Storage-stable glufosinate-ammonium formulations

Abstract

The present invention relates to a glufosinate-containing formulation having good cold stability, to the use of 1-methoxy-2-propanol for improving the cold stability of a formulation comprising glufosinate, and to a method for selectively controlling weeds in a region comprising applying an effective amount of a formulation according to the invention.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a glufosinate-containing formulation having good cold stability, to the use of 1-methoxy-2-propanol for improving the cold stability of a formulation comprising glufosinate-ammonium, and to a method for selectively controlling weeds in an area, the method comprising applying an effective amount of the formulation of the invention.

[0002] The herbicide glufosinate is a non-selective foliar applied herbicide that is considered one of the safest herbicides from a toxicological or environmental point of view. L-glufosinate (also known as phosphinothricin or (S)-2-amino-4-(hydroxy(methyl)phosphono)butanoic acid) is known to be more effective than D-glufosinate (Ruhland et al. (2002) Environ. Biosafety Res. 1:29–37).

[0003] Weed killer herbicides are needed all over the world. Weed killer herbicides may need to be stored under various conditions, such as in unheated warehouses. Therefore, weed killer herbicides stable at quite cold temperatures are needed. With regard to formulations containing glufosinate, cold-stable formulations are available for use, but they provide reduced biological impacts (e.g. WO 2007092351).

[0004] Therefore, herbicidal formulations comprising L-glufosinate which have sufficient cold stability are of particular interest.

[0005] Against this background, the object of the present invention is to provide a glufosinate-ammonium-containing formulation, in particular a L-glufosinate-ammonium-containing formulation, which has sufficient cold stability. In addition, the object of the present invention is to provide a glufosinate-ammonium-containing formulation which has sufficient cold stability and sufficient biological impact.

[0006] The inventors of the present invention have surprisingly found that at least one of the above objects can be achieved by a specific herbicidal formulation as claimed. The inventors of the present invention have in particular found that this specific glufosinate-ammonium-containing formulation provides sufficient cold stability.

[0007] The present invention relates to a preparation comprising

[0008] 8.0 to 50.0 wt.-% of glufosinate-ammonium or its salts,

[0009] 19.0 to 50.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0010] 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0011] 4.0 to 15.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0012] 4.0 to 20.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0013] 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% water,

[0014] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0015] In particular, the present invention relates to a formulation comprising

[0016] 12.0 to 50.0 wt.-% of glufosinate-ammonium or its salts,

[0017] 19.0 to 40.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0018] 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0019] 4.0 to 15.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0020] 4.0 to 20.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0021] 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% water,

[0022] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0023] As used herein, the term "glufosinate" may refer to L-glufosinate, D-glufosinate, or a mixture of L- and D-glufosinate, such as a racemic mixture of L- and D-glufosinate.

[0024] If glufosinate or its salt is a racemic mixture of L- and D-glufosinate, it is preferably present in the formulation in an amount of 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation. In particular, if glufosinate or its salt is a racemic mixture of L- and D-glufosinate, it may be present in the formulation in an amount of 24.0 to 48.0 wt.-%, preferably 28.0 to 45.0 wt.-%, more preferably 30.0 to 42.0 wt.-%, and in particular 32.0 to 40.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0025] If the glufosinate or its salt is L-glufosinate or its salt, it is preferably present in the formulation in an amount of 8.0 to 28.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation. In particular, if the glufosinate or its salt is L-glufosinate or its salt, it may be present in the formulation in an amount of 12.0 to 28.0 wt.-%, preferably 14.0 to 25.0 wt.-%, more preferably 15.0 to 22.0 wt.-%, and in particular 16.0 to 20.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0026] Therefore, in a preferred embodiment, glufosinate or its salt is present in the formulation in an amount of 24.0 to 48.0 wt.-%, preferably 28.0 to 45.0 wt.-%, more preferably 30.0 to 42.0 wt.-%, and in particular 32.0 to 40.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0027] In another preferred embodiment, the glufosinate or its salt is L-glufosinate or its salt, which is preferably present in the formulation in an amount of 8.0 to 28.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0028] In another preferred embodiment, the glufosinate or its salt is L-glufosinate or its salt, which is preferably present in the formulation in an amount of 12.0 to 28.0 wt.-%, preferably 14.0 to 25.0 wt.-%, more preferably 15.0 to 22.0 wt.-%, and in particular 16.0 to 20.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, glufosinate or its salt is glufosinate ammonium, preferably L-glufosinate ammonium. Therefore, in a particularly preferred embodiment, the formulation of the present invention comprises L-glufosinate ammonium in an amount of 8.0 to 28.0 wt.-% based on the total weight of the formulation. In another particularly preferred embodiment, the formulation comprises L-glufosinate ammonium in an amount of 12.0 to 28.0 wt.-%, preferably 14.0% to 25.0 wt.-%, more preferably 15.0 to 22.0 wt.-%, and particularly 16.0 to 20.0 wt.-% based on the total weight of the formulation. In another particularly preferred embodiment, the formulation comprises 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% of racemic glufosinate ammonium based on the total weight of the formulation. In another particularly preferred embodiment, the formulation comprises racemic glufosinate-ammonium in an amount of 24.0 to 48.0 wt.-%, preferably 28.0 to 45.0 wt.-%, more preferably 30.0 to 42.0 wt.-%, and in particular 32.0 to 40.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0030] As indicated above, the alkyl ether sulfate may be present in the formulation in an amount of 19.0 to 50.0 wt.-%.In a preferred embodiment, the alkyl ether sulfate is present in the formulation in an amount of 19.0 to 40.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0031] In another preferred embodiment, the alkyl ether sulfate is present in the formulation in an amount of 19.0 to 38.0 wt.-%, preferably 19.5 to 35.0 wt.-%, more preferably 20.0 to 30.0 wt.-%, and in particular 22.0 to 28.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0032] In another preferred embodiment, the alkyl ether sulfate is lauryl ether sulfate.

[0033] In another preferred embodiment, 1-methoxy-2-propanol is present in the formulation in an amount of 3.0 to 9.0 wt.-%, preferably 4.0 to 8.0 wt.-%, more preferably 4.0 to 7.0 wt.-%, and in particular 5.0 to 6.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0034] In another preferred embodiment, dipropylene glycol is present in the formulation in an amount of 5.0 to 13.0 wt.-%, preferably 6.0 to 13.0 wt.-%, more preferably 7.0 to 11.0 wt.-% and in particular 7.0 to 9.5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0035] In another preferred embodiment, the alkylpolysaccharide is present in the formulation in an amount of 5.0 to 18.0 wt.-%, preferably 6.0 to 15.0 wt.-%, more preferably 6.5 to 13.0 wt.-%, and in particular 7.0 to 12.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0036] In another preferred embodiment, the formulation of the present invention comprises

[0037] 14.0 to 25.0 wt.-% of L-phosphinothion or its salts,

[0038] 19.0 to 35.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0039] 4.0 to 8.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0040] 6.0 to 13.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol, and

[0041] 6.0 to 18.0 wt.-% of alkyl polysaccharides,

[0042] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation, and wherein water is present as the balance of the formulation.

[0043] In another preferred embodiment, the alkyl ether sulfate is represented by the general formula (I):

[0044] R 1 -O(CH 2 CH 2 O)n-SO 3 M(I),

[0045] Where R 1is a saturated or unsaturated C4-C24-alkyl, preferably a C6-C20-alkyl, and in particular a C12-C14-alkyl; n is an average number from 1 to 30, preferably from 1 to 10, more preferably from 1 to 5; and M is monoethanolamine, triethanolammonium, Na+, K+ or NH 4 +, preferably monoethanolamine or sodium; and particularly wherein the alkyl ether sulfate is sodium lauryl ether sulfate.

[0046] In another preferred embodiment, the alkyl polysaccharide is represented by the general formula (II):

[0047] R 2 -O-(G) g -H(II),

[0048] Where R 2 is a saturated or unsaturated C4-C24-alkyl, preferably C6-C20-alkyl, and in particular C8-C10-alkyl or C8-C14-alkyl or C12-C14-alkyl; G is a glucose moiety, which is preferably attached via the C1 and C4 carbon atoms; and g is an average number from 1 to 50, preferably from 5 to 20; and in particular wherein the alkyl polysaccharide is an alkyl glycoside.

[0049] Furthermore, the present invention relates to the use of 1-methoxy-2-propanol for improving the cold stability of a formulation comprising glufosinate-ammonium or a salt thereof, an alkyl ether sulfate, dipropylene glycol, an alkyl polysaccharide and water.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment of said use, the formulation comprises 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% 1-methoxy-2-propanol, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0051] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for selectively controlling weeds in an area, which method comprises applying to the field an effective amount of a formulation as defined herein, in particular as defined above.

[0052] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a formulation comprising

[0053] 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% of glufosinate-ammonium or its salts,

[0054] 19.0 to 40.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0055] 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0056] 4.0 to 15.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0057] 4.0 to 20.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0058] 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% water,

[0059] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0060] In the following, preferred embodiments of the components of the formulation will be described in further detail. It should be understood that each preferred embodiment is relevant both in itself and in combination with other preferred embodiments.

[0061] In preferred embodiments A1 of the first aspect, glufosinate or its salt is present in the formulation in an amount of 24.0 to 48.0 wt.-%, preferably 28.0 to 45.0 wt.-%, more preferably 30.0 to 42.0 wt.-%, and in particular 32.0 to 40.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0062] In preferred embodiments A2 of the first aspect, glufosinate or its salt is L-glufosinate or its salt, which is preferably present in the formulation in an amount of 12.0 to 28.0 wt.-%, preferably 14.0 to 25.0 wt.-%, more preferably 15.0 to 22.0 wt.-%, and in particular 16.0 to 20.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0063] In preferred embodiment A3 of the first aspect, glufosinate or its salt is glufosinate ammonium, preferably L-glufosinate ammonium.

[0064] In preferred embodiments A4 of the first aspect, the alkyl ether sulfate is present in the formulation in an amount of 19.0 to 38.0 wt.-%, preferably 19.5 to 35.0 wt.-%, more preferably 20.0 to 30.0 wt.-%, and in particular 22.0 to 28.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0065] In preferred embodiments A5 of the first aspect, 1-methoxy-2-propanol is present in the formulation in an amount of 3.0 to 9.0 wt.-%, preferably 4.0 to 8.0 wt.-%, more preferably 4.0 to 7.0 wt.-%, and in particular 5.0 to 6.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0066] In preferred embodiments A6 of the first aspect, dipropylene glycol is present in the formulation in an amount of 5.0 to 13.0 wt.-%, preferably 6.0 to 13.0 wt.-%, more preferably 7.0 to 11.0 wt.-% and in particular 7.0 to 9.5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0067] In preferred embodiments A7 of the first aspect, the alkylpolysaccharide is present in the formulation in an amount of 5.0 to 18.0 wt.-%, preferably 6.0 to 15.0 wt.-%, more preferably 6.5 to 13.0 wt.-%, and in particular 7.0 to 12.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment A8 of the first aspect, the formulation comprises

[0069] 14.0 to 25.0 wt.-% of L-phosphinothion or its salts,

[0070] 19.0 to 35.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0071] 4.0 to 8.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0072] 6.0 to 13.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol, and

[0073] 6.0 to 18.0 wt.-% of alkyl polysaccharides,

[0074] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation, and wherein water is present as the balance of the formulation.

[0075] In the preferred embodiment A9 of the first aspect, the alkyl ether sulfate is represented by the general formula (I):

[0076] R1-O(CH2CH2O)n-SO3M(I),

[0077] wherein R1 is a saturated or unsaturated C4-C24-alkyl, preferably C6-C20-alkyl, and in particular C12-C14-alkyl; n is an average number from 1 to 30, preferably from 1 to 10, more preferably from 1 to 5; and M is monoethanolamine, triethanolammonium, Na+, K+ or NH4+, preferably monoethanolamine or sodium; and in particular wherein the alkyl ether sulfate is sodium lauryl ether sulfate.

[0078] In a preferred embodiment A10 of the first aspect, the alkyl polysaccharide is represented by the general formula (II):

[0079] R2-O-(G)gH(II),

[0080] wherein R2 is a saturated or unsaturated C4-C24-alkyl, preferably C6-C20-alkyl, and in particular C8-C10-alkyl or C8-C14-alkyl or C12-C14-alkyl; G is a glucose moiety, which is preferably attached via the C1 and C4 carbon atoms; and g is an average number from 1 to 50, preferably from 5 to 20; and in particular wherein the alkyl polysaccharide is an alkyl glycoside.

[0081] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to the use of 1-methoxy-2-propanol for improving the cold stability of a formulation comprising glufosinate or a salt thereof, an alkyl ether sulfate, dipropylene glycol, an alkyl polysaccharide and water.

[0082] In a preferred embodiment B1 of the second aspect, the formulation comprises 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% 1-methoxy-2-propanol, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0083] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a method for selectively controlling weeds in an area, the method comprising applying to the field an effective amount of a formulation as defined herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0084] Before describing exemplary embodiments of the present invention in detail, definitions important for understanding the present invention are given.

[0085] As used in this specification and the appended claims, unless the context clearly stipulates otherwise, the singular form "a / an" also includes the corresponding plural number. In the context of the present invention, the terms "about" and "approximately" represent that those skilled in the art will understand that the precision interval of the technical effect of the feature discussed is still guaranteed. The term typically indicates a deviation from the indicated value of ±10%, preferably ±5%, more preferably ±3%, and more preferably ±1%. It should be understood that the term "include / include" is not restrictive. For the purpose of the present invention, the term "consisting of..." is considered to be a preferred embodiment of the term "consisting of...". If a group is defined as including at least a certain number of embodiments below, this means that it also includes a group preferably consisting of only these embodiments. In addition, the terms "first", "second", "third" or "(a)", "(b)", "(c)", "(d)" and the like in the specification and claims are used to distinguish similar elements and are not necessarily used to describe a sequential order or a chronological order. It should be understood that the terms used in this way are interchangeable where appropriate, and the embodiments of the present invention described herein can be operated in other sequences except those described or shown herein. Where the terms "first", "second", "third" or "(a)", "(b)", "(c)", "(d)", "i", "ii", etc. refer to steps of a method or use or assay, there is no temporal or temporal time interval coherence between these steps, i.e., these steps may be performed simultaneously or there may be a time interval of seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, months or even years between such steps, unless otherwise indicated in this application as described above or below. It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific methods, protocols, reagents, etc. described herein, as these may vary. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which will be limited only by the appended claims. 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.

[0086] The term "wt.-%" as used throughout this text stands for "percent by weight".

[0087] Prefix C n -C m The possible number of carbon atoms in the group is indicated in each case.

[0088] As used herein, the term "alkyl" denotes in each case a straight-chain or branched alkyl group having generally 1 to 24 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 10 carbon atoms, frequently 1 to 6 carbon atoms, more preferably 1 to 4 carbon atoms, for example 3 or 4 carbon atoms. Examples of alkyl groups are methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, 2-butyl, isobutyl, tert-butyl, n-pentyl, 1-methylbutyl, 2-methylbutyl, 3-methylbutyl, 2,2-dimethylpropyl, 1-ethylpropyl, n-hexyl, 1,1-dimethylpropyl, 1,2-dimethylpropyl, 1-methylpentyl, 2-methylpentyl, 3-methylpentyl, 4-methylpentyl, 1,1-dimethylbutyl, 1,2-dimethylbutyl, 1,3-dimethylbutyl, 2,2-dimethylbutyl, 2,3-dimethylbutyl, 3,3-dimethylbutyl, 1-ethylbutyl, 2-ethylbutyl, 1,1,2-trimethylpropyl, 1,2,2-trimethylpropyl, 1-ethyl-1-methylpropyl, and 1-ethyl-2-methylpropyl. Preferred alkyl groups are methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, isobutyl, sec-butyl, tert-butyl, n-pentyl, isopentyl, neopentyl, tert-pentyl, hexyl, 2-methylpentyl, n-heptyl, n-octyl, 2-ethylhexyl, isooctyl, nonyl, isononyl, decyl, and isodecyl.

[0089] The term "at least one" as used above and throughout the following text means one or more, preferably one or two, and thus typically refers to a single compound or a mixture / combination.

[0090] When referring to weight percentages of compositions and ingredients contained therein, it is to be understood that the total amount of ingredients according to the present invention does not exceed 100% (± 1% due to rounding).

[0091] Unless otherwise expressly indicated, the present invention preferably encompasses all stereoisomers (i.e., pure enantiomers, pure diastereomers) of the compounds according to the invention, and mixtures thereof (including racemic mixtures). In particular, with respect to glufosinate, it is understood that the term preferably encompasses pure enantiomers L-glufosinate and D-glufosinate, and any mixtures thereof, including, for example, mixtures containing enantiomeric excess (ee) of L-glufosinate (e.g., at least 99% ee or 99.5% ee), and racemic mixtures.

[0092] Preferred embodiments of glufosinate-containing formulations, uses of 1-methoxy-2-propanol and methods for selectively controlling weeds are described in detail below. It should be understood that the preferred embodiments of the present invention are preferred individually or in combination with each other.

[0093] As indicated above, the present invention relates to a formulation comprising

[0094] 8.0 to 50.0 wt.-% of glufosinate-ammonium or its salts,

[0095] 19.0 to 50.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0096] 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0097] 4.0 to 15.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0098] 4.0 to 20.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0099] 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% water,

[0100] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0101] In particular, the present invention relates to a formulation comprising

[0102] 12.0 to 50.0 wt.-% of glufosinate-ammonium or its salts,

[0103] 19.0 to 40.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0104] 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0105] 4.0 to 15.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0106] 4.0 to 20.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0107] 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% water,

[0108] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0109] As indicated above, in one aspect, the present invention relates to a formulation comprising

[0110] 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% of glufosinate-ammonium or its salts,

[0111] 19.0 to 40.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0112] 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0113] 4.0 to 15.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0114] 4.0 to 20.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0115] 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% water,

[0116] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0117] In this regard, it is preferred that the glufosinate or its salt is a racemic mixture of D- and L-glufosinate.

[0118] In another aspect, the invention relates to a formulation comprising

[0119] 8.0 to 28.0 wt.-% of glufosinate-ammonium or its salts,

[0120] 19.0 to 50.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0121] 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0122] 4.0 to 15.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0123] 4.0 to 20.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0124] 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% water,

[0125] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0126] In this regard, it is preferred that the glufosinate or its salt is L-glufosinate or its salt, especially L-glufosinate ammonium.

[0127] Therefore, in one embodiment, the present invention relates to a formulation comprising

[0128] 8.0 to 28.0 wt.-% of L-phosphinothion or its salts,

[0129] 19.0 to 50.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0130] 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0131] 4.0 to 15.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0132] 4.0 to 20.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0133] 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% water,

[0134] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0135] Particularly preferably, L-glufosinate or its salt is L-glufosinate ammonium.

[0136] In another aspect, the invention relates to a formulation comprising

[0137] 8.0 to 28.0 wt.-% of glufosinate-ammonium or its salts,

[0138] 19.0 to 40.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0139] 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0140] 4.0 to 15.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0141] 4.0 to 20.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0142] 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% water,

[0143] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0144] In this regard, it is preferred that the glufosinate or its salt is L-glufosinate or its salt, especially L-glufosinate ammonium.

[0145] Therefore, in one embodiment, the present invention relates to a formulation comprising

[0146] 8.0 to 28.0 wt.-% of L-phosphinothion or its salts,

[0147] 19.0 to 40.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0148] 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0149] 4.0 to 15.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0150] 4.0 to 20.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0151] 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% water,

[0152] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0153] Particularly preferably, L-glufosinate or its salt is L-glufosinate ammonium.

[0154] In yet another aspect, the invention relates to a formulation comprising

[0155] 12.0 to 28.0 wt.-% of glufosinate or its salts,

[0156] 19.0 to 40.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0157] 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0158] 4.0 to 15.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0159] 4.0 to 20.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0160] 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% water,

[0161] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0162] In this regard, it is preferred that the glufosinate or its salt is L-glufosinate or its salt, especially L-glufosinate ammonium.

[0163] Therefore, in one embodiment, the present invention relates to a formulation comprising

[0164] 12.0 to 28.0 wt.-% of L-phosphinothion or its salts,

[0165] 19.0 to 40.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0166] 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0167] 4.0 to 15.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0168] 4.0 to 20.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0169] 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% water,

[0170] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0171] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to a formulation comprising

[0172] 14.0 to 25.0 wt.-% of L-phosphinothion or its salts,

[0173] 19.0 to 40.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0174] 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0175] 4.0 to 15.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0176] 4.0 to 20.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0177] 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% water,

[0178] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0179] In a more preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to a formulation comprising

[0180] 15.0 to 22.0 wt.-% of L-phosphinothion or its salts,

[0181] 19.0 to 40.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0182] 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0183] 4.0 to 15.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0184] 4.0 to 20.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0185] 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% water,

[0186] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0187] In a still more preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to a formulation comprising

[0188] 16.0 to 20.0 wt.-% of L-phosphinothion or its salts,

[0189] 19.0 to 40.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0190] 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0191] 4.0 to 15.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0192] 4.0 to 20.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0193] 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% water,

[0194] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0195] Particularly preferably, L-glufosinate or its salt is L-glufosinate ammonium.

[0196] It should be understood that glufosinate-ammonium or its salt encompasses all stereoisomers and mixtures thereof and the suitable salt of corresponding glufosinate-ammonium. Suitable salt is illustratively hydrochloride, ammonium salt and isopropylammonium salt. In this regard, the term glufosinate-ammonium or its salt encompasses two stereocenters especially, wherein one stereocenter is located at the phosphorus atom, and a stereocenter is located at the α carbon atom. It should be understood that the term glufosinate-ammonium or its salt encompasses all stereoisomers.

[0197] Racemic glufosinate has the formula (1)

[0198]

[0199] In a preferred embodiment, glufosinate or its salt is present in the formulation in an amount of 24.0 to 48.0 wt.-%, preferably 28.0 to 45.0 wt.-%, more preferably 30.0 to 42.0 wt.-%, and in particular 32.0 to 40.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0200] In a preferred embodiment, glufosinate or its salt is a racemic mixture thereof, which is present in the formulation in an amount of 24.0 to 48.0 wt.-%, preferably 28.0 to 45.0 wt.-%, more preferably 30.0 to 42.0 wt.-%, and in particular 32.0 to 40.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0201] In a preferred embodiment, the glufosinate or its salt is D-glufosinate or its salt, which is preferably present in the formulation in an amount of 12.0 to 28.0 wt.-%, preferably 14.0 to 25.0 wt.-%, more preferably 15.0 to 22.0 wt.-%, even more preferably 15.5 to 21.0 wt.-%, and in particular 16.0 to 20.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0202] In a preferred embodiment, the glufosinate or its salt is L-glufosinate or its salt, which is preferably present in the formulation in an amount of 12.0 to 28.0 wt.-%, preferably 14.0 to 25.0 wt.-%, more preferably 15.0 to 22.0 wt.-%, even more preferably 15.5 to 21.0 wt.-%, and in particular 16.0 to 20.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0203] Glufosinate or its salt may be provided as an aqueous solution.

[0204] In a preferred embodiment, the glufosinate or salt thereof is racemic ammonium glufosinate.

[0205] In a preferred embodiment, the glufosinate or its salt is D-glufosinate ammonium.

[0206] In a preferred embodiment, the glufosinate or its salt is glufosinate ammonium, preferably L-glufosinate ammonium.

[0207] In a particular embodiment, the glufosinate or its salt is glufosinate ammonium, preferably L-glufosinate ammonium, which is present in the formulation in an amount of 12.0 to 28.0 wt.-%, preferably 14.0 to 25.0 wt.-%, more preferably 15.0 to 22.0 wt.-%, even more preferably 15.5 to 21.0 wt.-%, and in particular 16.0 to 20.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0208] In a preferred embodiment, the alkyl ether sulfate is present in the formulation in an amount of 19.0 to 38.0 wt.-%, preferably 19.5 to 35.0 wt.-%, more preferably 20.0 to 30.0 wt.-%, even more preferably 22.0 to 28.0 wt.-%, and in particular 23.0 to 28.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0209] In a preferred embodiment, 1-methoxy-2-propanol is present in the formulation in an amount of 3.0 to 9.0 wt.-%, preferably 4.0 to 8.0 wt.-%, more preferably 4.0 to 7.0 wt.-%, even more preferably 4.5 to 6.5 wt.-%, and in particular 5.0 to 6.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0210] In another preferred embodiment, the formulation comprises 4.5 to 10.0 wt.-%, preferably 5.0 to 9.0 wt.-%, more preferably 6.0 to 8.0 wt.-%, in particular 7.0 to 8.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0211] In a preferred embodiment, dipropylene glycol is present in the formulation in an amount of 5.0 to 13.0 wt.-%, preferably 6.0 to 13.0 wt.-%, more preferably 7.0 to 11.0 wt.-%, even more preferably 7.0 to 9.5 wt.-%, and in particular 8.0 to 9.5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0212] In a preferred embodiment, the alkylpolysaccharide is present in the formulation in an amount of 5.0 to 18.0 wt.-%, preferably 6.0 to 15.0 wt.-%, more preferably 6.5 to 13.0 wt.-%, even more preferably 7.0 to 12.0 wt.-%, and in particular 7.5 to 10.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0213] In a preferred embodiment, the formulation comprises

[0214] 14.0 to 25.0 wt.-% of L-glufosinate or its salts, preferably L-glufosinate ammonium,

[0215] 19.0 to 35.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0216] 4.0 to 8.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0217] 6.0 to 13.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol, and

[0218] 6.0 to 18.0 wt.-% of alkyl polysaccharides,

[0219] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation, and wherein water is present as the balance of the formulation.

[0220] In a preferred embodiment, the formulation comprises

[0221] 14.0 to 25.0 wt.-% of L-glufosinate or its salts, preferably L-glufosinate ammonium,

[0222] 19.0 to 35.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0223] 4.0 to 8.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0224] 6.0 to 13.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0225] 6.0 to 18.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0226] 14.0 to 25.0 wt.-% water,

[0227] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation, and wherein water is present as the balance of the formulation.

[0228] In a preferred embodiment, the formulation comprises

[0229] 16.0 to 22.0 wt.-% of L-glufosinate or its salts, preferably L-glufosinate ammonium,

[0230] 22.0 to 28.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0231] 4.5 to 7.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0232] 7.0 to 12.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0233] 7.0 to 12.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0234] 16.0 to 22.0 wt.-% water,

[0235] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation, and wherein water is present as the balance of the formulation.

[0236] Preferably, the formulation comprises glufosinate or its salt and the alkyl ether sulfate in a weight ratio of 4:1 to 1:5, preferably 2:1 to 1:3, more preferably 1:1 to 1:2.

[0237] Preferably, the formulation comprises glufosinate or a salt thereof and 1-methoxy-2-propanol in a weight ratio of 10:1 to 1:2, preferably 8:1 to 1:1, more preferably 5:1 to 2:1.

[0238] Preferably, the formulation comprises glufosinate or its salt and dipropylene glycol in a weight ratio of 8:1 to 1:2, preferably 6:1 to 1:1, more preferably 3:1 to 1:1.

[0239] Preferably, the formulation comprises glufosinate or its salt and the alkylpolysaccharide in a weight ratio of 8:1 to 1:2, preferably 6:1 to 1:1, more preferably 4:1 to 1:1.

[0240] Preferably, the formulation comprises glufosinate or its salt and water in a weight ratio of 4:1 to 1:4, preferably 2:1 to 1:2, more preferably 1.5:1 to 1:1.5.

[0241] Preferably, the formulation comprises the alkyl ether sulfate and the alkyl polysaccharide in a weight ratio of 10:1 to 1:2, preferably 5:1 to 1:1, more preferably 4:1 to 2:1.

[0242] Alkyl ether sulfates are generally defined as salts of sulfated adducts of ethylene oxide with fatty alcohols containing 4 to 24, preferably 6 to 20, more preferably 6 to 16 carbon atoms. Preferably, the alkyl ether sulfates used herein contain straight chain aliphatic groups having 4 to 24, preferably 6 to 20, more preferably 6 to 16, especially 12 to 16 carbon atoms. The degree of oxirane may be 1 to 10 moles of ethylene oxide, typically 2 to 4 moles of ethylene oxide. Examples include sodium lauryl ether sulfate, ammonium lauryl ether sulfate, and other lauryl ether sulfates.

[0243] In a preferred embodiment, the alkyl ether sulfate is represented by the general formula (I):

[0244] R1-O(CH2CH2O)n-SO3M(I),

[0245] wherein R1 is a saturated or unsaturated C4-C24-alkyl, preferably C6-C20-alkyl, and in particular C12-C14-alkyl; n is an average number from 1 to 30, preferably from 1 to 10, more preferably from 1 to 5; and M is monoethanolamine, triethanolammonium, Na+, K+ or NH4+, preferably monoethanolamine or sodium; and in particular wherein the alkyl ether sulfate is sodium lauryl ether sulfate.

[0246] The alkyl ether sulfate may be provided as an aqueous solution, preferably comprising 50 to 90 wt.-%, more preferably 60 to 80 wt.-%, and especially 65 to 75 wt.-% of the alkyl ether sulfate, based on the total weight of the aqueous solution.

[0247] In a preferred embodiment, the alkyl polysaccharide is represented by the general formula (II)

[0248] R2-O-(G)gH(II),

[0249] wherein R2 is a saturated or unsaturated C4-C24-alkyl, preferably C6-C20-alkyl, and in particular C8-C10-alkyl or C8-C14-alkyl or C12-C14-alkyl; G is a glucose moiety, which is preferably attached via the C1 and C4 carbon atoms; and g is an average number from 1 to 50, preferably from 5 to 20; and in particular wherein the alkyl polysaccharide is an alkyl glycoside (also called alkyl polyglycoside or APG).

[0250] In a preferred embodiment, the alkyl polysaccharide is an alkyl polysaccharide glycoside, which can be represented by the general formula (IIa):

[0251] R2aO(R2bO)b(Z)a(IIa)

[0252] wherein R2a is a monovalent organic group having 6 to 30 carbon atoms; R2b is a divalent alkylene group having 2 to 4 carbon atoms; Z is a glucose residue having 5 or 6 carbon atoms; b is a number ranging from 0 to 12; and a is a number ranging from 1 to 6. Non-limiting examples of commercially available alkyl polyglycosides include, for example, BASF; Croda; Nouryon; or Surfactants, such as:

[0253] 1. AGNIQUE PG 8105 surfactant - alkyl glycoside wherein the alkyl group contains 8 to 10 carbon atoms and has an average degree of polymerization of 1.5.

[0254] 2. AGNIQUE PG 8166 surfactant - an alkyl polyglycoside wherein the alkyl group contains from 8 to 16 carbon atoms and has an average degree of polymerization of 1.6.

[0255] 3. AGNIQUE PG 266 surfactant - an alkyl polyglycoside wherein the alkyl group contains from 12 to 16 carbon atoms and has an average degree of polymerization of 1.6.

[0256] 4. AGNIQUE PG 9116 surfactant - an alkyl polyglycoside in which the alkyl group contains 9 to 11 carbon atoms and has an average degree of polymerization of 1.6.

[0257] 5. AGNIQUE PG 264-U surfactant - alkyl glycoside wherein the alkyl group contains 12 to 16 carbon atoms and has an average degree of polymerization of 1.4.

[0258] 6. AGNIQUE PG 8107 surfactant - C8-16 alkyl glycoside wherein the alkyl group contains 8 to 10 carbon atoms and has an average degree of polymerization of 1.7.

[0259] 7. AGNIQUE PG 266 surfactant - C12-16 alkyl glycoside wherein the alkyl group contains 12 to 16 carbon atoms and has an average degree of polymerization of 1.6.

[0260] 8. AL 2575 / AL 535 surfactants - C8-11 alkyl glycosides wherein the alkyl group contains 8 to 11 carbon atoms and has an HLB of 12-13.

[0261] 9. Nouryon's AG 6202, AG 6206 or AG 6210 surfactants, which are 2-ethylhexyl branched C8 alkyl glycoside; linear hexyl C6 alkyl glycoside; and linear C8-C10 alkyl glycoside, respectively.

[0262] Alkyl glycosides may typically include C8-C16 alkyl glycosides. In a preferred embodiment, an alkyl glycoside having formula (IIa) is used, wherein R2a is a monovalent organic group having 8 to 10 carbon atoms; b is zero; and a is a number having a value of 1 to 3, typically 1.5 to 1.7, usually 1.6.

[0263] The alkylpolysaccharide may be provided as an aqueous solution, preferably comprising 40 to 80 wt.-%, more preferably 50 to 70 wt.-%, and in particular 55 to 65 wt.-% of the alkylpolysaccharide, based on the total weight of the aqueous solution.

[0264] In a preferred embodiment, the formulation has a flash point (determined according to CIPAC, MT 12 - Flash Point, Handbook F; https: / / www.cipac.org / index.php / f12 / 364-mt-12-flash-point) of more than 90°C, preferably more than 100°C, and in particular more than 110°C. In this regard, the flash point is determined according to CIPAC, MT 12 - Flash Point, Handbook F as follows: The sample is placed in the cup of the apparatus and heated at a slow, uniform rate. A small test flame is periodically introduced into the cup, and the flash point is considered to be the lowest temperature at which the application of the flame causes the vapor above the sample to ignite, with a noticeable flash in the cup.

[0265] In a preferred embodiment, the formulation has a g / cm 3 , preferably 1.115 to 1.135 g / cm 3 , and particularly 1.120 to 1.130 g / cm 3 Density (determined according to OECD Test Guide 109).

[0266] In a preferred embodiment, the formulation further comprises at least one additional component such as defoamers, wetting agents, dispersants, emulsifiers, penetrants, preservatives, antifreeze agents and evaporation inhibitors (such as glycerol and ethylene glycol or propylene glycol, sorbitol, sodium lactate), fillers, carriers, colorants (including pigments and / or dyes), pH adjusters (buffers, acids and bases), salts (such as calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, ammonium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium chloride and / or ferric chloride), and combinations thereof.

[0267] The pigment or dye can be any available color (typically considered harmless). In some embodiments, the dye is present in less than about 1 wt.-%, or less than about 2 wt.-%, or less than about 3 wt.-%, or about 0.01 to 2 wt.-%, or about 0.01 to 1 wt.-%, based on the total amount of the formulation.

[0268] The formulations described herein may also contain other additives used as adjuvants or in combination with any of the above adjuvants, such as fertilizers, phytotoxicants and plant growth regulators, pesticides, etc. The compositions described herein may also be mixed with other materials (e.g., fertilizers, other phytotoxicants, etc.) and applied in a single application.

[0269] It will be appreciated that the herbicidal formulations may be used in combination with other herbicides. The herbicidal formulations of the present invention are typically applied in combination with one or more other herbicides to control a wider variety of undesirable vegetation. When used in combination with other herbicides, the formulations claimed herein may be formulated with the other herbicides or herbicides, tank mixed with the other herbicides or herbicides, or applied sequentially with the other herbicides or herbicides. Some herbicides that can be used in conjunction with the formulations of the present invention include: amide herbicides such as dimethoate, fluazifop, benzaclorac, benzylpyridinium, bromobutyric acid, benzophenone, CDEA, chlorsulfuron, tricyclam, dimethoate, dimethoate-S, bifenthrin, triazole, aniprofen, tetrazoline, fluazifop, flufenamid, flunitrosyl, sulfamethoxam, sulfamethoxam, isoxadiazine, chloranil ... oxadiazole, acetophenone, flufenacet, fluazifop, benzathine, flusulfamide, oxadiazole, heptamiprofen, naproxen, chloranil, flupyralid and propanil; arylalanine herbicides such as Xinyanling, mefenacet and mefenacet-M; chloroacetanilide herbicides such as acetochlor, alachlor, butachlor, butachlor, isobutachlor, acetochlor, dimethochlor, metazachlor, isopropyl metolachlor, S-isopropyl metolachlor, pretilachlor, cypermethrin, isopropyl metolachlor, propargyl sulfachlor, terbutaline, dimethenamid and dimethoate; sulfonyl anilide herbicides such as fluazifop-butyl, yellow grass chlor, pyriproxyfen and fluazifop-butyl; sulfonamide herbicides such as sulfamethoxam, carbazoline, benzosulfuron and chlorpyrifos; antibiotic herbicides such as bialaphos; benzoic acid herbicides such as chlorfenapyr, dicamba, 2,3,6-TBA and cypermethrin; pyrimidinyloxybenzoic acid herbicides such as bispyribac-butyl and pyrimidinylsulfuron; pyrimidinylthiobenzoic acid herbicides such as pyrimidinylsulfuron; phthalic acid herbicides such as chlorthalid; pyridinecarboxylic acid herbicides such as aminopyralid, clopyralid and piclopitamide; quinolinecarboxylic acid herbicides such as quinclorac and clomeclorac; arsenic herbicides such as dimethylarsinate, CMA, DSMA, hexamethon Potassium fluoroarsenate, MAA, MAMA, MSMA, potassium arsenite and sodium arsenite; benzoyl cyclohexanedione herbicides, such as mesotrione, sulcotrione, furansulfuron and cymbalton; benzofuranyl alkyl sulfonate herbicides, such as furosulfuron and ethoxyfurosulfuron; carbamate herbicides, such as sulfamethoxazole, teroxazolidinone, chlorpyrifos, benzylamine, acylbensulfuron, teranyl and terazolin; phenylcarbamate herbicides, such as avenaline, BCPC, carbazoline, carbazoline, CEPC, chlorpyrifos, chlorpropamide, CPPC, betaine, cottonamine, betaine, ethyl betaine, betaine and chlorpyrifos;Cyclohexene oxime herbicides, such as fenthion, butoxycycline, clethodim, cyclobutene, cyclathione, cyclohexadione, sethoxydim, chlorpyrifos and trimethoprim-butyl; cyclopropyl isoxazole herbicides, such as isoxathiocarb and isoxathiocarb; dicarboximide herbicides, such as fluphenazine, indolone, fluphenazine, flufenac, fluazifop-butyl and chlorpyrifos; dinitroaniline herbicides such as fluazifop, dimethoate, dimethoate, butyralid, chlorfenapyr, isoprofen, flufenacet, sulfamethoxazole, amoxicillin, pendimethalin, aminopropyralin, ciprofloxacin and trifluralin; dinitrophenol herbicides such as dilofenol, nitropropenol, pendimethalin, dimethoate, trofenapyr, DNOC, nitrobenzene and dimethoate; diphenyl ether herbicides such as fluorinated Lactoflurane; nitrophenyl ether herbicides, such as acifluorfen, beniflox, fenpyroxil, methoxyfenpyroxil, chloranil, aniline, penflufen, fluazifop-butyl, fluorinated nitropropane, fluazifop-butyl, furosulfuron, flunitril, lactofen, nitropropane, trifluoroacetate and oxyfluorfen; dithiocarbamate herbicides, such as dazomet and metamide; halogenated aliphatic herbicides, such as arolac, trichloropropionic acid, dalapon, tetrafluoropropionic acid, hexachloroacetone, iodomethane, methyl bromide, monochloroacetic acid, SMA and TCA; imidazolinone herbicides, such as imazapic, methoxyfenpyrox, imipenem, cypermethrin, cyproconazole and imazapic; inorganic herbicides, such as ammonium sulfamate, borax, calcium chlorate, copper sulfate, ferrous sulfate, azide chlorpyrifos, potassium cyanate, sodium azide, sodium chlorate and sulfuric acid; nitrile herbicides such as bromoxynil, bromoxynil, chlorobenzonil, dichlorvos, iodoxonitrile, iodoxonitrile and bispyribac; organophosphorus herbicides such as methylaminophosphine, cypermethrin, dimethoate, bialaphos, cyprodinil, 2,4-DEP, DMPA, EBEP, cyprodinil, glyphosate and cyprodinil; phenoxy herbicides such as bromophenoxime, chloranil, 2,4-DEB, 2,4-DEP, pentofenac, cypermethrin, cyproconazole, ethamidate, chlorophenoxyethanol and trifloxystrobin; phenoxyacetic acid herbicides such as 4-CPA, 2,4-D, 3,4-DA, MCPA, MCPA-thioethyl and 2,4,5-T ; Phenoxybutyric acid herbicides, such as 4-CPB, 2,4-DB, 3,4-DB, MCPB and 2,4,5-TB; phenoxypropionic acid herbicides, such as oxadiazine, 4-CPP, 2,4-dichlorprop, 2,4-dichlorprop, 3,4-DP, 2,4,5-dichlorprop, 2-methyl-4-chloropropionic acid and 2-methyl-4-chloropropionic acid; aromatic phenoxypropionic acid herbicides, such as clodinafop-butyl, clodinafop-butyl, chlorbutiazepoxide, cyhalofop-butyl, dimethoate, oxadiazine, oxadiazine, thiazolinone, fluazifop-butyl, fluazifop-butyl, fluazifop-butyl, isothiocarb, oxadiazine, oxadiazine, quinazolin, quinazolin, quinazolin and trifloxylic acid; phenylenediamine herbicides, such as dimethoate and aminopropane;Pyrazolyl herbicides, such as pyraclostrobin, pyrazol, sulfamethoxazole, benzylpyrazone, pyroxil and pyraclostrobin; pyrazolylphenyl herbicides, such as isopropylpyraclostrobin and pyraclostrobin; pyridazine herbicides, such as chlorpyrifos, chlorpyrifos and chlorpyrifos; pyridazine herbicides, such as bromopyralid, chlorpyrifos, chlorpyrifos, fluazifop-butyl, fluazifop-butyl, fluazifop-butyl, chlorpyrifos, chlorpyrifos and pyridazine; pyridine herbicides, such as aminopyralid, iodine clomid, diclopyralid, fluthiopyr, fluazifop-butyl, fluazifop-butyl, fluazifop-butyl, chlorpyrifos, thiazolin and triclopyr; pyrimidinediamine herbicides, such as isopropylpyraclostrobin and pyraclostrobin; quaternary ammonium herbicides, such as cypermethrin, diethylcarbamide, diquat, diquat, and fluazifop-butyl chloranil, ... Methoxytriazine herbicides, such as atraton, chlorfenapyr, promethazine, sec-butylton, simaton and terbutryton; methylthiotriazine herbicides, such as azomethin, azidomethin, cyanamide, dichlorvos, isopentyl, chlorfenapyr, promethazine, simetropyr and terbutryn; triazinon herbicides, such as chlorfenapyr, terfenapyr, hexazinone, cymetrazol, metamitron and metribuzin; triazole herbicides, such as cyproconazole, benzophenone, yellow triazole and fluamidazole; triadimenes herbicides, such as amicarbazone, benzathinesulfuron, foramsulfuron, flucarbazone, propoxysulfuron, mesotrione and thiamethoxam-methyl; triazolopyrimidine herbicides, such as chlorfenapyr, bispyribac, bispyribac, fluazifop, sulfamethoxam and sulfamethoxam-methyl. , penoxsulam and formosulfuron; uracil herbicides such as fluazifop-butyl, bromocriptine, fluazifop-butyl, isothiocarb, cypermethrin and terbacil; 3-phenyluracil; urea herbicides such as thiamethoxam, benzylpyruvate, cypermethrin, chloranil, fluazifop-butyl, isothiocarb, chloranil, fluazifop-butyl, isothiocarb, axil, tolbutamide, teroxazolamide and chloranil; phenylurea herbicides such as thiamethoxam, cypermethrin, chlorbromide, ethoxyuron, chlorotoluron, cypermethrin, cypermethrin, oxazolamide, diuron, fenugreek, fluazifop-butyl, fluthiocarb, isoproturon, linuron, mefenam, methylthiamethoxam, pyranuron, bromothiocarb, methoxythiocarb, chloranil, mefenam, chloranil, parafluuron, acypermethrin, cypermethrin, tetrafluuron and thiamethoxam;Pyrimidinylsulfonylurea herbicides such as amidosulfuron-methyl, tetrazosulfuron-methyl, benzylsulfuron-methyl, chlorimuron-methyl, cyprosulfuron-methyl, ethoxysulfuron-methyl, flazasulfuron-methyl, flutosulfuron-methyl, flutosulfuron-methyl, foramsulfuron-methyl, clorosulfuron-methyl acid, pyrazosulfuron-methyl, mesosulfuron-methyl, nicosulfuron-methyl, pyrimidosulfuron-methyl, oxasulfuron-methyl, pyrazosulfuron-methyl acid, sulfosulfuron-methyl, mesosulfuron-methyl acid, sulfosulfuron-methyl and trifloxysulfuron-methyl; triazine sulfonylurea herbicides such as chlorsulfuron-methyl, ethoxysulfuron-methyl, ethametsulfuron-methyl acid, iodosulfuron-methyl, metsulfuron-methyl, prosulfuron-methyl, thifensulfuron-methyl, ethoxysulfuron-methyl, bensulfuron-methyl, flutosulfuron-methyl and trifloxysulfuron-methyl; thiadiazolyl urea herbicides such as buthidiocarb, sulfothiocarb, buthidiocarb, thiofluanid and thiodisulfuron-methyl; and unclassified herbicides Agents such as acrolein, acrolein, chlorpyrifos, oxazolidinone, chloranil, bentazon, bicyclon, buthidone, calcium cyanamide, cypermethrin, fluazifop, oat acid, fluguanamide, clofosinate, cyproconazole, clomazone, CPMF, mixed methylphenol, o-dichlorobenzene, piperidine, endoxan, cypermethrin, fluazifop, fluchloridone, and furofuranoside The herbicidal formulations of the present invention may be further combined with glyphosate or 2,4-D for use in glyphosate-tolerant crops or 2,4-D-tolerant crops. It is generally preferred to use the formulations of the present invention in combination with herbicides that are selective for the crops being treated and that complement the weed spectrum controlled by these compositions at the application rates employed. It is generally further preferred to apply the formulations of the present invention and other complementary herbicides simultaneously, as a combined formulation or as a tank mix. ;

[0270] Without wishing to be bound by any theory, the formulations of the present invention have a suitable biological impact, preferably an improved biological impact, when compared to several prior art formulations.

[0271] As indicated above, in a second aspect, the present invention relates to the use of 1-methoxy-2-propanol for improving the cold stability of a formulation comprising glufosinate or a salt thereof, an alkyl ether sulfate, dipropylene glycol, an alkyl polysaccharide and water.

[0272] It should be understood that all definitions and preferred embodiments as described above should also apply to the usage aspects. Additional preferred embodiments will be described in detail below.

[0273] In a preferred embodiment, the formulation comprises 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-%, preferably 3.0 to 9.0 wt.-%, more preferably 4.0 to 8.0 wt.-%, even more preferably 4.0 to 7.0 wt.-%, still more preferably 4.5 to 6.5 wt.-%, and in particular 5.0 to 6.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0274] In another preferred embodiment, the formulation comprises 4.5 to 10.0 wt.-%, preferably 5.0 to 9.0 wt.-%, more preferably 6.0 to 8.0 wt.-%, in particular 7.0 to 8.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol, based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0275] In a preferred embodiment, the formulation comprises

[0276] 14.0 to 25.0 wt.-% of L-glufosinate or its salts, preferably L-glufosinate ammonium,

[0277] 19.0 to 35.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0278] 4.0 to 8.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0279] 6.0 to 13.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0280] 6.0 to 18.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0281] 14.0 to 25.0 wt.-% water,

[0282] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation, and wherein water is present as the balance of the formulation.

[0283] In a preferred embodiment, the formulation comprises

[0284] 16.0 to 22.0 wt.-% of L-glufosinate or its salts, preferably L-glufosinate ammonium,

[0285] 22.0 to 28.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate,

[0286] 4.5 to 7.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol,

[0287] 7.0 to 12.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol,

[0288] 7.0 to 12.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and

[0289] 16.0 to 22.0 wt.-% water,

[0290] Each is based on the total weight of the formulation, and wherein water is present as the balance of the formulation.

[0291] Preferably, the formulation comprises glufosinate or its salt and the alkyl ether sulfate in a weight ratio of 4:1 to 1:5, preferably 2:1 to 1:3, more preferably 1:1 to 1:2.

[0292] Preferably, the formulation comprises glufosinate or a salt thereof and 1-methoxy-2-propanol in a weight ratio of 10:1 to 1:2, preferably 8:1 to 1:1, more preferably 5:1 to 2:1.

[0293] Preferably, the formulation comprises glufosinate or its salt and dipropylene glycol in a weight ratio of 8:1 to 1:2, preferably 6:1 to 1:1, more preferably 3:1 to 1:1.

[0294] Preferably, the formulation comprises glufosinate or its salt and the alkylpolysaccharide in a weight ratio of 8:1 to 1:2, preferably 6:1 to 1:1, more preferably 4:1 to 1:1.

[0295] Preferably, the formulation comprises glufosinate or its salt and water in a weight ratio of 4:1 to 1:4, preferably 2:1 to 1:2, more preferably 1.5:1 to 1:1.5.

[0296] Preferably, the formulation comprises the alkyl ether sulfate and the alkyl polysaccharide in a weight ratio of 10:1 to 1:2, preferably 5:1 to 1:1, more preferably 4:1 to 2:1.

[0297] As indicated above, in a third aspect, the present invention relates to a method for selectively controlling weeds in an area, the method comprising applying to the field an effective amount of a formulation as defined herein.

[0298] It should be understood that all definitions and preferred embodiments as described above should also apply to the method aspects for selectively controlling weeds. Further preferred embodiments will be described in detail below.

[0299] Preparations as described herein can be used for applying to the field of crop plants to prevent or control weeds. Preparations can be formulated into liquids for spraying in the field. L-phosphinothricin is provided in the composition with an effective amount. As used herein, effective amount means about 10 grams of active ingredients per hectare to about 1,500 grams of active ingredients per hectare, for example, about 50 grams to about 400 grams or about 100 grams to about 350 grams. In certain embodiments, the active ingredient is L-phosphinothricin. For example, the amount of L-glufosinate in the composition can be about 10 grams, about 50 grams, about 100 grams, about 150 grams, about 200 grams, about 250 grams, about 300 grams, about 350 grams, about 400 grams, about 500 grams, about 550 grams, about 600 grams, about 650 grams, about 700 grams, about 750 grams, about 800 grams, about 850 grams, about 900 grams, about 950 grams, about 1,000 grams, about 1,050 grams, about 1,100 grams, about 1,150 grams, about 1,200 grams, about 1,250 grams, about 1,300 grams, about 1,350 grams, about 1,400 grams, about 1,450 grams, or about 1,500 grams of L-glufosinate per hectare.

[0300] The present invention is further illustrated by the following examples.

[0301] Examples

[0302] Material

[0303] As L-GA, a 53.7% aqueous solution of L-glufosinate ammonium was used.

[0304] As race-GA1, a 50% aqueous solution of racemic ammonium glufosinate was used.

[0305] As race-GA2, a 60.2% aqueous solution of racemic ammonium glufosinate was used.

[0306] Dowanol PM / Solvenon PM is pure 1-methoxy-2-propanol.

[0307] SAG 1572 is a defoamer available from Momentive Performance Chemicals.

[0308] Keystone red 33DPG is a dye (5% liquid) available from Killiken & Company.

[0309] Duasyn Acid blue AE 03: a water-soluble dye available from Clariant GmbH. Agnique PG 8105-G is a 60% aqueous solution of alkyl glycoside.

[0310] Genapol LRO Paste is a 70% aqueous solution of sodium alkyl ether sulfate. The sodium alkyl ether sulfate includes sodium lauryl ether sulfate.

[0311] Preparation of formulations

[0312] All components except Genapol LRO Paste were premixed according to the ratios and components specified in Table 1. Genapol LRO Paste was then added to the premix and the resulting mixture was stirred until the solids were completely dissolved and analyzed for density.

[0313] Density was measured according to OECD Test Guideline 109.

[0314] Table 1: (1) represents the total amount of 1-methoxy-2-propanol in the corresponding preparation;

[0315]

[0316] Table 2: (1) represents the total amount of 1-methoxy-2-propanol in the corresponding formulation;

[0317]

[0318]

[0319] Table 3: (1) represents the total amount of 1-methoxy-2-propanol in the corresponding formulation;

[0320]

[0321] Storage stability of preparations

[0322] The formulations in Table 1 were tested for their storage stability at three different temperatures.

[0323] The formulations were each filled in a test glass. After one day at 0°C, -5°C or -10°C, seed crystals of glufosinate ammonium were added to each sample.

[0324] Table 4: "XY% phase separation (f / fl)" means that the upper phase is present at XY% (i.e., phase separation is visible), where the fluid phase is the upper phase and the solid phase is the lower phase; "d" means days; "we" means weeks; "rt" means room temperature; the flash point is determined according to CIPAC, MT 12 - Flash Point, Manual F; https: / / www.cipac.org / index.php / f12 / 364-mt-12-flash-point; and "nd" means not determined.

[0325]

[0326] As can be seen from Table 4, the examples of the present invention all provide good cold stability at -5°C and -10°C. In addition, the phase separation that occurred at -10°C was reversed when the samples were allowed to reach room temperature (after one day at room temperature). Without wishing to be bound by any theory, it is believed that the formulations of the present invention have improved biological impact when compared to Comparative Example 2.

Claims

1. A preparation comprising 8.0 to 50.0 wt.-% of glufosinate-ammonium or its salts, 19.0 to 50.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate, 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol, 4.0 to 15.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol, 4.0 to 20.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% water, Each is based on the total weight of the formulation.

2. The formulation according to claim 1, comprising 12.0 to 50.0 wt.-% of glufosinate-ammonium or its salts, 19.0 to 40.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate, 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol, 4.0 to 15.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol, 4.0 to 20.0 wt.-% of an alkyl polysaccharide, and 20.0 to 50.0 wt.-% water, Each is based on the total weight of the formulation.

3. The preparation according to claim 1 or 2, in, The glufosinate or its salt is present in the formulation in an amount of 24.0 to 48.0 wt.-%, preferably 28.0 to 45.0 wt.-%, more preferably 30.0 to 42.0 wt.-%, and in particular 32.0 to 40.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

4. The preparation according to claim 1 or 2, in, The glufosinate or its salt is L-glufosinate or its salt, which is preferably present in the formulation in an amount of 8.0 to 28.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

5. The formulation according to any one of claims 1, 2 or 4, in, The glufosinate or its salt is L-glufosinate or its salt, which is preferably present in the formulation in an amount of 12.0 to 28.0 wt.-%, preferably 14.0 to 25.0 wt.-%, more preferably 15.0 to 22.0 wt.-%, and in particular 16.0 to 20.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

6. The formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 5, in, The glufosinate or its salt is glufosinate ammonium, preferably L-glufosinate ammonium.

7. The formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 6, in, The alkyl ether sulfate is present in the formulation in an amount of 19.0 to 38.0 wt.-%, preferably 19.5 to 35.0 wt.-%, more preferably 20.0 to 30.0 wt.-% and in particular 22.0 to 28.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

8. The formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 7, in, The 1-methoxy-2-propanol is present in the formulation in an amount of 3.0 to 9.0 wt.-%, preferably 4.0 to 8.0 wt.-%, more preferably 4.0 to 7.0 wt.-% and in particular 5.0 to 6.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

9. The formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 8, in, The dipropylene glycol is present in the formulation in an amount of 5.0 to 13.0 wt.-%, preferably 6.0 to 13.0 wt.-%, more preferably 7.0 to 11.0 wt.-% and in particular 7.0 to 9.5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

10. The formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 9, in, The alkylpolysaccharide is present in the formulation in an amount of 5.0 to 18.0 wt.-%, preferably 6.0 to 15.0 wt.-%, more preferably 6.5 to 13.0 wt.-% and in particular 7.0 to 12.0 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the formulation.

11. The formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising 14.0 to 25.0 wt.-% of L-phosphinothion or its salts, 19.0 to 35.0 wt.-% of alkyl ether sulfate, 4.0 to 8.0 wt.-% of 1-methoxy-2-propanol, 6.0 to 13.0 wt.-% of dipropylene glycol, and 6.0 to 18.0 wt.-% of alkyl polysaccharides, Each is based on the total weight of the formulation, and wherein water is present as the balance of the formulation.

12. The formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 11, The alkyl ether sulfate is represented by the general formula (I): R 1 -O(CH2CH2O)n-SO3M(I), Where R 1 is a saturated or unsaturated C4-C24-alkyl, preferably a C6-C20-alkyl, and in particular a C12-C14-alkyl; n is an average number from 1 to 30, preferably from 1 to 10, more preferably from 1 to 5; and M is monoethanolamine, triethanolammonium, Na+, K+ or NH4+, preferably monoethanolamine or sodium; and in particular wherein the alkyl ether sulfate is sodium lauryl ether sulfate.

13. The formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 12, The alkyl polysaccharide is represented by the general formula (II): R 2 -O-(G) g -H(II), Where R 2 is a saturated or unsaturated C4-C24-alkyl, preferably C6-C20-alkyl, and in particular C8-C10-alkyl or C8-C14-alkyl or C12-C14-alkyl; G is a glucose moiety, which is preferably attached via the C1 and C4 carbon atoms; and g is an average number from 1 to 50, preferably from 5 to 20; and in particular wherein the alkyl polysaccharide is an alkyl glycoside.

14. Use of 1-methoxy-2-propanol for improving the cold stability of a formulation comprising glufosinate-ammonium or a salt thereof, an alkyl ether sulfate, dipropylene glycol, an alkyl polysaccharide and water.

15. The use according to claim 14, in, The formulation comprises 3.0 to 10.0 wt.-% 1-methoxy-2-propanol, based on the total weight of the formulation.

16. A method for selectively controlling weeds in an area, the method comprising applying an effective amount of a formulation according to any one of claims 1 to 13 to a field.

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