / w. Examples of partially water-soluble solvents are aromatic ketones, like benzophenone (diphenyl ketone, water solubility at 25°C 0.23 g / L (0.03% w / w)), acetophenone (1-phenylethanone, water solubility at 25°C 6.9 g / L (0.69% w / w) water), or propiophenone (1-phenylpropan-1-one, water solubility at 20°C 2 g / L (0.2% w / w)); or ester-derivatives of lactic acid (also called partially water-soluble solvents lactic acid derivatives, or "partially water-soluble solvents are lactic acid derivatives"), for example 2-ethylhexyl-lactate, or 2-ethylhexyl-S-lactate ((2S)-2-ethylhexyl 2-hydroxypropionate, CAS-RN 186817-80-1, water solubility at 20°C 0.43 g / L, 0.04% w / w).

[0026] As used herein, the term "water-soluble" refers to a solvent that dissolves in water at any ratio at a temperature of 20°C to 25°C to make a solution without phase separation.

[0027] As used herein, the term "hydroxyl" or "hydroxy" means an -OH group.

[0028] As used herein, the term “C 1-n "Alkyl" refers to a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain radical consisting solely of carbon and hydrogen atoms, containing no unsaturation, having from one to n carbon atoms, and attached to the rest of the molecule by a single bond. 1-3 Alkyl should be interpreted accordingly. 1-n Examples of alkyl groups include, but are not limited to, methyl, ethyl, isopropyl.

[0029] As used herein, the term “C 2-n "Alkenyl" refers to a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain radical consisting solely of carbon and hydrogen atoms, containing at least one double bond which may have an (E) or (Z) configuration, having two or n carbon atoms, which is attached to the rest of the molecule by a single bond. 2-n Examples of alkenyl groups include, but are not limited to, vinyl (ethenyl), prop-1-enyl, allyl (prop-2-enyl).

[0030] As used herein, the term “C 2-n"Alkynyl" refers to a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain radical consisting solely of carbon and hydrogen atoms, containing at least one triple bond, having two or n carbon atoms, and attached to the rest of the molecule by a single bond. 2-n Examples of alkynyl groups include, but are not limited to, prop-1-ynyl and propargyl (prop-2-ynyl).

[0031] As used herein, the term “C 3-6 "Cycloalkyl" refers to a saturated, stable monocyclic group containing 3 or 6 carbon atoms. 3-6 Examples of cycloalkyl groups include, but are not limited to, cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, or cyclopentyl.

[0032] As used herein, the term “C 1-n "Alkoxy" refers to a group having the formula R a O-group, where R a is C as defined above 1-3 Alkyl. C 1-3 Examples of alkoxy include, but are not limited to, methoxy, ethoxy, isopropoxy.

[0033] As used herein, the term "optionally substituted" means that the referenced group is unsubstituted or substituted with a specified substituent, for example, "C 3 -C 4 Cycloalkyl is optionally substituted by 1 or 2 halogen atoms" means C 3 -C 4 Cycloalkyl, C substituted by 1 halogen atom 3 -C 4 Cycloalkyl and C substituted by 2 halogen atoms 3 -C 4 Cycloalkyl. In addition, as used herein, the term "optionally substituted" means that the group referred to is unsubstituted or substituted. The term "optionally substituted" can be used interchangeably with "unsubstituted or substituted".

[0034] As used herein, the term "optionally in the presence of" means that a process is performed in the presence or absence of the mentioned reagent, for example "the process is optionally performed in the presence of a base" means that the process can be performed with or without a base.

[0035] As used herein, the term "control" refers to reducing the number of pests, eliminating pests, and / or preventing further pest damage, such that damage to plants or to plant-derived products is reduced.

[0036] As used herein, the term "pest" refers to insects and molluscs present in agriculture, horticulture, forestry, storage of products of plant origin (such as fruits, grains and wood); and those pests associated with damage to man-made structures. The term pest covers all stages of the pest life cycle.

[0037] As used herein, the term "effective amount" refers to an amount of a compound or a salt thereof that provides the desired effect upon single or multiple administrations.

[0038] The effective amount is readily determined by one skilled in the art using known techniques and by observing the results obtained under similar circumstances. In determining the effective amount, many factors are considered, including, but not limited to, the type of plant or derived product to be applied; the pest to be controlled and its life cycle; the specific compound applied; the type of application; and other relevant circumstances.

[0039] As used herein, the term "room temperature" or "RT" or "rt" refers to a temperature of about 15° C. to about 35° C. For example, rt may refer to a temperature of about 20° C. to about 30° C.

[0040] Where a range of values ​​is provided, it is understood that each intervening value between the upper and lower limits of that range (to the tenth of the lower limit unless the context clearly dictates otherwise) and any other stated or intervening value in the stated range is encompassed within the disclosure. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included in the smaller ranges, and are also encompassed within the disclosure, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding one or both of those included limits are also included in the disclosure.

[0041] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of this disclosure, representative illustrative methods and materials are now described.

[0042] Each individual embodiment described and illustrated herein has discrete components and features that can be readily separated or combined with the features of any of the other several embodiments without departing from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure. Any recited method can be performed in the order of recited events or in any other order that is logically possible.

[0043] Unless otherwise stated, percentages of components in compositions refer to w / w (based on the total weight of the composition).

[0044] An example of a challenging single agrochemical composition with multiple agrochemicals is illustrated with Composition A (the comparative composition described in Table 1 below). Composition A is a dispersible concentrate (DC) of fluthiazolin and metalaxyl-M. While Composition A was generally effective, performance issues were noted when applied in-furrow at the label use rate suitable for potatoes in aggressive (cold, hard, high alkalinity / bicarbonate, or a combination thereof) water. During application, fluthiazolin crystals formed in the spray solution but subsequently flocculated to produce a hard packed, gritty residue that accumulated on in-line filters, nozzles, and tanks.

[0045] The compositions disclosed herein may also impart improved spray application performance in cold / hard / high alkalinity (or combinations thereof) water at higher use rates and lower spray volumes required for crops such as potatoes, without sacrificing performance at lower use rates and / or higher spray volumes required for other crops such as tobacco.

[0046] Composition

[0047] The composition described herein is preferably a dispersible concentrate (DC) formulation. DC is a liquid formulation applied as a solid dispersion after dilution in water. Typically, DC contains a water-miscible organic solvent or a mixture of multiple solvents for dissolving water-insoluble or partially soluble agricultural chemicals. When DC is diluted in water, the agricultural chemicals precipitate out and disperse as solid particles. The solvent is dissolved in water. DC may contain a surfactant / emulsifier (etc.) that helps to apply the precipitated solid particles. In some embodiments, DC may also contain water, as long as the amount does not affect the stability of the entire composition; however, DC is preferably formulated without water. Other ingredients such as compatibilizers, adhesives, film formers, slip agents, colorants, etc. may also be included.

[0048] Agrochemicals

[0049] The term "agrochemical" or equivalent terms includes compounds or ingredients that have been registered as having biological activity against agricultural pests. Typically, agrochemical active ingredients include compounds listed in: The Pesticide Manual, 12th edition, 2001, British Crop Protection Council. Agrochemicals include, but are not limited to, herbicides, fungicides, other insecticides, bactericides, insect growth regulators, plant growth regulators, nematicides, molluscicides or mixtures of several of these agents.

[0050] The term "agrochemically effective" or equivalent terms generally refers to the approved application rate of an agrochemical. The agrochemically effective amount is generally determined by the specific crop and agrochemical being used.

[0051] The total amount of each agrochemical, or the total amount of agrochemicals in the composition, based on the total weight of the composition, is typically in the range of 1% w / w to 40% w / w, preferably 1% w / w to 30% w / w, and most preferably 5% w / w to 20% w / w.

[0052] Typically, the compositions described herein comprise two different agrochemicals. In the context of DC, both agrochemicals can be dissolved in the composition. However, additional agrochemicals in different states can be included in the composition.

[0053] Preferred agrochemical ingredients (or agrochemicals) include fluazifop-ethyl and metalaxyl-M, both of which are fungicides.

[0054] Fluthiapiprolin is a fungicide with the following CAS number: 1003318-67-9 and has the following chemical formula:

[0055]

[0056] The mechanism of action of fluthiazolin involves binding to oxysterol-binding proteins in Oomycetes.

[0057] In one embodiment of the present invention, the composition comprises 1% w / w to 20% w / w, preferably 1% w / w to 10% w / w, and more preferably 1% w / w to 5% w / w of fluthiapiprolin based on the total weight of the composition.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the composition comprises 1% w / w to 5% w / w of fluthiazolin based on the total weight of the composition.

[0059] Metalaxyl-M is a fungicide with the following CAS number: 70630-17-0, also known by the name Metalaxyl-M, and has the following chemical formula:

[0060]

[0061] In one embodiment of the present invention, the composition comprises 1% w / w to 30% w / w, preferably 5% w / w to 30% w / w, more preferably 5% w / w to 25% w / w, and most preferably 5% w / w to 15% w / w of Metalaxyl-M based on the total weight of the composition.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the composition comprises 5% w / w to 15% w / w of Metalaxyl-M based on the total weight of the composition.

[0063] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the composition comprises 1% w / w to 5% w / w of fluthiazolin and 5% w / w to 15% w / w of metalaxyl-M, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0064] Solvent system

[0065] Typically, the solvent system used in the composition is configured to dissolve at least one agricultural chemical in the composition. The solvent system is typically composed of at least one water-soluble solvent and at least one partially water-soluble solvent. In a preferred embodiment, the solvent system contains a water-soluble solvent and two partially water-soluble solvents. The total amount of the solvent present in the composition is 40% w / w to 80% w / w, preferably 50% w / w to 70% w / w and most preferably 55% w / w to 65% w / w.

[0066] As used herein, a water-soluble solvent has a solubility of at least 10% w / w, preferably 50% w / w, and most preferably 100% w / w (completely miscible). The water-soluble solvent is present in the composition at 10% w / w to 40% w / w, preferably 10% w / w to 30% w / w, and most preferably 15% w / w to 25% w / w.

[0067] As used herein, partially water-soluble solvents have a solubility of 0.01% w / w to 10% w / w, preferably 0.01% w / w to 5% w / w and most preferably 0.1% w / w to 1% w / w. The total amount of partially water-soluble solvents can be 10% w / w to 50% w / w, preferably 10% w / w to 40% w / w and most preferably 15% w / w to 35% w / w. In the embodiment wherein there is more than one partially water-soluble solvent, each partially water-soluble solvent can exist with 5% w / w to 25% w / w, preferably 5% w / w to 20% w / w and most preferably 10% w / w to 20% w / w. Some embodiments can be defined by partially water-soluble solvents of different ratios such as: 1: 9 to 9: 1, preferably 1: 4 to 4: 1 and most preferably 1: 3 to 3: 1. Similarly, embodiments can be described by ratios of water-soluble solvent to partially water-soluble solvent, which ratios can be 1:9 to 9:1, preferably 1:5 to 5:1, and most preferably 1:3 to 3:1.

[0068] In one embodiment of the present invention, the partially water-soluble solvent has a solubility in water at 20°C to 25°C of 0.01% w / w to 10% w / w, preferably 0.01% w / w to 5% w / w, and more preferably 0.01% w / w to 1% w / w.

[0069] Examples of water-soluble solvents include, but are not limited to: dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether (CAS No.: 34590-4-8) (Dowanol® DPM); ethyl lactate, ethyl 2-hydroxypropionate (CAS No.: 687-47-8, 97-64-3, 7699-00-5) (Purasolv® EL); n-propyl-L-lactate (CAS No.: 53651-69-7) (Purasolv® NPL); methyl L-lactate (CAS No.: 27871-49-4) (Purasolv® ML); N-methylpyrrolidone, 1-methylpyrrolidone-2-one (CAS No. 872-50-4); propylene carbonate, 4-methyl-1,3-dioxolane-2-one (CAS No. 108-32-7); N,N-dimethyllactamide (2-hydroxy-N,N-dimethylpropionamide or dimethyllactamide, CAS-RN: 35123-06-9, from BASF as Agnique ® AMD3 L is commercially available); and tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, (oxolan-2-yl)methanol (CAS No.: 97-99-4).

[0070] In one embodiment, the water-soluble solvent is an ester-amide derivative of lactic acid (also referred to as a water-soluble solvent lactic acid derivative), preferably N,N-dimethyl lactamide (2-hydroxy-N,N-dimethyl propionamide, or dimethyl lactamide, CAS-RN: 35123-06-9, available from BASF as Agnique ® AMD 3 L is commercially available). N,N-dimethyl lactamide can be considered a safe, protic, water-miscible solvent.

[0071] The ester-amide derivatives of lactic acid (also called water-soluble solvent lactic acid derivatives) are lactamide compounds having the formula (I)

[0072] (I)

[0073] in

[0074] R 1 and R 2 are each independently selected from hydrogen, C 1 - 6 Alkyl, C 2 - 6 Alkenyl, or C 3 -6 cycloalkyl, each of which is unsubstituted or substituted with up to three independently selected from phenyl, hydroxy, C 1 - 5 Alkoxy, morpholinyl, or NR 3 R 4 Substituents, where R 3 and R 4 Each independently selected from C 1 - 3 or phenyl, wherein the phenyl is unsubstituted or substituted with up to three independently selected C 1 - 3 The alkyl group is substituted by a substituent; or

[0075] R 1 and R 2 Together with the nitrogen atom to which they are attached, they form a morpholinyl, pyrrolidinyl, piperidinyl, or azepanyl ring, each of which is unsubstituted or substituted with up to three independently selected C 1 - 3 The alkyl group is substituted with a substituent.

[0076] In one embodiment, in the lactamide compound having formula (I),

[0077] R 1 and R 2 Each independently selected from C 1 - 3 alkyl.

[0078] Preferably, in the lactamide compound having formula (I), R 1 and R 2 Each is independently selected from methyl, ethyl, or propyl. More preferably, in the lactamide compound having formula (I), R 1 and R 2 It's methyl.

[0079] Examples of partially water-soluble solvents include, but are not limited to: benzyl acetate (CAS-RN: 140-11-4, water solubility at 25°C 3 g / L, 0.3% w / w); butyl acetate and isomers (0.6% w / w-0.8% w / w, n-butyl acetate water solubility at 20°C 6.8 g / L, 0.7% w / w); n-butyl L-lactate (CAS-RN: 34451-19-9, commercially available as Purasolv® BL, water solubility at 25°C 42 g / L, 4.2% w / w); a mixture of N,N-dimethyloctanamide and N,N-dimethyldecanamide (CAS-RN: 1118-92-9, commercially available as HALLCOMID® M-8-10 is commercially available, water solubility 0.12%); cyclohexanone (CAS-RN: 108-94-1, water solubility 103 g / L at 25°C, 10.3% w / w); benzophenone (CAS-RN: 119-61-9, diphenyl ketone, water solubility 0.23 g / L (0.03% w / w) at 25°C); acetophenone (CAS-RN: 98-86-2, 1-phenylethanone, water solubility 6.9 g / L (0.69% w / w) water at 25°C); propiophenone (CAS-RN: 93-55-0, 1-phenylpropan-1-one, water solubility 2 g / L (0.2% w / w) at 20°C w / w)); and isophorone (3,5,5-trimethylcyclohex-2-en-1-one, CAS number: 78-59-1, water solubility at 25°C 1.2 g / L, 1.2% w / w).

[0080] In one embodiment of the present invention, the partially water-soluble solvent is an aromatic ketone selected from benzophenone (diphenyl ketone, water solubility at 25°C 0.23 g / L (0.03% w / w)), acetophenone (1-phenylethanone, water solubility at 25°C 6.9 g / L (0.69% w / w) water), or propiophenone (1-phenylpropan-1-one, water solubility at 20°C 2 g / L (0.2% w / w)). Preferably, the partially water-soluble solvent is acetophenone.

[0081] In one embodiment of the present invention, the partially water-soluble solvent is an ester of lactic acid having the formula (II)

[0082] (II)

[0083] Where R 1 Selected from C 4 -C 10 Alkyl, wherein the C 4 -C 10 The alkyl group is unsubstituted or substituted by one or two groups selected from C1 -C 3 The alkyl group is substituted with a substituent.

[0084] Preferably, in the compound having formula (II), R 1 Selected from C 6 -C 8 Alkyl, wherein the C 6 -C 8 The alkyl group is unsubstituted or substituted with one or two substituents selected from methyl, ethyl or isopropyl.

[0085] More preferably, in the compound having formula (II), R 1 Selected from C 6 Alkyl, wherein the C 6 The alkyl group is unsubstituted or substituted with one or two substituents selected from methyl or ethyl.

[0086] In another embodiment of the present invention, the partially water-soluble solvent is an ester of lactic acid (also referred to as a partially water-soluble solvent lactic acid derivative), preferably a branched C ester of lactic acid. 6 - 10 Alkyl esters, more preferably 2-ethylhexyl-lactate, and most preferably 2-ethylhexyl-S-lactate ((2S)-2-ethylhexyl 2-hydroxypropionate, CAS-RN 186817-80-1).

[0087] In another embodiment, the partially water-soluble solvent is an ester derivative of lactic acid (also referred to as a partially water-soluble solvent lactic acid derivative or lactate-derivative), preferably 2-ethylhexyl-lactate, most preferably 2-ethylhexyl-(S)-lactate.

[0088] Preferred embodiments relate to compositions with two partially water-soluble solvents. These can be a combination of an aromatic ketone (such as acetophenone) and a lactate derivative (such as 2-ethylhexyl-S-lactate).

[0089] In another embodiment, the composition of the present invention comprises a first portion of a water-soluble solvent and a second portion of a water-soluble solvent, wherein the first portion of the water-soluble solvent is different from the second portion of the water-soluble solvent. In one embodiment, the first portion of the water-soluble solvent is selected from aromatic ketones, preferably benzophenone, propiophenone or acetophenone, more preferably acetophenone. In one embodiment, the second portion of the water-soluble solvent is selected from esters of lactic acid (also referred to as partially water-soluble lactic acid derivatives or ester-derivatives of lactic acid), preferably 2-ethylhexyl-lactate, and more preferably 2-ethylhexyl-(S)-lactate ((2S)-2-ethylhexyl 2-hydroxypropionate, CAS-RN 186817-80-1).

[0090] In one embodiment of the present invention, the composition comprises:

[0091] First Agrochemicals;

[0092] Second agricultural chemicals;

[0093] at least one component selected from the group consisting of surfactants, emulsifiers, and dispersants; and

[0094] A solvent system, the solvent system dissolving the first agricultural chemical and the second agricultural chemical, the solvent system comprising:

[0095] Water-soluble solvents, and

[0096] Some water-soluble solvents;

[0097] wherein the composition is a dispersible concentrate; and

[0098] wherein the partially water-soluble solvent has a solubility in water of 0.01% w / w to 10% w / w at 20°C to 25°C.

[0099] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the composition comprises:

[0100] First Agrochemicals;

[0101] Second agricultural chemicals;

[0102] at least one component selected from the group consisting of surfactants, emulsifiers, and dispersants; and

[0103] A solvent system, the solvent system dissolving the first agricultural chemical and the second agricultural chemical, the solvent system comprising:

[0104] Water-soluble solvents, and

[0105] Some water-soluble solvents;

[0106] wherein the composition is a dispersible concentrate; and

[0107] wherein the partially water-soluble solvent has a solubility in water of 0.01% w / w to 5% w / w at 20°C to 25°C.

[0108] In a more preferred embodiment of the present invention, the composition comprises:

[0109] First Agrochemicals;

[0110] Second agricultural chemicals;

[0111] at least one component selected from the group consisting of surfactants, emulsifiers, and dispersants; and

[0112] A solvent system, the solvent system dissolving the first agricultural chemical and the second agricultural chemical, the solvent system comprising:

[0113] Water-soluble solvents, and

[0114] Some water-soluble solvents;

[0115] wherein the composition is a dispersible concentrate; and

[0116] wherein the partially water-soluble solvent has a solubility in water of 0.01% w / w to 1% w / w at 20°C to 25°C.

[0117] In one embodiment of the present invention, the composition comprises:

[0118] a first agricultural chemical, wherein the first agricultural chemical is fluazifop-ethyl;

[0119] a second agricultural chemical, wherein the second agricultural chemical is Metalaxyl-M;

[0120] at least one component selected from the group consisting of surfactants, emulsifiers, and dispersants; and

[0121] A solvent system, the solvent system dissolving the first agricultural chemical and the second agricultural chemical, the solvent system comprising:

[0122] Water-soluble solvents, and

[0123] Some water-soluble solvents;

[0124] wherein the composition is a dispersible concentrate; and

[0125] wherein the partially water-soluble solvent has a solubility in water of 0.01% w / w to 10% w / w at 20°C to 25°C.

[0126] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the composition comprises:

[0127] a first agricultural chemical, wherein the first agricultural chemical is fluazifop-ethyl;

[0128] a second agricultural chemical, wherein the second agricultural chemical is Metalaxyl-M;

[0129] at least one component selected from the group consisting of surfactants, emulsifiers, and dispersants; and

[0130] A solvent system, the solvent system dissolving the first agricultural chemical and the second agricultural chemical, the solvent system comprising:

[0131] Water-soluble solvents, and

[0132] Some water-soluble solvents;

[0133] wherein the composition is a dispersible concentrate; and

[0134] wherein the partially water-soluble solvent has a solubility in water of 0.01% w / w to 5% w / w at 20°C to 25°C.

[0135] In a more preferred embodiment of the present invention, the composition comprises:

[0136] a first agricultural chemical, wherein the first agricultural chemical is fluazifop-ethyl;

[0137] a second agricultural chemical, wherein the second agricultural chemical is Metalaxyl-M;

[0138] at least one component selected from the group consisting of surfactants, emulsifiers, and dispersants; and

[0139] A solvent system, the solvent system dissolving the first agricultural chemical and the second agricultural chemical, the solvent system comprising:

[0140] Water-soluble solvents, and

[0141] Some water-soluble solvents;

[0142] wherein the composition is a dispersible concentrate; and

[0143] wherein the partially water-soluble solvent has a solubility in water of 0.01% w / w to 1% w / w at 20°C to 25°C.

[0144] Surfactants

[0145] Typically, embodiments of the present disclosure include at least one surfactant. The composition may include 5% to 40% surfactant by weight relative to the total weight of the composition, preferably 10% to 30% surfactant by weight, and more preferably about 15% to about 30% or about 20% to about 30% surfactant by weight. In embodiments using more than one surfactant (e.g., first and second surfactants; or first, second and third surfactants; etc.), each surfactant may be present in, for example, different amounts as follows: 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, etc., and the ranges generated between any two numbers listed above. For example, 1% to 15%, or 1% to 10%, 5% to 15%, 10% to 20%, 4% to 6%, 4% to 7%, etc., by weight. Surfactants may be selected to promote compatibility of the partially water-soluble solvent with the remainder of the composition.Emulsifiers and dispersants may be a subset of surfactants.

[0146] Emulsifier

[0147] The composition of the present disclosure may further comprise one or more emulsifiers. More particularly, the composition may comprise 0.01% to 40% by weight of an emulsifier, preferably 0.5% to 30% by weight of an emulsifier, and more preferably 0.5% to 20% by weight of an emulsifier based on the total weight of the composition.

[0148] The emulsifier may be a surfactant well known in the art, such as ionic (anionic, cationic, or amphoteric) and nonionic surfactants.

[0149] Suitable ionic surfactants are alkali, alkaline earth metal and ammonium salts of aromatic sulfonic acids, for example ligninsulfonic acid, phenolsulfonic acid, naphthalenesulfonic acid, dibutylnaphthalenesulfonic acid or fatty acids, alkyl and alkylarylsulfonates, alkyl sulfates, lauryl ether sulfates and fatty alcohol sulfates, and also the salts of sulfated cetyl, heptadecanol and stearyl alcohols and salts of fatty alcohol glycol ethers, condensates of sulfonated naphthalene and its derivatives with formaldehyde, condensates of naphthalene or naphthalenesulfonic acid with phenol and formaldehyde, polycarboxylates or phosphoric esters of alkoxylated alcohols.

[0150] Suitable nonionic surfactants are polyoxyethylene octylphenol ethers, alkoxylated alcohols (such as ethoxylated alkylphenols), alkylphenyl polyglycol ethers, tributylphenyl polyglycol ethers, alkylaryl polyether alcohols, isotridecanol, fatty alcohol / ethylene oxide condensates, ethoxylated castor oil, tristyrylphenol ethoxylates, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers or polyoxypropylene alkyl ethers, lauryl alcohol polyglycol ether acetates, sorbitan esters, fatty acid ethoxylates, alkyl polyglucosides, lignin-sulfite waste liquors and also proteins, denatured proteins, polysaccharides (for example methylcellulose), hydrophobically modified starches, polyvinyl alcohols (for example Mowiol®), polyalkoxylates, polyvinylamines, polyethyleneimines, polyvinylpyrrolidones and copolymers or block polymers thereof.

[0151] In a preferred embodiment, the emulsifier may be selected from nonionic surfactants. For example, the composition may contain sorbitol ester and polyoxyalkylene copolymer in an amount of 1% to 20% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition, respectively. A preferred embodiment is a composition according to the invention, comprising 1% to 10% by weight of sorbitol ester and 1% to 10% by weight of polyoxyalkylene copolymer relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0152] The sorbitan ester may more particularly be polyoxyethylene sorbitan trioleate. For example, the sorbitan ester may be Tween 85 supplied by CRODA.

[0153] The polyoxyalkylene copolymers may be obtained from at least two different alkylene oxides, such as from ethylene oxide monomers and propylene oxide monomers.

[0154] The polyoxyalkylene copolymer may preferably be a polyoxyalkylene block copolymer of the AB, ABA, BAB, or ABABA type.

[0155] More specifically, the polyoxyalkylene copolymers can be prepared by ring-opening polymerization of corresponding cyclic ethylene oxide monomers and propylene oxide monomers.

[0156] Typically, the ring-opening polymerization is initiated by the addition of water and alkali metal hydroxides such as sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide.The block structure of the copolymer is formed by first polymerizing a polymer block using one monomer and then adding a second monomer to form additional polymer blocks.

[0157] In a preferred embodiment, the polyoxyalkylene copolymer can be an ethylene oxide-propylene oxide-ethylene oxide block copolymer (EO-PO-EO block copolymer), or in other words a poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(propylene oxide)-poly(ethylene oxide) block copolymer or a poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(propylene glycol)-poly(ethylene glycol) block copolymer.

[0158] In another preferred embodiment, the polyoxyalkylene copolymer may be an ethylene oxide-propylene oxide block copolymer (EO-PO block copolymer), or in other words a poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(propylene oxide) block copolymer or a poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(propylene glycol) block copolymer.

[0159] The polyoxyalkylene copolymer of the present invention may have an average molecular weight of 1,000 to 15,000 g / mol, and preferably 3,000 to 7,000 g / mol. The molecular weight, or in other words the molar mass, of a polymer can be easily determined by methods well known in the art such as gel permeation chromatography (GPC).

[0160] Examples include GENAPOL® PF series (CLARIANT), PLURONIC® series (BASF), SYNPERONIC® PE series (Croda), or TOXIMUL® series (STEPAN). As a preferred example, the polyoxyalkylene copolymer may be a butyl polyoxyalkylene block copolymer, such as Toximul 8320 supplied by STEPAN.

[0161] Other suitable emulsifiers are nonionic amphoteric emulsifiers, for example emulsifiers containing polyethylene oxide moieties. Such emulsifiers are generally known to the skilled person. Nonionic amphoteric emulsifiers containing polyethylene oxide moieties can be selected from fatty alcohol alkoxylates, preferably ethoxylated C 12 -C 18 alcohols, such as isotridecyl alcohol ethoxylated with two ethylene oxide moieties (e.g. Lutensol TO series from BASF); polyalkoxylates, preferably copolymers of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide (e.g. Step Flow LF or Genapol PF10); copolymers and block copolymers of glycerol with hydroxylated saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, such as polyglyceryl-2 dipolyhydroxystearate (e.g. Dehymuls PGPH); ethoxylated glycerol esters of hydroxy fatty acids and their derivatives, such as ethoxylated castor oil (e.g. Toximul® 8241, Toximul® 8240), ethoxylated and hydrogenated castor oil, or ethoxylated castor oil oleate (e.g. Toxium 8248, Toximul 8243, Alkamuls V02003 or Emulsogen EL0200); polyether siloxanes (e.g. Break Thru OE 440), nonionically modified polyesters (e.g. Tersperse 2520), or polyglycerol fatty acid partial esters (e.g. Tego XP11041).

[0162] Ethoxylated castor oil emulsifiers are produced by the reaction of castor oil with ethylene oxide. Ethoxylated castor oil emulsifiers have different chain lengths, depending on the amount of ethylene oxide used during the synthesis. The molar ratio can vary from 1 molecule of castor oil to 1-200 molecules of ethylene oxide, resulting in ethoxylated castor oil emulsifiers known as PEG-x (polyethylene glycol) castor oil emulsifiers, where x is the number of ethylene oxide moieties (Fruijtier-Polloth, C. Toxicology 2005, "Safety assessment on polyethylene glycols (PEGs) and theirderivatives as used in cosmetic products", 214, 1-38). In one embodiment, the emulsifier used in the composition according to the present invention can be selected from non-ionic surfactants, such as polyoxyalkylene copolymers; non-ionic amphoteric emulsifiers, containing polyethylene oxide parts, such as ethoxylated castor oil emulsifiers; sorbitol, such as Tween® 80; and alkyl aryl sulfonates, such as, for example, Nansa® EVM63 / B.

[0163] In another embodiment, the emulsifier used in the composition according to the present invention can be selected from non-ionic surfactants, such as polyoxyalkylene copolymers (such as, for example, the commercially available Toximul® 8320); non-ionic amphoteric emulsifiers, containing polyethylene oxide parts, such as ethoxylated castor oil emulsifiers (such as the commercially available Toximul® 8240); sorbitol, such as Tween® 80; and alkyl aryl sulfonates, such as, for example, the commercially available Nansa® EVM63 / B.

[0164] Dispersants

[0165] The composition of the present disclosure may further comprise one or more dispersants. More particularly, the composition may comprise 0.01% to 20% by weight of a dispersant, and preferably 0.5% to 10% by weight of a dispersant relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0166] In certain embodiments, no dispersant is required. In these embodiments, the composition will contain no dispersant.

[0167] In a preferred embodiment, the dispersant may be an acrylic graft copolymer.

[0168] The acrylic graft copolymers typically have a comb or star structure, and preferably a comb structure. Graft copolymers are branched copolymers in which the components forming the side chains are structurally different from the components forming the main chain. Comb polymers contain a main chain (backbone) containing branching points, from each of which emanates a linear side chain. Star polymers contain a multifunctional center from which at least three polymer chains radiate.

[0169] In a preferred embodiment, the acrylic graft copolymer may be an amphiphilic copolymer.

[0170] More particularly, the acrylic graft copolymer comprises at least one component A (hydrophilic part), which is soluble by the aqueous medium, and at least one other component B, which is hydrophobic.

[0171] Suitable acrylic graft copolymers may comprise polyethylene glycol, monomethyl ether of polyethylene glycol, poly(vinyl pyrrolidone), poly(acrylamide), or poly(vinyl alcohol) as hydrophilic side chains, while the hydrophobic backbone may comprise polymers and copolymers of styrene, methyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate, ethyl acrylate, 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, lauryl methacrylate, or vinyl acetate.

[0172] Such acrylic graft copolymers can be prepared, for example, by converting the monomethyl ether of polyethylene glycol into an acrylate or methacrylate, which is then subjected to free radical polymerization together with other unsaturated monomers such as styrene, ethyl acrylate, or methyl methacrylate. It is also possible to prepare such acrylic graft copolymers by reacting a hydrophobic polymer backbone (which consists of chemically reactive sites such as carboxyl, hydroxyl, or amine groups) with monomeric alkylene oxides such as ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to form hydrophilic side chains.

[0173] More preferably, the acrylic graft copolymer is a nonionic polymer and more particularly has a comb-like structure.

[0174] In the present disclosure, the acrylic graft copolymer may contain polyethylene glycol and / or monoether polyethylene glycol side chains.

[0175] The acrylic graft copolymer may also comprise a backbone derived from acrylate and / or methacrylate monomers.

[0176] Even more preferably, the acrylic graft copolymer may comprise a backbone obtained from acrylate and / or methacrylate monomers and side chains comprising polyethylene glycol and / or monoether polyethylene glycol, more particularly giving a polymer comb structure.

[0177] For example, the acrylic graft copolymer may be Atlox 4913™ supplied by Croda, or Tersperse 2500™ supplied by HUNTSMAN.

[0178] Additional components

[0179] The composition of the present invention may further comprise one or more formulation additives well known in the art. In particular, the formulation additive may be selected from defoamers, wetting agents, antifreeze agents, antimicrobial agents (or biocides), viscosity modifiers, pH modifiers, and any mixtures thereof, and preferably, the formulation additive may be selected from defoamers, wetting agents, and any mixtures thereof.

[0180] Each of the above-mentioned formulation additives can be added to the composition to obtain desired properties. For example, each of the formulation additives can be added to the composition in an amount of 0.0001% to 10% by weight, and preferably 0.001% to 5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

[0181] Other suitable formulation additives include, inter alia, antioxidants, colorants, fragrances, adjuvants, attractants, binders, solid supports (carriers), coating agents, deodorants, emetics, inorganic fillers, safeners, and any mixtures thereof known to those skilled in the art.

[0182] The composition of the present invention may contain one or more of the above-mentioned one or more components in appropriate amounts to obtain corresponding properties as appropriate.

[0183] How to use

[0184] In specific embodiments, the compositions of the present disclosure may involve:

[0185] a. a concentrate designed for addition to a farmer's water spray tank, or which can be applied directly without further dilution, or

[0186] b. Suspensions, which are produced in farmers' water spray tanks when the concentrate is mixed with water in the spray tank.

[0187] Another object of the present disclosure relates to a method of controlling or preventing infestation of plants by fungal organisms, comprising applying the composition according to the present disclosure by foliar application, soil application and / or tree injection.

[0188] In either the foliar method or in the soil method, the compositions of the disclosure may generally be applied by spraying the composition; for example, dispensing from a spray container.

[0189] Typically, high dilution administration involves dilution 200-20'000 times, preferably 200-15'000 times, and most preferably 300-5'000 times. Low dilution administration involves dilution 1-500 times, preferably 2-200 times, and most preferably 5-100 times.

[0190] Soil or foliar methods may involve applying an effective amount of the composition in an amount of 0.01 to 5 liters per hectare (L / ha), and preferably 0.02 to 3.0 L / ha.

[0191] Another object of the present disclosure relates to the use of the composition for controlling or preventing infestation of plants by fungal organisms, especially for controlling or preventing Oomycete pathogens (eg Phytophthora species, Downy Mildew).

[0192] The plant can be selected from grapes, vegetables, specialty crops, and permanent crops, and can be, for example, cucurbitaceae (melon, watermelon, squash, pumpkin, zucchini, cucumber); Solanaceae (tomato, pepper, green tomato, eggplant); leafy vegetables (lettuce, chard, spinach, celery); Allium (onion, scallion, garlic, leek); peas; Cruciferae (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage); grapes; permanent crops, such as, for example, pineapple; citrus; black pepper; cardamom; durian; avocado, tree nuts, mango, tobacco, ginseng, hops, berries (e.g., strawberries, vine berries, bush berries), sugar cane, or green beans and peanuts.

[0193] Preferred crops are selected from tubers such as potatoes and other legumes and bulb vegetables.

[0194] Examples according to the present invention are provided, as listed below. The following are provided as non-limiting examples of the present disclosure.

[0195] Embodiment 1. A composition comprising:

[0196] First Agrochemicals;

[0197] Second agricultural chemicals;

[0198] at least one component selected from the group consisting of surfactants, emulsifiers, and dispersants; and

[0199] A solvent system, the solvent system dissolving the first agricultural chemical and the second agricultural chemical, the solvent system comprising:

[0200] Water-soluble solvents, and

[0201] Some water-soluble solvents;

[0202] wherein the composition is a dispersible concentrate; and

[0203] The first agricultural chemical is different from the second agricultural chemical.

[0204] Embodiment 2. The composition of embodiment 1, wherein the first agricultural chemical is trifloxythiazide.

[0205] Embodiment 3. The composition of embodiment 1, wherein the first agricultural chemical is metalaxyl-M.

[0206] Embodiment 4. The composition of embodiment 1, wherein the first agricultural chemical is fluthiazolin and the second agricultural chemical is metalaxyl-M.

[0207] Embodiment 5. The composition of any one of embodiments 1-4, wherein the water-soluble solvent has a solubility of at least 10% w / w, preferably 50% w / w, and most preferably 90% w / w, 91% w / w, 92% w / w, 93% w / w, 94% w / w, 95% w / w, 96% w / w, 97% w / w, 98% w / w, 99% w / w, or 100% w / w (completely miscible).

[0208] Embodiment 6. A composition as described in any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the water-soluble solvent is dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether; ethyl lactate; n-propyl-L-lactate; methyl L-lactate; N-methylpyrrolidone; 4-methyl-1,3-dioxolane-2-one; or tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol.

[0209] Embodiment 7. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the water-soluble solvent is an ester-amide derivative of lactic acid.

[0210] Embodiment 8. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the water-soluble solvent is N,N-dimethyllactamide.

[0211] Embodiment 9. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the partially water-soluble solvent has a solubility of 0.01% w / w to 10% w / w, preferably 0.01% w / w to 5% w / w, and most preferably 0.1% w / w to 1% w / w.

[0212] Embodiment 10. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the partially water-soluble solvent is benzyl acetate; butyl acetate and isomers; n-propyl L-lactate; a mixture of N,N-dimethyloctanamide and N,N-dimethyldecanamide; cyclohexanone; or isophorone.

[0213] Embodiment 11. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the partially water-soluble solvent is an aromatic ketone.

[0214] Embodiment 12. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the partially water-soluble solvent is acetophenone.

[0215] Embodiment 13. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the partially water-soluble solvent is a lactate-derivative.

[0216] Embodiment 14. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the partially water-soluble solvent is 2-ethylhexyl-S-lactate.

[0217] Embodiment 15. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 14, wherein the solvent system further comprises a second portion of a water-soluble solvent having a different affinity for water than the first portion of the water-soluble solvent.

[0218] Embodiment 16. The composition of embodiment 15, wherein the first portion of the water-soluble solvent is an aromatic ketone and the second portion of the water-soluble solvent is a lactate-derivative.

[0219] Embodiment 17. The composition of embodiment 16, wherein the partially water-soluble solvent is acetophenone and the second partially water-soluble solvent is 2-ethylhexyl-S-lactate.

[0220] Embodiment 18. The composition of embodiment 1, wherein:

[0221] The first agricultural chemical is fluthiapiprolin,

[0222] The second agrochemical is Metalaxyl-M,

[0223] The water-soluble solvent is an ester-amide derivative of lactic acid;

[0224] The partially water-soluble solvent is an aromatic ketone;

[0225] The solvent system further comprises a second portion of a water-soluble solvent, the second portion of the water-soluble solvent being a lactate-derivative.

[0226] Embodiment 19. The composition of embodiment 18, wherein:

[0227] The water-soluble solvent is N,N-dimethyl lactamide;

[0228] The partially water-soluble solvent is acetophenone; and

[0229] The second portion of the water-soluble solvent is 2-ethylhexyl-S-lactate.

[0230] Embodiment 20. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 19, wherein the total amount of the agrochemical present in the composition is 1% w / w to 40% w / w, preferably 1% w / w to 30% w / w, and most preferably 5% w / w to 20% w / w.

[0231] Embodiment 21. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 20, wherein the first agrochemical is present in the composition at 1% w / w to 20% w / w, preferably 1% w / w to 10% w / w, and most preferably 1% w / w to 5% w / w.

[0232] Embodiment 22. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 21, wherein the second agrochemical is present in the composition at 1% w / w to 30% w / w, preferably 5% w / w to 30% w / w, and most preferably 5% w / w to 25% w / w.

[0233] Embodiment 23. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 22, wherein the total amount of solvent present in the composition is 40% w / w to 80% w / w, preferably 50% w / w to 70% w / w, and most preferably 55% w / w to 65% w / w.

[0234] Embodiment 24. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 23, wherein the water-soluble solvent is present in the composition at 10% w / w to 40% w / w, preferably 10% w / w to 30% w / w, and most preferably 15% w / w to 25% w / w.

[0235] Embodiment 25. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 24, wherein the partially water-soluble solvent is present in the composition at 5% w / w to 25% w / w, preferably 5% w / w to 20% w / w, and most preferably 10% w / w to 20% w / w.

[0236] Embodiment 26. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 25, wherein the second portion of water-soluble solvent (when present) is present in the composition at 5% w / w to 25% w / w, preferably 5% w / w to 20% w / w, and most preferably 10% w / w to 20% w / w.

[0237] Embodiment 27. A composition as described in any of embodiments 1 to 27, wherein the ratio of water-soluble solvent to partially water-soluble solvent is 1:9 to 9:1, preferably 1:5 to 5:1, and most preferably 1:3 to 3:1.

[0238] Embodiment 28. A composition as described in any of embodiments 1 to 27, wherein when the second portion of water-soluble solvent is present, the ratio of the first portion of water-soluble solvent to the second portion of water-soluble solvent is 1:9 to 9:1, preferably 1:4 to 4:1, and most preferably 1:3 to 3:1.

[0239] Embodiment 29. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 28, wherein the at least one component selected from surfactants, emulsifiers, and dispersants is present at 0.01% to 40%.

[0240] Embodiment 30. The composition of embodiment 29, wherein the at least one component selected from surfactants, emulsifiers, and dispersants is selected from at least one of the following: polyoxyalkylene copolymers (such as, for example, Toximul® 8320), ethoxylated castor oil (such as, for example, Toximul® 8240), sorbitol (such as, for example, Tween® 80), and alkyl aryl sulfonates (such as, for example, Nansa® EVM63 / B).

[0241] Embodiment 31. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 30, wherein the composition further comprises a defoaming agent.

[0242] Embodiment 32. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 31, wherein the composition is free of dispersants or crystal growth inhibitors.

[0243] Embodiment 33. A method comprising diluting the composition of embodiment 1 with water.

[0244] Embodiment 34. The method of embodiment 33, wherein the dilution is 1-20'000 times, preferably 2-15'000 times, and most preferably 5-5'000 times.

[0245] Embodiment 35. The method of embodiment 34, further comprising applying an agrochemically effective amount of the diluted composition to a pest, a plant susceptible to the pest, or a locus of the pest susceptible to the pest.

[0246] Embodiment 36. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 32, wherein after dilution with water, the particle size of the agricultural chemicals in the composition remains substantially below 300 microns.

[0247] Embodiment 37. A composition comprising:

[0248] Fluthiazolin;

[0249] Metalaxyl-M;

[0250] at least one component selected from the group consisting of surfactants, emulsifiers, and dispersants; and

[0251] A solvent system, the solvent system comprising:

[0252] Water-soluble solvents,

[0253] Part I Water-soluble solvents, and

[0254] The second part is a water-soluble solvent.

[0255] Embodiment 38. The composition of embodiment 37, wherein the composition is a dispersible concentrate.

[0256] Embodiment 39. The composition of embodiment 37 or 38, wherein the total amount of the agrochemical present in the composition is 5% w / w to 20% w / w.

[0257] Embodiment 40. The composition of embodiment 39, wherein the total amount of solvent present in the composition is 40% w / w to 80% w / w.

[0258] Embodiment 41. A composition as described in embodiment 40, wherein:

[0259] The water-soluble solvent is an ester-amide derivative of lactic acid;

[0260] The first portion of the water-soluble solvent is an aromatic ketone; and

[0261] The second portion of water-soluble solvent is a lactate-derivative.

[0262] Embodiment 42. The composition of embodiment 40, wherein:

[0263] The water-soluble solvent is N,N-dimethyl lactamide;

[0264] The first portion of the water-soluble solvent is acetophenone; and

[0265] The second portion of the water-soluble solvent is 2-ethylhexyl-S-lactate.

[0266] Embodiment 43. A composition as described in Embodiment 40, wherein the ratio of water-soluble solvent to partially water-soluble solvent is 1:3 to 3:1.

[0267] Embodiment 44. A composition comprising:

[0268] First Agrochemicals;

[0269] Second agricultural chemicals;

[0270] at least one component selected from the group consisting of surfactants, emulsifiers, and dispersants; and

[0271] A solvent system, the solvent system dissolving the first agricultural chemical and the second agricultural chemical, the solvent system comprising:

[0272] Water-soluble solvents, and

[0273] Some water-soluble solvents;

[0274] wherein the composition is a dispersible concentrate; and

[0275] The first agricultural chemical is different from the second agricultural chemical.

[0276] Embodiment 45. The composition of embodiment 44, wherein:

[0277] The total amount of the agrochemical present in the composition is 5% w / w to 20% w / w; and

[0278] The total amount of solvent present in the composition is from 40% w / w to 80% w / w.

[0279] Embodiment 46. The composition of embodiment 44, further comprising:

[0280] 5% w / w to 25% w / w of a second portion of a water-miscible solvent; and

[0281] in:

[0282] The water-soluble solvent is present at 10% w / w to 40% w / w;

[0283] The first portion of the water-soluble solvent is present in the composition at 5% to 25%; and

[0284] The ratio of the water-soluble solvent to the partially water-soluble solvent is 1:3 to 3:1.

[0285] Embodiment 47. The composition of embodiment 46, wherein the particle size of the agricultural chemical in the composition remains substantially below 300 microns after dilution 100-20'000 times in water.

[0286] Embodiment 48. The composition of embodiment 47, wherein the composition does not contain a dispersant or a crystal growth inhibitor.

[0287] Embodiment 49. A composition comprising:

[0288] First Agrochemicals;

[0289] at least one component selected from the group consisting of surfactants, emulsifiers, and dispersants; and

[0290] A solvent system, the solvent system dissolving the first agricultural chemical, the solvent system comprising:

[0291] Water-soluble solvents,

[0292] Part I Water-soluble solvents, and

[0293] The second part is a water-soluble solvent;

[0294] wherein the composition is a dispersible concentrate; and

[0295] wherein the composition further optionally comprises a second agrochemical,

[0296] The first agricultural chemical is different from the second agricultural chemical.

[0297] Embodiment 50. The composition of embodiment 49, wherein:

[0298] The water-soluble solvent is an ester-amide derivative of a lactic acid derivative;

[0299] The first portion of the water-soluble solvent is an aromatic ketone; and

[0300] The second portion of water-soluble solvent is a lactate-derivative.

[0301] Embodiment 51. The composition of embodiment 49, wherein:

[0302] The water-soluble solvent is N,N-dimethyl lactamide;

[0303] The first portion of the water-soluble solvent is acetophenone; and

[0304] The second portion of the water-soluble solvent is 2-ethylhexyl-S-lactate.

[0305] Embodiment 52. A method comprising diluting any one of embodiments 37-50 in 100-20'000 times, preferably 2-15'000 times, and most preferably 5-5'000 times water.

[0306] Embodiment 53. The method of embodiment 52, further comprising applying an agrochemically effective amount of the diluted composition to a pest, a plant susceptible to the pest, or a locus of the pest susceptible to the pest.

[0307] Embodiment 54: The composition of any one of Embodiments 44 to 49, wherein the partially water-soluble solvent has a solubility in water at 20°C to 25°C of 0.01% w / w to 10% w / w.

[0308] Embodiment 55. The composition of any one of Embodiments 44 to 49, wherein the partially water-soluble solvent has a solubility in water at 20°C to 25°C of 0.01% w / w to 5% w / w.

[0309] Embodiment 56. The composition of any one of Embodiments 44 to 49, wherein the partially water-soluble solvent has a solubility in water at 20°C to 25°C of 0.01% w / w to 1% w / w.

[0310] Embodiment 57. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the partially water-soluble solvent has a solubility of 0.01% w / w to 10% w / w.

[0311] Embodiment 58. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the partially water-soluble solvent has a solubility of 0.01% w / w to 5% w / w.

[0312] Embodiment 59. The composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the partially water-soluble solvent has a solubility of 0.01% w / w to 1% w / w.

[0313] abbreviation

[0314] CAS Chemical Abstracts Service, Registration Number (CAS or CAS-RN)

[0315] DC Dispersible Concentrate

[0316] GPA Gallons per Acre (gal / ac or GPA)

[0317] GPM Gallons per minute (gal / min)

[0318] HP Horsepower (or hp)

[0319] n / aNot applicable

[0320] RT Room temperature (RT or rt) US United States of America

[0321] EXAMPLES The following examples illustrate the behavior associated with the compositions according to the invention.

[0322] As used herein, the term "gallon" refers to a unit of volume as used in the United States, and is defined as 3.785 liters (L).

[0323] As used herein, the term "GPA" refers to spray volume in gallons per acre (GPA or gal / ac) as used in the United States, where a volumetric area of ​​1 gal / ac is equal to 9.35 liters per hectare (L / ha).

[0324] As used herein, the term "GPM flow rate" refers to the "gallons per minute" flow rate as used in the United States, and 1 GPM is equal to 3.79 liters per minute (L / min).

[0325] As used herein, the term "fl oz / ac" refers to a unit of volume (also called capacity) as used in the United States, and 1 fl. oz / ac is equal to 0.0731 liters per hectare (L / ha).

[0326] As used herein, the term "horsepower" refers to a unit of measurement of power, or the rate at which work is performed, usually with reference to the output of an engine or motor. In this case, it refers to the ability of a spray can or pump on a can to recirculate or spray a diluted product. Horsepower (hp) is a unit of measurement measured in foot-pounds-seconds (fps or ft-lb / s). (One (1) horsepower is defined as pulling a 1 lb weight a distance of 33,000 ft in one minute). 1 horsepower equals 745.69 watts, so 0.75 (¾) horsepower (hp) equals 559.3 watts.

[0327] The components used in the following examples are detailed below:

[0328]

[0329]

[0330]

[0331]

[0332] Example 1

[0333] Each sample was prepared by mixing the ingredients together, then gently heating at approximately 35°C and stirring the mixture until a homogeneous solution was obtained, and then allowing it to cool to room temperature (20°C).

[0334] The concentrations of components added to form the compositions of Composition 1 and Composition A are listed in Table 1 below and are expressed as percentage by weight (% w / w) based on the total weight of the composition.

[0335] Table 1: Composition 1 and Composition A

[0336]

[0337] 1 The emulsifier 1 used in the present invention refers to a polyoxyalkylene copolymer, such as the commercially available Toximul® 8320

[0338] 2Emulsifier 2 used in the present invention refers to ethoxylated castor oil emulsifier, such as the commercially available Toximul® 8240

[0339] The different behaviour of composition 1 (dispersible concentrate (DC) according to the invention) and composition A (comparative dispersible concentrate (DC) of fluthiazolin and metalaxyl-M in dimethylaminoether as solvent system) during spray application was tested on a laboratory scale under various conditions

[0340] Failure was found at lab scale using the following Test Composition A: 20 Gallon Spray Equipment: Tank, 559.3 Metric Horsepower Pump, 3450 RPM Centrifugal Pump, 27-30 PSI Pressure, 1-1.3 GPM Flow Rate. Crystals 5-10 µm in length were present in the tank mix after approximately 12 tank inversions (2 hours of continuous agitation). Gritty residue began to accumulate on the in-line filter and on the walls of the spray tank with cumulative buildup on subsequent loads. Test conditions were set at four 10 gallon loads with three hours of agitation each. Results are shown in Figure 1A , 1B , 2, 3, 4A, and 4B. Figure 2 and 3 , reference numeral 100 indicates residue accumulation.

[0341] Composition 1 was tested with a spray volume of 5 GPM, the following test conditions: RT, 500 ppm water, 4 x 10 gal loads, each load agitated for 3 hours. Minimal foaming was observed upon initial mixing and at the end of the spray for each spray. Spraying of all four loads was completed without major issues. Trace amounts of residue were on the 50 and 100 mesh in-line filters and nozzle screen. No residue remained in the tank after spraying. No significant cumulative buildup after four loads. Results are shown in Figure 5 and 6 in the image.

[0342] In general, the results of the laboratory scale spray application tests conducted under different conditions included those where Composition A failed (28 fl. oz. / ac; 5 GPA spray volume). Composition 1 passed the multi-load shear stress spray test at different spray volumes (5 GPA, 15 GPA, 200 GPA) in hard water at typical use rates. The product (after freeze-thaw cycles) also passed the multi-load test at low spray volumes (5 GPA) in hard water with high alkalinity under cold conditions at typical use rates. Good dispersion, low foaming, and minimal residue accumulation on the filter or in the tank were demonstrated.

[0343] Example 2

[0344] Other formulations with different combinations of co-formulations appear to have similar properties to Composition 1. The following compositions of Table 2 were tested and rated from A to D (where: A = Excellent; B = Good; C = Fair; D = Poor). 1 " indicates physical stability in the container for up to two weeks and for compositions labeled " 2 The rating of the composition indicates the dilution performance on a laboratory scale.

[0345] Table 2A

[0346]

[0347] Table 2B

[0348]

[0349] Table 2C

[0350]

[0351] Table 2D

[0352]

[0353] Table 2D (continued)

[0354]

[0355] Table 2E

[0356]

[0357] Table 2F

[0358]

[0359] Table 2F (continued)

[0360]

[0361] Table 2G

[0362]

[0363] Table 2H

[0364]

[0365] Although only several exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, it will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art that many modifications to the exemplary embodiments are possible without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the present invention. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention as defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A composition comprising: Fluthiazolidinone; Metalaxyl-M; at least one component selected from the group consisting of surfactants, emulsifiers, and dispersants; and A solvent system, the solvent system comprising: Water-soluble solvents, Part I Water-soluble solvents, and The second part is a water-soluble solvent.

2. The composition according to claim 1, wherein The composition is a dispersible concentrate.

3. The composition according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein The total amount of agrochemical present in the composition is from 5% w / w to 20% w / w.

4. The composition according to claim 3, wherein The total amount of solvent present in the composition is from 40% w / w to 80% w / w.

5. The composition according to claim 4, wherein: The water-soluble solvent is a lactic acid derivative; The first portion of the water-soluble solvent is an aromatic ketone; and The second portion of the water-soluble solvent is a lactic acid derivative.

6. The composition according to claim 4, wherein: The water-soluble solvent is N,N-dimethyl lactamide; The first portion of the water-soluble solvent is acetophenone; and The second portion of the water-soluble solvent is 2-ethylhexyl-S-lactate.

7. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein The ratio of the water-soluble solvent to the partially water-soluble solvent is 1:3 to 3:

1.

8. A composition comprising: First Agrochemicals; Second agricultural chemicals; at least one component selected from the group consisting of surfactants, emulsifiers, and dispersants; and A solvent system, wherein the solvent system dissolves the first agricultural chemical and the second agricultural chemical, and the solvent system comprises: Water-soluble solvents, and Some water-soluble solvents; wherein the composition is a dispersible concentrate; and The first agricultural chemical is different from the second agricultural chemical.

9. The composition according to claim 8, wherein: The total amount of agrochemical present in the composition is 5% w / w to 20% w / w; and The total amount of solvent present in the composition is from 40% w / w to 80% w / w.

10. The composition according to claim 9, further comprising: 5% w / w to 25% w / w of a second portion of a water-miscible solvent; and in: The water-soluble solvent is present at 10% w / w to 40% w / w; The partially water-soluble solvent is present in the composition at 5% to 25%; and The ratio of the water-soluble solvent to the partially water-soluble solvent is 1:3 to 3:

1.

11. The composition according to claim 9, wherein After 100-20'000 times dilution in water, the particle size of the agrochemical in the composition remains substantially below 300 microns.

12. The composition according to claim 11, wherein The composition contains no dispersants or crystal growth inhibitors.

13. A composition comprising: First Agrochemicals; at least one component selected from the group consisting of surfactants, emulsifiers, and dispersants; and A solvent system, wherein the solvent system dissolves the first agricultural chemical, and the solvent system comprises: Water-soluble solvents, Part I Water-soluble solvents, and The second part is a water-soluble solvent; wherein the composition is a dispersible concentrate; and wherein the composition further optionally comprises a second agricultural chemical, The first agricultural chemical is different from the second agricultural chemical.

14. The composition according to claim 13, wherein: The water-soluble solvent is a lactic acid derivative; The first portion of the water-soluble solvent is an aromatic ketone; and The second portion of the water-soluble solvent is a lactic acid derivative.

15. The composition according to claim 13, wherein: The water-soluble solvent is N,N-dimethyl lactamide; The first portion of the water-soluble solvent is acetophenone; and The second portion of the water-soluble solvent is 2-ethylhexyl-S-lactate.

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