Agricultural composition

Abstract

An agricultural composition comprises (A) an auxiliary component, (B) water, and (C) an agrochemical. The auxiliary component (A) comprises a sol and / or a surfactant component, and the surfactant component comprises a first surfactant and / or a second surfactant. The sol includes colloidal silica present in an amount of from about 1 to about 50 wt% SiO2 based on the total weight of the components. The first surfactant includes an alcohol alkoxylate having an average degree of alkoxylation of from 6 to 20 carbon atoms and from about 0.5 to about 12 moles of alkylene oxide. The first surfactant, if present, is present in an amount of from about 1 to about 50 weight percent active. The second surfactant, if present, comprises a linear or branched alkyl glucoside having 6 to 12 carbon atoms and is present in an amount of from about 1 to about 50 weight percent active.

Description

Cross-reference to related applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 535,347, filed August 30, 2023, the disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to agricultural compositions, and more specifically to agricultural compositions comprising auxiliary components, said auxiliary components comprising colloidal silica and / or specific surfactants. Background Technology

[0003] In agricultural applications, rain erosion resistance and retention are important when attempting to maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of pesticide compositions. Both play a crucial role in ensuring that the pesticide composition remains on the target plant and delivers the desired level of pest control.

[0004] Rain washout resistance typically describes the ability of a pesticide composition to withstand rainfall or irrigation after application without being washed away or diluted from the target plant. In other words, even in the presence of water, a rain washout-resistant pesticide composition will adhere to the surface of the target plant and continue to provide effective pest control.

[0005] If a pesticide composition is not resistant to rain washout, it can be easily washed away by rain or irrigation, reducing its effectiveness in controlling pests. This can lead to incomplete pest control and the need for reapplication, increasing the cost and environmental impact of pesticide use.

[0006] Rain-washable pesticide compositions also save farmers time and money because they do not need to be reapplied after each rainfall event. This is especially important for large-scale agricultural operations.

[0007] In addition, adequate rain erosion resistance reduces the risk of pesticide compositions flowing into nearby water bodies, which could have adverse effects on aquatic ecosystems and non-target organisms.

[0008] Retention of a pesticide composition typically describes its ability to adhere to plant surfaces during and after application. Ideally, a pesticide composition should remain on the plant surface to be effective. Typical factors affecting retention include the formulation of the pesticide composition, the surface characteristics of the plant, and environmental conditions. Adding adjuvants that promote adhesion and spread of spray droplets on leaf surfaces can be helpful.

[0009] Pesticides need sufficient contact time with pests to be effective. High retention of pesticide compositions ensures that the composition remains on the plant long enough to contact the target pests, thereby improving control efficacy.

[0010] Proper spreading helps to evenly cover the plant surface, ensuring a larger area is protected by the treatment.

[0011] Rain washout resistance and retention are both related to optimizing the performance of pesticide compositions and minimizing their negative impacts. Pesticide compositions exhibiting good rain washout resistance and retention properties have improved efficacy, reduced reapplication needs, lower costs, and can mitigate potential environmental risks associated with pesticide use.

[0012] Typically, adjuvant compositions are used to improve rainwater runoff resistance and retention. Although many adjuvant compositions are known in the art, there is a need to develop adjuvant compositions that not only improve rainwater runoff resistance and retention but are also sustainable, for example, possessing non-microplastic chemistry and favorable ecotoxicity characteristics.

[0013] Therefore, there are still opportunities for improvement. Furthermore, other desirable features and characteristics of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description of this disclosure and the appended claims, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the background art. Summary of the Invention

[0014] This disclosure provides an agricultural composition comprising (A) an auxiliary component, (B) water, and (C) an agricultural chemical. The (A) auxiliary component comprises a sol and / or a surfactant component, the surfactant component comprising a first surfactant and / or a second surfactant. If used, the sol comprises colloidal silica present in an amount of about 1 to about 50 wt% SiO2 based on the total weight of the components. The first surfactant comprises an alcohol alkoxylate having 6 to 20 carbon atoms and an average degree of alkoxylation of about 0.5 to about 12 moles of epoxy alkoxide. If present, the first surfactant is present in an amount of about 1 to about 50 wt% active ingredient based on the total weight of the auxiliary component. If present, the second surfactant comprises a straight-chain or branched alkyl glucoside having 6 to 12 carbon atoms and is present in an amount of about 1 to about 50 wt% active ingredient based on the total weight of the auxiliary component. Attached Figure Description

[0015] The present disclosure will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote like elements, and Figure 1 This is a graphic representation of the evaluation results of the comparison of Example 1, which includes four different comparative compositions; Figure 2 This is an illustration of the evaluation results of Example 2, which includes the composition of the present invention and the comparative composition; and Figure 3 This is an illustration of the evaluation results of Example 3, which includes six different compositions, including the compositions of the present invention and the comparative compositions; and Figure 4A This is a first illustration of the evaluation results relative to mixtures 1-5 and reference material Example 4; Figure 4B This is a second illustration of the evaluation results of Example 4 relative to mixtures 6-15; Figure 5A It is a bar chart showing the first set of results associated with Example 5; and Figure 5B This is a bar chart showing the second set of results associated with Example 5. Detailed Implementation

[0016] The following specific embodiments are merely exemplary in nature and are not intended to limit the present compositions. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by the foregoing background art or any theory presented in the following specific embodiments.

[0017] The embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to agricultural compositions, silica, surfactants, and methods for their formation. For the sake of brevity, conventional techniques related to the preparation of agricultural compositions, silica sols, surfactants, etc., may not be described in detail herein. Furthermore, the various tasks and process steps described herein can be incorporated into a more comprehensive procedure or process that includes other steps or functions not described in detail herein. In particular, the various steps in the manufacture of agricultural compositions, silica sols, surfactants, etc., are well known; therefore, for the sake of brevity, many conventional steps will only be briefly described herein, or will be omitted entirely without providing well-known process details.

[0018] In this disclosure, the term "about" can describe various values ​​of ±0.1, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10% in various embodiments. Furthermore, it is contemplated in various non-limiting embodiments that all numerical values ​​provided herein, except for actual examples, are approximate values, and their endpoints or specific values ​​are intended to be interpreted as "about" or "approximately" the values ​​stated. It is also contemplated that all isomers and chiral options of each compound described herein are explicitly intended for use herein in various non-limiting embodiments.

[0019] Throughout this disclosure, the term "percentage" is recognized in the art and means the percentage amount of active or actual compound or molecule present, relative to, for example, the total weight of a solvent and a diluted solution of this compound. Some compounds, such as solvents, are not described as a percentage relative to the active ingredient because they are known to be about 100% active. As those skilled in the art will understand, any one or more values ​​described herein can alternatively be described as a percentage of the active ingredient.

[0020] In various embodiments, the term "free of" describes embodiments containing less than about 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, 0.5, or 0.1% by weight (or % by weight of active ingredient), using appropriate weight bases as understood by those skilled in the art. In other embodiments, the term "free of" describes embodiments having zero % by weight of the relevant compound or element.

[0021] The term "consistently composed of" can describe various non-limiting embodiments that do not contain one or more optional compounds described herein and / or do not contain one or more polymers, surfactants, additives, solvents, etc.

[0022] It should be understood that polymer subscripts are often described as average values ​​because polymer synthesis typically produces a distribution of various individual molecules.

[0023] The polymers and compositions disclosed herein may typically comprise, consist of, or consist substantially of the components, elements, and process delineations described herein. The illustrative embodiments disclosed herein may be suitably implemented in the absence of any elements not specifically disclosed herein.

[0024] In various non-limiting embodiments, it is contemplated that, regardless of where the weight % active ingredient is described herein, the volume % active ingredient may be used alternatively, and it is also contemplated for use herein. Agricultural Composition

[0025] This disclosure provides an agricultural composition comprising (A) an auxiliary component, (B) water, and (C) an agricultural chemical. The (A) auxiliary component comprises a sol and / or a first surfactant and / or a second surfactant.

[0026] If used, the sol comprises colloidal silica, present in an amount of about 1 to about 50 wt% SiO2 based on the total weight of the components. The (A) auxiliary component further comprises a first surfactant and / or a second surfactant. The first surfactant comprises an alcohol alkoxylate having 6 to 20 carbon atoms and an average degree of alkoxylation of about 0.5 to about 12 moles of epoxy alkoxide. If present, the first surfactant is present in an amount of about 1 to about 50 wt% active ingredient based on the total weight of the auxiliary components. If present, the second surfactant comprises a straight-chain or branched alkyl glucoside having 6 to 12 carbon atoms and is present in an amount of about 1 to about 50 wt% active ingredient based on the total weight of the auxiliary components. Each is described in more detail below.

[0027] In various embodiments, the agricultural composition comprises (A)-(C).

[0028] Alternatively, the agricultural composition may consist essentially of (A)-(C).

[0029] Alternatively, the agricultural composition may consist of (A)-(C).

[0030] In other embodiments, the agricultural composition comprises (A)-(C) and one or more additives described below.

[0031] In other embodiments, the agricultural composition consists essentially of (A)-(C) and one or more additives described below.

[0032] In other embodiments, the agricultural composition comprises (A)-(C) and one or more additives described below.

[0033] In any of the above embodiments, the agricultural composition may or may not contain water added independently. For example, water may be introduced as part of one or more of (A)-(C). Alternatively, water may be added independently. Or, water may be part of one or more of (A)-(C) and also added independently.

[0034] Furthermore, the term "consistently composed of..." describes that the agricultural composition may be free of, or contain less than 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, or 0.5% by weight of one or more polymers, solvents, active ingredients, or additives that are not (A)-(C). Alternatively, in such embodiments, the composition may be completely free of such polymers, solvents, active ingredients, or additives that are not (A)-(C). Additionally, such embodiments may or may not contain water.

[0035] The agricultural composition may be a liquid, and may be a solution, emulsion, or suspension. Furthermore, the agricultural composition may be diluted or concentrated. In another embodiment, the agricultural composition is an agricultural suspension concentrate.

[0036] The agrochemical composition can be used as a ready-to-use (RTU) composition and / or as a tank-mixed additive or formulated in an in-tank formulation. (A) Auxiliary components

[0037] The composition comprises (A) an auxiliary component. There are no particular limitations on the amount of the auxiliary component relative to the amount used in the composition. In various embodiments, such as in drum-blended applications, the auxiliary component is typically present in amounts of about 0.05 to about 10, about 0.1 to about 10, about 1 to about 10, about 0.05 to about 1, about 0.05 to about 0.1, about 0.1 to about 1, about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10, or about 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, or 1% of active ingredient based on the total weight of the composition. In other embodiments, such as in-can applications, the auxiliary component is typically present in amounts of about 1 to about 50, about 5 to about 50, about 10 to about 45, about 15 to about 40, about 20 to about 35, or about 25 to about 30% of active ingredient based on the total weight of the composition. In various additional non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including those mentioned above and those in between, are hereby explicitly considered for use.

[0038] In other embodiments, there are no particular limitations on the concentration of the adjuvant component in the in-tank pesticide formulation. In various embodiments, the amount, by weight %, can be from about 0.005% to about 30%, typically from about 0.05% to about 20%, and more typically from about 0.5% to about 15%. The pesticide concentration, by weight % of the active ingredient, is typically from about 5% to 65%, typically from 10% to 60%, more typically from 30% to 55%, and even more typically from 40% to 55%. In further embodiments, there are no particular limitations on the concentration of the adjuvant component in the tank-mixed pesticide spray solution. In various embodiments, the amount in the total spray solution (by weight % of the mixture) can be from about 0.001% to about 5%, typically from about 0.01% to about 2%, and more typically from about 0.075% to about 1%. In one embodiment, the adjuvant component is used in the tank mix at a rate of about 0.05% to about 10% by weight of the active ingredient, for example, from about 0.05% to about 2% by weight of the active ingredient. In other embodiments, the usage rate for in-can application is from about 1 to about 50% by weight of the active ingredient, for example from about 5 to about 25% by weight of the active ingredient. In various additional non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including the values ​​mentioned above and values ​​between the values ​​mentioned above, are expressly intended to be used herein. Sol containing colloidal silica

[0039] The auxiliary components may optionally include a sol containing colloidal silica, also known as silica sol. For example, a sol may or may not be used. In this document, the term "sol" generally describes a stable dispersion of colloidal silica (SiO2) particles in a liquid such as water. Silica sol may also be described as a colloidal silica dispersion.

[0040] The sol comprises colloidal silica, such as silica particles. In various embodiments, the terms "silica sol" and "colloidal silica" have the same meaning. In other embodiments, the term "colloidal silica" refers to a dispersion comprising about 1 to about 50% by weight of silica particles dispersed in an aqueous medium. The aqueous medium may contain an organic solvent, but if present, typically less than 10% by weight. If an organic solvent is present, the aqueous medium more typically contains no more than about 5% by weight. When present, the organic solvent is typically water-miscible, for example, selected from one or more C4 ... 1-4 Alkyl alcohols, C 1-4 Aldehydes, C 1-4 Ketones, C 1-4 Carboxylic acids and their C 1-4 Alkyl esters, and combinations thereof. In various additional non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including those described above and those falling between them, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0041] The sol is expected to comprise one or more individual types of colloidal silica. In such embodiments, at least one is of the type described herein, and one or more other types may be of the type described herein or not, or may be a mixture of both. Furthermore, the composition as a whole is expected to comprise one or more separate sols. In such embodiments, at least one is of the type described herein, and one or more other types may be of the type described herein or not, or may be a mixture of both.

[0042] Silane-modified colloidal silica particles can be used as pre-formulated silica sols with a solid content of, for example, 10-80%, and can be provided as silane-modified dispersions or reacted with silanes. In various additional non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges, including those described above and those between them, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0043] Colloidal silica particles can be derived from, for example, precipitated silica, microsilica (silica fume), pyrolytic silica (fumed silica), or silica gel, as well as mixtures thereof.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the colloidal silica particles are negatively charged. Such particles can be prepared from a soluble silicate source, such as an alkali metal silicate solution like water glass or an ammonium silicate solution. The soluble silicate can be ion-exchanged to produce polysilicic acid, and the pH can be increased to achieve the growth of anionic colloidal silica particles. Sols prepared in this way tend to have a very small number of aggregated silica particles compared to, for example, dispersing silica in solid form in a liquid medium.

[0045] The auxiliary component may comprise the sol, which contains colloidal silica in an amount of about 1 to about 50 wt% SiO2 based on the total weight of the auxiliary component. In various embodiments, this amount is about 1 to about 25, about 25 to about 45, about 30 to about 40, about 35 to about 40, about 5 to about 50, about 10 to about 45, about 15 to about 40, about 20 to about 35, or about 25 to about 30 wt% SiO2 based on the total weight of the auxiliary component. In other embodiments, this amount is about 2 to about 24, about 3 to about 23, about 4 to about 22, about 5 to about 21, about 6 to about 20, about 7 to about 19, about 8 to about 18, about 9 to about 17, about 10 to about 16, about 11 to about 15, about 12 to about 14, or about 13 to about 14 wt% SiO2 based on the total weight of the auxiliary component. In some embodiments, the silica content in the sol is, for example, 1 to 80% by weight, typically 5 to 80% by weight, more typically 10 to 80% by weight, for example, even more typically 20 to 80% by weight, even more typically 25 to 70% by weight, and even more typically 30 to 60% by weight. The pH of the silica sol is suitably, for example, 1 to 13, typically 6 to 12, and more typically 7.5 to 11. However, for aluminum-modified silica sol, the pH is suitably, for example, 1 to 12, typically 3.5 to 11. In various additional non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges, including the values ​​described above and those between the values ​​described above, are expressly considered for use herein.

[0046] In silica sol, colloidal silica particles can be appropriately present in an aqueous solvent, and appropriately stabilized with cations such as K+. + Na + Li + NH 4+An aqueous silica sol is formed in the presence of organic cations, primary amines, secondary or tertiary amines, quaternary ammonium compounds, or mixtures thereof. However, colloidal silica dispersed in a partial organic dispersion may also be used, said partial organic dispersion comprising, for example, a water-miscible solvent such as a lower alcohol having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, acetone, or mixtures thereof, wherein the volume of the organic portion may be, for example, 1 to 20% of the total aqueous and organic volume, typically 1 to 10%, more typically 1 to 5% by volume. In various additional non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and numerical ranges, including the values ​​described above and those between the values ​​described above, are expressly considered for use herein.

[0047] The sol itself is not particularly limited and may have a SiO2 content of about 5 to about 60% by weight, depending on the particle size. In various embodiments, this content is about 10 to about 55, about 15 to about 50, about 20 to about 45, about 25 to about 40, or about 30 to about 35% by weight based on the total weight of the sol. The sol may be diluted for use herein such that the colloidal silica is present in an amount of about 1 to about 50% by weight of SiO2 based on the total weight of the auxiliary components. In various embodiments, the sol is not further diluted such that the SiO2 weight percentage of colloidal silica in the sol matches the SiO2 weight percentage of colloidal silica present relative to the total weight of the auxiliary components. In various additional non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and numerical ranges, including the values ​​above and values ​​between the values ​​above, are expressly considered to be used herein.

[0048] Aqueous silica sols can be alkaline, having a pH of about 8.0 to about 11.0, for example, about 8.5 to about 11.0. Other optional components of such sols include the presence of alkali metals, typically one or more of lithium, sodium, and potassium. Typically, sodium is the sole or dominant alkali metal. Alkali metals can be derived from soluble silicate solutions (e.g., water glass), which can be used by conventional methods to produce colloidal silica. Examples of suitable aqueous alkali metal silicates or water glasses that can be used to produce aqueous silica sols include lithium silicate, sodium silicate, and potassium silicate, typically sodium silicate. In various additional non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and numerical ranges, including the values ​​described above and those between the values ​​described above, are expressly considered to be used herein.

[0049] Silica particles are typically amorphous nanoparticles and most typically have a particle size of about 2 to about 170 nm. In various embodiments, colloidal silica particles typically have an average particle size of about 2 to about 100 nm or about 3 to about 75 nm. In further embodiments, the particle size is about 4 to about 50 nm, about 5 to about 30 nm, or about 7 to about 25 nm. In other embodiments, the particle size is about 5 to about 25, about 10 to about 20, about 10 to about 15, etc. In various additional non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and numerical ranges, including the values ​​mentioned above and values ​​between the values ​​mentioned above, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0050] In some embodiments, the colloidal silica particles used suitably have an average particle size range typically of 2 to 150 nm, typically 2 to 100 nm, more typically 3 to 50 nm, even more typically 4 to 40 nm, still more typically 4 to 15 nm, and even more typically 5 to 12 nm. Suitably, the colloidal silica particles may have, for example, 20 to 1500 nm, typically 50 to 900 nm, more typically 70 to 700 nm, and even more typically 100 to 600 nm. 2 / g, more typically 150 to 500, and even more typically 200 to 400 m 2 The specific surface area / g was measured by the Sears titration method (GWSears; Anal. Chem., 1956, 28(12) pp1981-1983). In various additional non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including the values ​​mentioned above and those in between, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0051] The particle size can be calculated from the titrated specific surface area using the method described in "The Chemistry of Silica", Iler, K. Ralph, page 465, John Wiley & Sons (1979). This is based on a silica particle density of 2.2 g / cm³. -3 Assuming that all particles are of the same size, have smooth surfaces, and are spherical, the particle size (PD) can be calculated according to Equation 1: PD (nm) = 2720 / surface area (m²) 2 g -1 Equation 1 Other methods for measuring average particle size include ES-DMA (electrospray differential mobility analysis), CLS (centrifugal liquid analysis), SEM (scanning electron microscopy), and TEM (transmission electron microscopy), all of which are applicable here. Particle size can be determined using one or more methods such as ASTM D5861, ISO 13320:2009, ISO 13320:2020, etc. Furthermore, particle size can be further defined as Dv10, Dv50, Dv90, Dn10, Dn50, Dn90, Dv95, Dv99, Dn95, Dn99, etc. It is also anticipated that one or more particle size measurements may fall outside the aforementioned ranges. Furthermore, particle size can be determined using any equipment known in the art, such as the Malvern Mastersizer 3000. Regarding software version, type of light scattering model applied, real and imaginary parts of the complex refractive index if Mie theory is applied, refractive index, sampling procedure, amount and power of ultrasound, etc., if not specified in the aforementioned standard procedures, can be chosen by those skilled in the art.

[0052] Colloidal silica particles can have a narrow particle size distribution, i.e., a low relative standard deviation of particle size. The relative standard deviation of particle size distribution is the ratio of the standard deviation of the particle size distribution to the number-average particle size. The relative standard deviation of particle size distribution can be, for example, less than 60% by quantity, typically less than 30% by quantity, and more typically less than 15% by quantity. In various additional non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including the values ​​described above and those between the values ​​described above, are expressly considered for use herein.

[0053] In other embodiments, such as for unmodified colloidal silica, the colloidal silica has an S value of about 20% to about 95%, for example, about 30% to about 90% or about 50% to about 85%. The S value is measured and calculated as described by Iler & Dalton (Iler & Dalton; J. Phys. Chem. 60(1956), 955-957). The S value indicates the degree of agglomeration or microgel formation, with a lower S value indicating a higher degree of agglomeration. In various additional non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including those described above and those between the described values, are expressly considered for use herein.

[0054] In other embodiments, the silica sol may have an S value of, for example, from 20 to 100, typically from 30 to 90, and more typically from 60 to 90. The S value typically depends on the silica content, viscosity, and density of the colloidal silica particles. A high S value indicates a low microgel content. The S value represents, for example, the amount of SiO2 present in the dispersed phase of the silica sol, by weight percentage. The degree of microgelation can be controlled during the manufacturing process, as further described, for example, in US 5,368,833. Commercially available examples of suitable sols include Nouryon's Levasil™ series. In various additional non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including those described above and those between them, are expressly considered for use herein.

[0055] In various embodiments, colloidal silica is produced by particle growth from soluble silicate or polysilicic acid solutions and is not prepared by generating a dispersion from silica nanoparticles in solid form. For example, in some embodiments, the colloidal silica is not derived from solid-form silica, such as amorphous fumed silica, silica fume, and precipitated silica. Optionally, the colloidal silica is not derived from crystalline silica, such as microcrystalline quartz or nanocrystalline quartz, which have the additional disadvantage of potential health risks. Soluble silicate-derived colloidal silica tends to have fewer silica particle agglomerates compared to dispersions prepared from solid-form silica. This is because, typically, solid-form silica nanoparticles tend to exist as agglomerates of primary nanoparticles, and it is generally not possible to disperse such silica into colloidal silica composed primarily of discrete primary particles, as larger agglomerates tend to remain. Therefore, silica particles in such colloidal silica tend to settle (precipitate) relatively quickly. In contrast, colloidal silica produced by particle growth from soluble silicate or polysilicic acid solutions does not contain such large silica agglomerates. They tend to be stable and typically do not show significant gelation or precipitation over several months (typically more than 12 months).

[0056] In various embodiments, colloidal silica is prepared by converting soluble alkali metal silicates into polysilicic acid (typically pH from about 1 to about 3) through ion exchange or acid treatment, and raising the pH to about 7 or higher, typically from about 8 to about 11, for example from about 9 to about 11, using an alkaline alkali metal salt such as an alkali metal hydroxide or alkali metal silicate. The alkali metal content in the starting silica sol can be from about 0.1 to about 5.0% by weight, expressed as alkali metal oxides. In some embodiments, this content is from about 0.2 to about 3.0% by weight. In other embodiments, the silica concentration in the colloidal silica is from about 1 to about 40% by weight, for example from about 2 to about 35% by weight or from about 3 to about 30% by weight. As used herein, silica concentration is generally expressed as SiO2. The typical minimum concentration is about 5% by weight, and therefore the most typical range is from about 5 to about 50% by weight, more typically from about 5 to about 40% by weight, for example from about 5 to about 35% by weight or from about 5 to about 30% by weight. In various additional non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including those mentioned above and those in between, are hereby explicitly considered for use.

[0057] In various implementation schemes, the typical surface area of ​​colloidal silica particles is from about 30 to about 1000 m². 2 g -1 For example, approximately 40 to approximately 700 m 2 g -1 Such as approximately 60 to approximately 550 m 2 g -1 More typically 90 to 400 m 2 g -1 And most typically, it is about 120 to about 250 m 2 g -1 The specific surface area of ​​colloidal silica particles in silica sol can be calculated by NaOH titration according to Sears' method (Sears; Anal. Chem., 1956, 28(12), 1981-1983). In various additional non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including the values ​​mentioned above and those in between, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0058] The density of silica sol depends at least in part on the silica content and is typically from about 1.01 to about 1.45 g cm⁻¹. -3 And typically from about 1.01 to about 1.30 g cm⁻¹ -3 For example, a density of 1.2 g / cm³ -3 The silica sol typically has a SiO2 silica content of 30% by weight and a density of 1.4 g cm⁻¹.-3 The silica sol typically has a SiO2 silica content of 50% by weight. Density can be determined using ASTM D4052-18a. In various additional non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges, including those above and those between them, are expressly considered to be used herein.

[0059] The viscosity of silica sol is typically less than about 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, 10, or 5 cP when measured at about 20°C. The viscosity of silica sol (including those described herein) can be measured using a conventional rotational viscometer. One method that can be used is ASTM D4016-14. In various additional non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including those above and those between them, are expressly considered to be used herein.

[0060] In aqueous systems, colloidal silica particles can be dispersed in the presence of stabilizing cations, which can be selected from alkali metals (e.g., K). + Na + Li + ), ammonium (NH4) + Organic cations, quaternary amino groups, tertiary amino groups, secondary amino groups, and primary amino groups, or mixtures thereof. Typically, they are selected from alkali metals and ammonium. Examples of sols that can be used as starting aqueous silica sols include silica sols sold by Nouryon under the names Levasil™ or Bindzil™.

[0061] Aluminum-modified silica sol, sometimes also called aluminate or alumina-modified silica sol, can be produced by adding an appropriate amount of aluminate ions Al(OH)4 to conventional unmodified silica sol under stirring. - To prepare it. The aluminate ion solution is typically a diluted sodium or potassium aluminate solution. The silica particles typically have about 0.05 to about 2, and typically about 0.1 to about 2 Al atoms per nm. 2Surface area of ​​silica particles. Alumina-modified silica particles can contain intercalated or exchanged aluminate ions, creating aluminosilicate sites with a fixed negative surface charge. Compared to conventional unmodified silica sol (whose negative surface charge decreases with decreasing pH, typically to about 2, the zero-charge point of unmodified silica sol), aluminum-modified silica particles can maintain their high negative surface charge down to about 3 pH. Therefore, at pH below about 8, the surface charge of unmodified silica particles is typically lower than that of aluminum-modified silica sol. The pH of aluminum-modified silica sol can be adjusted, typically by using ion exchange resins, typically to a pH range of about 3 to about 11, and typically about 4 to about 10. The aluminum-modified silica sol can then be concentrated to obtain a silica content of about 1 to about 60% by weight, typically about 5% to about 50% by weight.

[0062] The aluminum-modified silica particles may have an Al₂O₃ content of about 0.05 to about 3, typically about 0.1 to about 2, and most typically about 0.1 to about 1% by weight. The diameter of the aluminum-modified silica particles is typically about 2 to about 200 nm, typically about 3 nm to about 100 nm. Methods for preparing aluminum-modified silica sols are further described, for example, in "The Chemistry of Silica", Iler, K. Ralph, pp. 407-409, John Wiley & Sons (1979) and US 5,368,833, which are incorporated herein by reference in various non-limiting embodiments. In various embodiments, the colloidal silica may include one or more of the following properties:

[0063] In the table above, colloidal silica may contain approximately 0.15% by weight of added aluminate in the form of Al2O3 as part of the total product. In various additional non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges, including those above and those between them, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0064] Colloidal silica can be modified or unmodified. If modified, the modified colloidal silica can be modified with at least one organosilane moiety comprising silicon atoms bonded to the carbon atoms of an organic group. In other words, in the modified colloidal silica, at least a portion of the surface silanol groups can be replaced by one or more chemically bonded organosilane groups. The modified colloidal silica can be any known in the art. In various embodiments, the modified colloidal silica can be as described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 982,130 or 14 / 397,424, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety in various non-limiting embodiments.

[0065] Chemically bonded organosilane groups may comprise silicon atoms linked to a -R group. One to three -R groups may be present on the silicon atom of the organosilane moiety. Typically, at most two -R groups are present, and in some embodiments only one is present. If more than one -R group is present, they may be the same as or different from each other. In various embodiments, the -R group may be alkyl, alkenyl, aryl, etc., and has about 1 to about 20, about 2 to about 19, about 3 to about 18, about 4 to about 17, about 5 to about 16, about 6 to about 15, about 7 to about 14, about 8 to about 13, about 9 to about 12, or about 10 to about 11 carbon atoms. The group may be straight-chain, branched, or cyclic. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and numerical ranges, including the values ​​described above and those between the values ​​described above, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0066] The silane compounds that can be mixed with colloidal silica particles can be, for example, selected from organosilanes, such as monoorganosilanes and oligomeric organosilanes containing 2 to 10 silicon atoms. Typically, the silane compounds include at least one hydrolyzable group, such as a halogen or alkoxy group, such that they can undergo a condensation reaction with silanol groups on the surface of the silica particles. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and numerical ranges, including the values ​​described above and those between the values ​​described above, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0067] Typical organosilanes include those of the general formula R x SiX 4-xIn these embodiments, x is an integer from 0 to 3, R is an organic residue bonded to a silicon atom via a C-Si bond, and X is a halogen or alkoxy group. In an embodiment, the silane is a monoorganosilane where x is 1. When x is greater than 1, each R can be the same or different. Typically, each R has 1 to 20 carbon atoms and includes reactive groups such as epoxy groups or carbon-carbon double bonds. Typical examples of reactive groups of R include epoxy, glycidoxy, glycidoxypropyl, vinyl, and γ-methacryloyloxypropyl. Furthermore, X is typically chlorine or C. 1-4 Alkoxy groups, and x is typically 2 or 3, more typically 3. Mixtures of two or more organosilanes may also be used. Oligomeric silanes formed by the condensation of two or more organosilane molecules may also be used. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including those described above and those between them, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0068] Specific examples of silane compounds include tri-(trimethoxy)silane, octyltriethoxysilane, methyltriethoxysilane, methyltrimethoxysilane; isocyanate silanes such as tri-[3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl]isocyanurate; γ-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane, bis-(3-[triethoxysilyl]propyl)polysulfide, β-(3,4-epoxycyclohexyl)-ethyltrimethoxysilane; silanes containing epoxy groups (epoxysilanes); silanes containing glycidoxy and / or glycidoxypropyl groups such as γ-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane, γ-glycidoxypropylmethyldiethoxysilane, (3-glycidoxypropyl)trimethoxysilane, (3-glycidoxypropyl)hexyltrimethoxysilane, β-(3,4-epoxycyclohexyl)-ethyltriethoxysilane; and vinyl-containing silanes. Examples include vinyltriethoxysilane, vinyltrimethoxysilane, vinyltri-(2-methoxyethoxy)silane, vinylmethyldimethoxysilane, vinyltriisopropoxysilane; γ-methacryloyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane, γ-methacryloyloxypropyltriisopropoxysilane, γ-methacryloyloxypropyltriethoxysilane, octyltrimethoxysilane, ethyltrimethoxysilane, propyltriethoxysilane, phenyltrimethoxysilane, 3-mercaptopropyltriethoxysilane, cyclohexyltrimethoxysilane, cyclohexyltriethoxysilane, dimethyldimethoxysilane, 3-chloropropyltriethoxysilane, 3-methacryloyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane, isobutyltriethoxysilane, trimethylethoxysilane, phenyldimethylethoxysilane, hexamethyldisiloxane, trimethylchlorosilane, hexamethyldisilazane, and mixtures thereof. US 4,927,749 (which is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its various non-limiting embodiments) discloses other suitable silanes that may be used herein. Silane modification can be performed by mixing a silane compound with colloidal silica particles.

[0069] According to one embodiment, silane and colloidal silica particles are mixed at a silane to silica weight ratio, which ranges, for example, from 0.05 to 1.5, typically from 0.1 to 0.8, and more typically from 0.15 to 0.5. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges, including the values ​​described above and those between them, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0070] Alternatively, the ratio of silane to colloidal silica can also be specified in terms of molecular weight per surface area. In this case, the amount of silane added to the colloidal silica particles can suitably be, for example, 0.1 to 6, typically 0.3 to 3, and more typically 1 to 2 silane molecules per nm. 2Surface area of ​​colloidal silica particles. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including those above and those in between, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0071] According to one embodiment, at least 1% of the silanol surface groups on the colloidal silica particles are capable of binding or attaching to the silane groups of the silane compound, for example, at least 5%, typically at least 10%, more typically at least 30%, and even more typically at least 50% are bound or attached to the silane groups. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including the values ​​mentioned above and values ​​between the values ​​mentioned above, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0072] The silane compound can be diluted prior to mixing with colloidal silica particles, for example, by dilution with water to form a premix of silane and water, suitably in a weight ratio of silane to water of, for example, 1:8 to 8:1, typically 3:1 to 1:3, and more typically 1.5:1 to 1:1.5. The resulting silane-water solution is substantially clear and stable and readily mixable with the colloidal silica particles. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including those described above and those between them, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0073] The mixing of silane and silica can be carried out at pH values ​​of 1 to 13, typically 6 to 12, more typically 7.5 to 11, and even more typically 9 to 10.5. In all non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges, including those above and those between them, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the mixing of silane and colloidal silica particles can be carried out continuously, for example at temperatures of 20 to 95°C, typically 50 to 75°C, and more typically 60 to 70°C. The silane can be slowly added to the silica particles at a controlled rate under vigorous stirring, a rate suitably, for example, 0.01 to 100, typically 0.1 to 10, more typically 0.5 to 5, and even more typically 1 to 2 silane molecules per nm. 2 The surface area of ​​colloidal silica (on the colloidal silica particles) and per hour. The addition of silane can continue for any suitable time, depending on the addition rate, the amount of silane to be added, and the desired degree of silanization. However, the addition of silane can continue for up to 5 hours, for example, up to 2 hours, until a suitable amount of silane has been added. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including the values ​​above and those between the values ​​above, are expressly considered for use herein.

[0075] After adding silane to colloidal silica particles, mixing can continue for 1 second to 30 minutes, typically 1 to 10 minutes after stopping the addition of silane.

[0076] In addition to silanized colloidal silica particles, the dispersion may also contain, at least to a certain extent, unsilanized colloidal silica particles, depending on factors such as the size of the silica particles, the weight ratio of silane to silica, the type of silane compounds mixed, and the reaction conditions. Suitably, at least 40% by weight of the colloidal silica particles are silanized, typically at least 65% by weight, more typically at least 90% by weight, even more typically at least 95% by weight, and still more typically at least 99% by weight. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges, including the values ​​described above and those between the values ​​described above, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0077] In addition to silanes in the form of silane groups or silane derivatives bound to or attached to the surface of silica particles, the dispersion may also contain at least a portion of freely dispersed unbound silane compounds. Suitably, at least 40% by weight, typically at least 60% by weight, more typically at least 75% by weight, even more typically at least 90% by weight, and even more typically at least 95% by weight of the silane compounds bound to or attached to the surface of the silica particles. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including those described above and those between the described values, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0078] Pre-formulated silane-modified silica sols, such as Nouryon's Levasil™ CC series, can also be used. A typical example is Levasil™ CC 401, a glycidyloxypropylsilane-modified silica sol with a solids content of 40% by weight and an average particle size of 12 nm. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including those above and those in between, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0079] In the embodiments, when the R group of the organosilane contains a reactive group, the reaction conditions used to modify colloidal silica may cause a change in that reactive group. For example, when the reactive group is or contains an epoxy group, hydrolysis may occur to form the corresponding ortho-diol group. Thus, the epoxy group becomes a diol group, and the glycidyl oxyalkyl group becomes 3-(1,2-propanediol)-alkoxy (e.g., 3-(1,2-propanediol)-propoxy). Furthermore, the epoxy silyl group can be hydrolyzed to form the corresponding ortho-diol silyl group, for example, in the presence of water, in the presence of an acid or base catalyst, etc. Therefore, colloidal silica may also contain ortho-diol silyl group equivalents of the epoxy silyl group. First surfactant

[0080] The auxiliary component may or may not contain a first surfactant. One or more first surfactants may be used. If used, the surfactant is or contains an alcohol alkoxylate having 6 to 20 carbon atoms. In various embodiments, the number of carbon atoms is 6 to 20, 7 to 19, 6 to 18, 8 to 18, 9 to 17, 10 to 16, 11 to 15, 12 to 14, or 13 to 14. In other embodiments, the number of carbon atoms is 6 to 14, 6 to 12, 6 to 10, 6 to 8, 8 to 12, 8 to 10, 10 to 12, etc. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including those listed above and those between the listed values, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0081] The first surfactant typically has an average degree of alkoxylation of about 0.5 to about 12 moles of epoxide. The degree of alkoxylation may refer to ethoxylation, propoxylation, butoxylation, and / or combinations thereof. For example, the average degree of ethoxylation, propoxylation, and / or butoxylation may each independently be about 0.5 to about 12. In various embodiments, this range is about 1 to about 12, about 2 to about 11, about 3 to about 10, about 4 to about 9, about 5 to about 8, or about 6 to about 7. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and numerical ranges, including the values ​​described above and values ​​between the values ​​described above, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0082] In various embodiments, the first surfactant is a C9-11 alcohol ethoxylate, which is linear or branched, and is ethoxylated with about 5 to about 6, about 4 to about 7, or about 3 to about 8 moles of ethylene oxide. In other embodiments, the first surfactant is a linear or branched C10 alcohol, which is ethoxylated with about 7 to about 8, about 6 to about 7, or about 6 to about 8 moles of ethylene oxide. In other embodiments, the first surfactant is a linear or branched C16-C18 alcohol, which is alkoxylated with about 4 to about 5, about 4 to about 6, or about 4.5 to about 5.5 moles of ethylene oxide, and about 7 to about 9, about 6 to about 8, or about 7 to about 8 moles of propylene oxide. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including the values ​​mentioned above and values ​​between the values ​​mentioned above, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0083] Furthermore, if used, the first surfactant is present in an amount of about 1 to about 50% by weight of active ingredient based on the total weight of the auxiliary components. In various embodiments, this amount is about 5 to about 45, about 10 to about 40, about 15 to about 35, about 20 to about 30, or about 25 to about 30% by weight of active ingredient based on the total weight of the auxiliary components. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and numerical ranges, including the values ​​mentioned above and values ​​between the values ​​mentioned above, are expressly intended to be used herein. Second surfactant

[0084] The auxiliary component may or may not contain a second surfactant. In fact, the auxiliary component contains a first and / or a second surfactant. Therefore, the first surfactant can be used without the second surfactant, or it can be used in combination with the second surfactant. Alternatively, the second surfactant can be used without the first surfactant. One or more second surfactants can be used.

[0085] If used, the second surfactant is or comprises a straight-chain or branched alkyl glucoside having 6 to 12 carbon atoms. It is also contemplated that the second surfactant may be an alkyl polyglucoside. In one embodiment, the second surfactant is straight-chain. In another embodiment, the second surfactant is branched. In various embodiments, the second surfactant has 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12 carbon atoms. The second surfactant is present in an amount of about 1 to about 50% by weight of active ingredient based on the total weight of the auxiliary components. In various embodiments, this amount is about 5 to about 45, about 10 to about 40, about 15 to about 35, about 20 to about 30, or about 25 to about 30% by weight of active ingredient based on the total weight of the auxiliary components. In one embodiment, the alkyl glucoside has 8 carbon atoms. In another embodiment, the alkyl glucoside is 2-ethylhexyl glucoside. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and numerical ranges, including the values ​​described above and those between the values ​​described above, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0086] In various embodiments, the first surfactant and the second surfactant are present in a molar ratio of about 0.95:1.05 to about 1.05:0.95. In other embodiments, this ratio is about 0.5:1 to about 2:1, or about 0.75:1 to about 1.75:1, or about 1:1, or about 1.25:1 to about 2:1, or about 1.5:1 to about 2:1, etc. In further embodiments, the first surfactant is not used. In other embodiments, the second surfactant is not used. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including the values ​​above and values ​​between the values ​​above, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0087] In various embodiments, the auxiliary component is, comprises, is substantially composed of, or is composed of a sol. In various embodiments, the auxiliary component is, comprises, is substantially composed of, or is composed of a first surfactant. In various embodiments, the auxiliary component is, comprises, is substantially composed of, or is composed of a second surfactant. In various embodiments, the auxiliary component is, comprises, is substantially composed of, or is composed of a sol and a first surfactant. In various embodiments, the auxiliary component is, comprises, is substantially composed of, or is composed of a sol and a second surfactant. In various embodiments, the auxiliary component is, comprises, is substantially composed of, or is composed of a first surfactant and a second surfactant. The term "substantially composed of" can describe embodiments that do not contain other surfactants that are not the first or second surfactant, other optional surfactants (whether described herein or known in the art), additives, polymers, solvents, water, other silicon compounds that are not sols, organosilicon compounds, etc. (B) Water

[0088] The agrochemical composition also comprises water. The agrochemical composition may or may not contain water added independently. For example, water may be introduced as part of one or more of (A)-(C). Alternatively, water may be added independently of any of (A)-(C). Alternatively, water may be part of one or more of (A)-(C) and also added independently. Water is not limited to any particular amount. In various embodiments, depending on the application, such as ready-to-use (RTU), in-tank, or drum mix, water is present in an amount from about 1 to about 99.99%. In various embodiments, water is present in an amount that balances the weights of (A) and (C), for example, A+B+C equals about 100% by weight of the total weight of the agrochemical composition. In various embodiments, water is present in amounts of about 1 to about 99.9%, about 1 to about 99%, about 5 to about 95%, about 10 to about 90%, about 15 to about 85%, about 20 to about 80%, about 25 to about 75%, about 30 to about 70%, about 35 to about 65%, about 40 to about 60%, about 45 to about 55%, or about 45 to about 50% by weight based on the total weight of the agrochemical composition. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including the values ​​mentioned above and values ​​between the values ​​mentioned above, are expressly intended to be used herein. (C) Agricultural chemicals

[0089] Agricultural chemicals are not particularly limited in themselves and can be any known in the art. As used herein, an agricultural chemical is a chemical used in agricultural formulations. Non-limiting examples of agricultural chemicals include fertilizers, micronutrients, activators, adjuvants or synergists, drift control agents, emulsifiers, sedimentation aids, water conditioners, wetting agents, dispersants, compatibilizers, suspending agents, pesticides such as herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides, and growth inhibitors. When an agricultural chemical is described herein without specifying an antiion, its acid and salt forms are intended throughout the specification. In one embodiment, the agricultural chemical is a pesticide. In another embodiment, the agricultural chemical is a fertilizer. In a further embodiment, the agricultural chemical is selected from pesticides, fertilizers, and combinations thereof. In yet another embodiment, the agricultural chemical is selected from herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, and combinations thereof.

[0090] Suitable herbicides include, but are not limited to: acifluorfen, aclofen, alachlor, ametryn, amidosulfuron, aminopyralid, amitrol, anilofos, asulam, atrazine, azafenidin, azimsulfuron, benzolin, benfluralin, and benzul. Herbicides including furon-methyl, bentazone, bifenox, binalafos, bispyribac-sodium, bromacil, bromoxynil, butachlor, butroxidim, cafenstrole, carbetamide, carfentrazone-ethyl, chloridazon, and chlorimuron-ethyl. Chlorobromuron, chlorotoluron, chlorsulfuron, cinidon-ethyl, cinosulfuron, clethodim, cromazine, clopyralid, cloransulam-methyl, chlorsulfuron, cyanazine, cycloate, cyclosulfamuron, thiamethoxam ( Cycoxydim, dalapon, desmedipham, dicamba, dichlobenil, dichlormid, diclosulam, diflufenican, dimefuron, dimepipeate, dimethachlor, dimethenamid, diquat, diuron, esprocarb, ethalfluralinethametsulfuron-methyl, ethofumesate, ethoxysulfuron, fentrazamide, flazasulfuron, florasulam, fluchloralin, flufenacet, flumetsulam, flumioxazin, fluometuron, flupyrsulfuron-methyl, flurflufenazon ( Flurochloridone, fluroxypyr, flurtamone, fomesafen, foramsulfuron, glufosinate, hexazinone, imazamethabenz-M, imazamox, mazapic, imazapyr, imazaquin, imazethapyr, imazosulfuron, iodine-methyl osulfuron, ioxynil, isoproturon, isoxaben, isoflutole, lactofen, lenacil, linuron, mefenacet, mesosulfuron-methyl, mesotrione, metamitron, metazachlor, methabenzthiazuron, metobromuron Metolachlor, Metosulam, Metoxuron, Metribuzin, Metsulfuron-methyl, Molinate, MSMA, Napropamide, Nicosulfuron, Norflurazon, Oryzalin, Oxadiargyl, Oxadiazon, Oxasulfuron, OxyfluorfenParaquat, pendimethalin, phenmedipham, picloram, pretilachlor, profoxydim, prometryn, propanil, propisochlor, propoxycarbazone, propyzamide, prosulfocarb, prosulfuron, pyraflufen-ethyl, pyrazosulfuron, pyridate, pyrithiobac, quinclorac, quinmerac, rimsulfuron, sethoxydim, simazine S-metolachlor, sulcotrione, sulfentrazone, sulfosulfuron, tebuthiuron, tepraloxydim, terbuthylazine, terbutryn, thifensulfuron-methyl, thiobencarb, tralkoxydim, triallate, triasulfuron, tribenuron-methyl, trifloxysulfuron, trifluralin, triflusulfuron-methyl, tritosulfuron, and their mixtures and combinations. In various embodiments, the herbicide is selected from atrazine, dicamba, glufosinate, paraquat, 2,4-D, and mixtures and combinations thereof. In various embodiments, the herbicide is selected from 2,4-D, atrazine, dicamba, and glufosinate, and mixtures and combinations thereof. In various embodiments, the herbicide is glufosinate. When the herbicide is acidic, it can be used in acidic form, although the herbicide is usually present in the form of at least one salt selected from amines, lithium, sodium, ammonium, or potassium. In various embodiments, the agrochemical is selected from diuron, azoxystrobin, captan, atrazine,Tebuconazol. In other embodiments, as those skilled in the art will recognize, the agrochemical is a solid, water-insoluble or slightly soluble pesticide.

[0091] Examples of suitable fungicides include, but are not limited to: acibenzolar-S-methyl, aldimorph, amisulbrom, anilazine, azaconazole, azoxystrobin, benalaxyl, benodanil, benomyl, benthiavalicarb, binapacryl, biphenyl, bitertanol, and blastifen. cidin-S), boscalid, bromuconazole, bupirimate, captafol, captan, carbendazim, carboxin, carpropamid, chlorothalonil, chlozolinate, copper, cyazofamid, cyflufenamid, cymoxanil, cycloconazole proconazole, cyprodinil, dichlofluanid, diclocymet, diclomezine, dicloran, diethofencarb, difenoconazole, diflumetorim, dimethirimol, dimethomorph, dimoxystrobin, diniconazole, dinocap, dithiazolinone (Ithianon), dodemorph, dodine, edifenphos, enestrobin, epoxiconazole, etaconazole, ethaboxam, ethirimol, etridiazole, famoxadone, fenamidone, fenarimol, fenbuconazole, fenfuram, fenhexamidCyanobacterium nitrate (fenoxanil), fenpiclonil, fenpropidin, fenpropimorph, fentinacetate, fentin chloride, fentin (a fungicide). Hydroxide), ferbam, ferimzone, fluazinam, fludioxonil, flumorph, fluopicolide, fluoxastrobin, fluquinconazole, flusilazole, flusulfamide, flutolanil, flutriafol, folpet, fosetyl-Al, fthalide, fuberidazole, furalaxyl, furamepyr, guazatine, hexaconazole, hymexazole, imazalil, imibenconazole, iminoctadine, iodocarb, ipconazole, isopropanol Iprobenfos (IBP), iprodione, iprovalicarb, isoprothiolane, isothiazine, kasugamycin, kresoxim-methyl, laminarin, mancozeb, mandipropamid, maneb, biomaterials, mepanipyrim, propoxyzine Mepronil, meptyldinocap, metalaxyl, metalaxyl-M, metconazole, methasulfocarb, metiram, metominostrobin, benomyl, mineral oil, organic oil, myclobutanil, naftifine, nuarimol, octhilinoneOfuron, Origin, Orysastrobin, Oxadixyl, Oxolinic Acid, Oxpoconazole, Oxycarboxin, Oxytetracycline, Pefurazoate, Penconazole, Pencycuron, Penthiopyrad, Phophorous acid) and picoxystrobin, piperalin, polyoxin, potassium bicarbonate, probenazole, prochloraz, procymidone, propamocarb, propiconazole, propineb, proquinazid, prothiocarb, prothioconazole, pyraclostrobin, pyrazophos, pyribencarb, pyributicarb, pyrifenox, pyrimethanil, pyroquilon, quinoxyfen, quintozene (PCNB), salt, silicon Thiamethoxam, simeconazole, spiroxamine, streptomycin, sulfur, tebuconazole, teclofthalam, tecnazene (TCNB), terbinafine, tetraconazole, thiabendazole, thifluzamide, thiophanate, thiophanate-methyl, thiram, tiadinil, tolclofosmethyl, tolylfluanid, triadimefon, triadimenol, triazoxide, tricyclazoleTridmorph, trifloxystrobin, triflumizole, triforine, triticonazole, validamycin, valiphenal, vinclozolin, zineb, ziram, and zoxamide, as well as mixtures and combinations thereof.

[0092] Examples of suitable insecticides include, but are not limited to: kerosene or borax, herbal medicines or natural organic compounds (nicotine), pyrethrin, strychnine and rotenone, chlorinated hydrocarbons (DDT, lindane, chlordane), organophosphates (malathion and diazinon), carbamates (carbaryl and propoxur), fumigants (naphthalene) and benzene (mothballs), synthetic pyrethroids (bifenthrin) and mixtures and combinations thereof.

[0093] In other embodiments, other agrochemicals may be used, including, for example, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), dicamba, and glufosinate. Each may be used alone or in combination with one or more others. In other embodiments, the agrochemical is selected from diuron, captan, atrazine, and combinations thereof. Each may be used alone or in combination with one or more others.

[0094] In various implementation schemes, the agricultural chemicals are selected from herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, acaricides, biological agents, fertilizers, and combinations thereof. Alternatively, the agricultural chemicals are selected from fungicides, insecticides, acaricides, biological agents, fertilizers, and combinations thereof.

[0095] Various other embodiments of this disclosure relate to formulations comprising one of the aforementioned agrochemicals and one or more other active ingredients. These other active ingredients may include those commonly known in the art, including, for example, synergistic herbicides, fungicides, and plant health agents, as described elsewhere herein. Agrochemical compositions according to this disclosure may optionally contain other additives, such as ammonium sulfate, potassium sulfate, potassium chloride, sodium sulfate, urea, glycerol, glycols, polyethylene glycols, or mixtures thereof.

[0096] In other embodiments, the agrochemical may be or include biopesticides, biostimulants, biofertilizers, inoculants, plant growth regulators, safeners, or combinations thereof.

[0097] In various embodiments, depending on the application, such as ready-to-use (RTU), in-tank, or drum mix, the agrochemical is present in an amount from about 1 to about 99.99%. In various embodiments, the agrochemical is present in an amount equal to the weight of (A) and (B), for example, A+B+C equals about 100% by weight of the total weight of the agrochemical composition. In various embodiments, the agrochemical is present in an amount of about 1 to about 99.9%, about 1 to about 99%, about 5 to about 95%, about 10 to about 90%, about 15 to about 85%, about 20 to about 80%, about 25 to about 75%, about 30 to about 70%, about 35 to about 65%, about 40 to about 60%, about 45 to about 55%, or about 45 to about 50% by weight of active ingredient based on the total weight of the agrochemical composition. In various embodiments, in ready-to-use or spray tank applications, typical agrochemical concentrations are from about 0.05 to about 50 g / L, for example, from about 0.1 to about 50 g / L. In all non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including those mentioned above and those in between, are hereby explicitly considered for use.

[0098] If a second agrochemical, such as a second surfactant, is used, it is typically used in amounts of about 5 to about 90, about 10 to about 85, about 15 to about 80, about 20 to about 75, about 25 to about 70, about 30 to about 65, about 35 to about 60, about 40 to about 55, or about 45 to about 50% by weight of the active ingredient, based on the total weight percentage of the agrochemical composition. In other embodiments, the weight ratio of the agrochemical to the second surfactant is typically about 1:1 to about 10:1, about 1:1 to about 6:1, or about 2:1 to about 6:1. In various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including the values ​​above and those between the values ​​above, are expressly intended to be used herein.

[0099] In other embodiments, the concentration of the agrochemical is typically at least about 180, 200, 220, 240, 260, 280, or 300 grams of active ingredient per liter ("g ae / L"), for example at least about 360 g ae / L, or for example at least about 390 g ae / L. In typical compositions, the concentration of the agrochemical is not less than 400 g ae / L or about 420 g ae / L, and in particularly typical compositions not less than about 480 g ae / L, about 500 g ae / L, about 540 g ae / L, about 580 g ae / L, about 600 g ae / L, or even about 620 g ae / L, for example about 480 to about 540 g ae / L, or about 480 to about 600 g ae / L, or higher. Therefore, in some embodiments, the concentration of the agrochemical is about 300 g ae / L to about 600 g ae / L, about 420 g ae / L to about 600 g ae / L, or about 480 g ae / L to about 540 g ae / L. In various compositions, the concentration of the agrochemical can be about 480 g ae / L to about 620 g ae / L, for example, about 480 g ae / L to about 600 g ae / L, or about 540 g ae / L to about 620 g ae / L. In other embodiments, the concentration of the agrochemical is further described as a ready-to-use formulation prepared by diluting the agrochemical with an appropriate amount of water. The concentration of the agrochemical can be about 1 g ae / L to about 50 g ae / L. In other embodiments, the concentration of the agrochemical is more typically about 5 g ae / L to about 20 g ae / L. In all non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and ranges of values, including those mentioned above and those in between, are hereby explicitly considered for use.

[0100] In other embodiments, the agrochemical (ae) is in a weight ratio of about 1:1 to about 100:1, about 1 to 1.1:50, or about 1:1 to about 50:1. In various embodiments, the weight ratio is about 1:1 to about 30:1 or about 1:1 to about 20:1. In other embodiments, the weight ratio is about 1:1 to about 30:1 or about 2:1 to about 25:1 (e.g., typically about 2.5:1 to about 20:1, about 1:1 to about 15:1, about 2:1 to about 10:1, about 3:1 to about 15:1, or about 3.5:1 to about 8:1). In other embodiments, the weight ratio is about 1:1 to about 15:1, more typically about 1:1 to about 10:1, and even more typically about 1:1 to about 8:1 (e.g., about 1:1 to about 6:1, or about 1:1 to about 4:1). In other embodiments, the weight ratio is from about 3:1 to about 5:1, or from about 3:1 to about 4:1. In other embodiments, the concentration of the agrochemical is in the range of about 360 to about 600 g ae / L, and the weight ratio (wt.% ae) of the agrochemical to the auxiliary component is from about 2:1 to about 25:1 (e.g., from about 2.5:1 to about 20:1, or from about 3.5:1 to about 8:1). In all the various non-limiting embodiments, all numerical values ​​(integers and decimals) and numerical ranges, including the values ​​above and values ​​between the values ​​above, are expressly intended to be used herein. additive

[0101] In addition to (A)-(C), the agricultural composition may contain or not contain one or more additives, which may include, but are not limited to, additional surfactants, defoamers, diluents, compatibilizers, biocides, thickeners, drift control agents, dyes, fragrances and chelating agents.

[0102] In addition to the first and / or second surfactants described above, auxiliary surfactants may be present or absent in the agrochemical composition and may be anionic, nonionic, and / or amphoteric, or a combination thereof.

[0103] If an additional surfactant is used, the additional surfactant can be of any type. Non-limiting examples of typical cationic surfactants are alkoxylated alkylamines and their quaternary ammonium derivatives, alkoxylated etheramines and their quaternary ammonium derivatives, alkoxylated alkylamines and amine oxides, alkoxylated alkyl etheramines and amine oxides, alkylamidopropylamines and amine oxides, alkyltrimethylammonium chloride and alkyl (typically C6 to C4) surfactants. 10 Dimethylamidopropylamine.

[0104] Non-limiting examples of typical anionic surfactants are alkyl sulfates, alkyl ether sulfates, alkyl sulfonates, alkyl sulfosuccinates, alkoxylated phosphates, alkyl α-olefin sulfonates, alkyl N-methyl taurates, fatty acid hydroxyethyl sulfonates, and alkyl ether carboxylates.

[0105] Non-limiting examples of typical nonionic surfactants are alkoxylated mono- and / or diglycerides, dehydrated sorbitan esters and their alkoxylated derivatives, sorbitan esters and their alkoxylated derivatives, fatty acid esters, castor oil alkoxylates, alcohol alkoxylates, alkanolamides, alkanolamide alkoxylates, and alkyl polyglycosides.

[0106] Non-limiting examples of typical amphoteric surfactants are alkyl betaine, alkylamidopropyl betaine, alkyl amphoteric acetate, alkyl amphoteric diacetate, alkyl amphoteric carboxylate, alkyl amphoteric propionate, alkyl amphoteric dipropionate, alkylamidoamine carboxylate, alkyl amphoteric hydroxypropyl sulfonate, alkyl sulfobetaine, alkylamidopropyl hydroxysulfobetaine, alkyl dihydroxyethyl glycinate, and alkyl aminopropionate. application

[0107] There are no particular restrictions on the application of agricultural compositions. In various embodiments, the application is a pesticide, herbicide, fungicide, or a combination thereof.

[0108] In various embodiments, this disclosure provides a method for controlling unwanted vegetation, comprising applying an effective amount of an agricultural composition to the unwanted vegetation. Alternatively, this may be described as a method for controlling unwanted insects or unwanted fungi. In these cases, the method includes the step of applying an effective amount of an agricultural composition to the target.

[0109] Agricultural chemical compositions should be applied to targets, such as plant leaves, at a rate sufficient to produce the desired effect. The application rate is typically expressed as the amount of active ingredient per unit area of ​​treated land, such as grams of active ingredient per hectare (g ae / ha). Appropriate effective application or spraying rates will vary depending on the specific composition and active ingredient concentration, desired effect, plant species being treated, weather, and other factors. The composition of “desired effect” varies according to the standards and practices of those who research, develop, market, and use agricultural chemical products. For example, a commercially effective rate is typically defined as the amount of active ingredient applied per unit area that consistently and reliably achieves at least 70%, and more typically at least 85%, control of pests such as plant species (measured by growth reduction or mortality).

[0110] Typical compositions disclosed herein provide herbicidal efficacy comparable to commercially available standard formulations of agrochemicals. As used herein, “herbicidal efficacy” means any observable control over plant growth, which may include one or more of the following actions: (1) killing, (2) inhibiting growth, reproduction or proliferation, and (3) removing, destroying or otherwise reducing the occurrence and activity of harmful organisms such as plants.

[0111] Selecting a biologically effective application rate for a particular agrochemical composition is within the skill of an average agricultural scientist. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that specific plant conditions, weather and growing conditions, as well as the specific formulation chosen, will affect the degree of biological effectiveness achieved by implementing this disclosure. Therefore, a useful application rate can depend on all of the aforementioned conditions. A wealth of information is known regarding generally appropriate application rates for agrochemical compositions. Over two decades of agrochemical use and published research on such use provide a wealth of information from which those skilled in the art can select an agrochemical application rate that effectively achieves the intended objectives.

[0112] Various application methods can be used, including general spraying, targeted spraying, or wiping leaves with the agricultural composition. Alternatively, application methods may include drone application, smart sprayer application, etc. Depending on the desired level of control, plant age and species, weather conditions, and other factors, the application rate of the agricultural chemical is typically from about 0.1 to about 10 kg a.e. / ha for herbicidal efficacy, and typically from about 0.25 to about 2.5 kg ae / ha, but higher or lower amounts may be applied. Methods for forming the composition

[0113] Agricultural compositions can be formed using any method known in the art. For example, a composition can be formed by combining (A), (B), and (C) along with any additives or water, in a batch or continuous manner, for example using a mechanical mixer or any other suitable container or equipment to generate the necessary amount of agitation or circulation to thoroughly mix the components. The order of addition can be any combination of any components, whether all or some. In one embodiment, water is added to a mixing container, followed by the agricultural chemical and the first and / or second surfactant. In some embodiments, the first and second surfactants can be added as a premix. An auxiliary surfactant can be added separately, before or after the addition of the first and / or second surfactant. Methods for killing weeds, pests and / or preventing diseases

[0114] This disclosure also provides methods for killing or controlling weeds or other undesirable plants, methods for killing pests, and methods for controlling diseases. These methods include spraying or otherwise applying (e.g., weeding) an effective amount of an agricultural composition to a target, such as the leaves of the plant to be treated, by any known method. In some embodiments, the composition is packaged in a portable container suitable for a user to carry and is equipped with a manual device that allows the composition to be released from the container in the form of a spray onto the target area, such as by a tractor, drone, airplane, robot, farmer, etc.

[0115] This composition can be used to kill or control the growth of various harmful organisms, including insects, fungi, and plants. The plants may include, but are not limited to, velvetleaf (…). Abutilontheophrasti ), Amaranth ( Amaranthusspp .), genus *Fleuronia* ( Borreria spp .), European rapeseed, Canadian rapeseed, Indian mustard, etc. (Brassica genus) Brassicaspp .)), Commelina genus ( Commelina spp .), Geraniaceae ( Erodium spp .), Sunflower genus ( Helianthusspp .), genus Ipomoea ( Ipomoea spp .), Kochia scoparia ( Kochiascoparia ), Malva genus ( Malva spp .), wild buckwheat, Polygonum ( Polygonum spp .), purslane (purslane genus ( Portulaca spp .), *Phyllostachys* genus ( Salsola spp .), Milk thistle ( Sida spp .), Wild mustard ( Sinapisarvensis ) and the genus Xanthium ( Xanthium spp Other plant species that can be killed or controlled include, but are not limited to: wild oats ( Avenafatua ), Carpet grass (Carpet grass genus ( Axonopus spp .)), dryland brome ( Bromustectorum ), Crataegus pinnatifida ( Digitaria spp .), barnyard grass ( Echinochloacrus - galli ), goosegrass ( Eleusineindica ), multiflora ryegrass ( Lolium multiflorum ), rice Oryzasativa ), Dew Seed Grass ( Ottochloanodosa Bahia grass ( Paspalumnotatum ), genus *Gnaphalium* Phalaris spp .), genus *Setaria* ( Setaria spp .),wheat( Triticumaestivum ) and corn ( Zeamays Other plant species that can be killed or controlled include, but are not limited to, Artemisia genus (…). Artemisia spp .), Milkweed ( Asclepias spp Canada thistle (.) Cirsiumarvense Field bindweed ( Convolvulusarvensis ) and Kudzu ( Pueraria spp Other plant species that can be killed or controlled include, but are not limited to, *Hymenopterus* (*Hymenopterus* genus). Brachiaria spp .), Bermuda grass ( Cynodondactylon ), wheatgrass ( Elymusrepens ), White Grass ( Imperatacylindrica ), perennial ryegrass ( Loliumperenne ), millet ( Panicummaximum ), burrs ( Paspalumdilatatum ), Reed ( Phragmites spp .), Stone Grass ( Sorghumhalepense ) and Cattail genus ( Typha spp Other plant species that can be killed or controlled include, but are not limited to, the genus *Equisetum* (*Hypericum*). Equisetum spp .), fern ( Pteridiumaquilinum ), Blackberry ( Rubus spp .) and vitex ( Ulexeuropaeus ). Example Example 1: Comparison

[0116] The first group of four different compositions was formed and evaluated to determine their resistance to rain washout. None of these compositions contained silica.

[0117] The first composition (Ref) contains water and 5% by weight of blue pigment.

[0118] The second composition (Surf A) comprises a straight-chain C9-11 alcohol ethoxylate, 5,5EO.

[0119] The third composition (Surf B) comprises a branched C10 alcohol ethoxylate, 7EO.

[0120] The fourth composition (Surf C) contains C16-C18 alcohol alkoxylates, 4,8EO,8PO.

[0121] After formation, each of the four compositions was diluted in water to approximately 0.4% by weight of active ingredient, and a 5% blue pigment suspension was added. The mixture was deposited dropwise (50 µl per drop) onto the parafilm in a 4x4 matrix and dried overnight at room temperature. Subsequently, the compositions on the parafilm were washed for 10 seconds by pouring 400 g of artificial rainwater (water) from a height of 5.5 cm. Illustrations of the dried deposits before and after washing are shown below. Figure 1 As shown.

[0122] These results indicate that the selected surfactant exhibits excellent performance in wetting and spreading water droplets on hydrophobic surfaces. However, the deposits are easily washed away and are therefore insufficient to provide any rain resistance. Example 2: Auxiliary Components

[0123] A second group of six different compositions was also formed.

[0124] The fifth composition (Ref) contains water. This is a comparative composition.

[0125] The sixth composition (first SiO2 + Surf A) comprises colloidal silica (4 wt% solids) and linear C9-11 alcohol ethoxylate 5.5 EO (4 wt% active ingredient). This colloidal silica is negatively charged silica with Na+. + As a counter ion, it has a pH of 8-11 and a surface area of ​​approximately 80-200 m². 2 / g. Therefore, the composition contains a sol and a first surfactant, but not a second surfactant.

[0126] The seventh composition (second SiO2 + Surf A) comprises colloidal silica (4 wt% solids) and linear C9-11 alcohol ethoxylate 5.5 EO (4 wt% active ingredient). This colloidal silica is negatively charged silica with NH4+. 3+ As a counter ion, it has a pH of 8-11 and a surface area of ​​approximately 80-200 m². 2 / g. Therefore, the composition contains a sol and a first surfactant, but not a second surfactant.

[0127] After formation, each composition was diluted in water to 0.04% by weight of surfactant active ingredient and combined with a 5% blue pigment suspension to form a mixture. The mixture was deposited onto a sealing film in eighteen drops (50 µl per drop) and dried overnight at room temperature. Subsequently, the composition on the sealing film was washed for 30 seconds by pouring 800 g of artificial rainwater from a height of 5.5 cm. Illustrations of the dried deposits before and after washing are shown below. Figure 2 As shown. Example 3: Auxiliary Components

[0128] A third group of six different compositions was also formed.

[0129] The eighth composition (Ref) contains water. This is a comparative composition.

[0130] The ninth composition (Third SiO2 + Surf A) comprises colloidal silica (4 wt% solids) and linear C9-11 alcohol ethoxylate 5,5 EO (4 wt% active ingredient). This colloidal silica is aluminum-modified silica with a specific surface area of ​​145-185 m². 2 The composition contains a sol and a first surfactant, but not a second surfactant.

[0131] The tenth composition (third SiO2 + Surf B) comprises the same colloidal silica (4 wt% solids) and branched C10 alcohol ethoxylate 7EO (4 wt% active ingredient) as described above. Therefore, this composition contains a sol and a first surfactant, but not a second surfactant.

[0132] The eleventh composition (third SiO2 + Surf C) comprises the same colloidal silica (4 wt% solids) and branched C16-C18 alcohol alkoxylates 4,8EO,8PO (4 wt% active ingredient) as described above. Therefore, this composition comprises a sol and a first surfactant, but does not contain a second surfactant.

[0133] The twelfth composition (the third SiO2 + AG) comprises the same colloidal silica (4 wt% solids) and 2-ethylhexyl glucoside (4 wt% active ingredient) as described above. Therefore, this composition contains a sol and a second surfactant, but not the first surfactant.

[0134] The thirteenth composition (third SiO2) contains only the aforementioned silicon dioxide and no surfactants. This is a comparative composition.

[0135] After formation, each composition was diluted in water to 0.04 wt% surfactant active ingredient / solid and combined with a 5% blue pigment suspension to form a mixture. The mixture was deposited onto a sealing film in eighteen drops (50 µl per drop) and dried overnight at room temperature. Subsequently, the composition on the sealing film was washed for 30 seconds by pouring 800 g of artificial rainwater from a height of 5.5 cm. Illustrations of the dried deposits before and after washing are shown below. Figure 3 As shown.

[0136] These results demonstrate that by combining colloidal silica with a surfactant, the spreading / wetting properties of the surfactant remain unaffected, while the deposit is better protected from water washing. This is unexpected, as the tendency for the surfactant to be washed away is significantly reduced by adding silica particles to a surfactant that is typically quite water-soluble. This is superior to methods known in the art, as high molecular weight film-forming polymers or oils are usually required to achieve water resistance, whereas no polymer or oil is used in this case. Example 4: Auxiliary Components

[0137] A fourth composition was also formed, as shown below. Surfactant 1 is a straight-chain C9-11 alcohol ethoxylate 5,5EO. Surfactant 2 is 2-ethylhexyl glucoside. SiO2 is aluminum-modified colloidal silica as described above. The balance of each mixture is water.

[0138]

[0139] After formation, each of the fifteen mixtures was diluted in water to a 2% by weight mixture and combined with a 5% blue pigment suspension to form a final mixture. The mixture was deposited dropwise (50 µl per drop) onto the sealing film and dried overnight at room temperature. Subsequently, as described above, the composition on the sealing film was washed with 800 g of artificial rainwater for 30 seconds. Illustrations of the dried deposits before and after washing are shown below. Figure 4A and 4B As shown in the figure. These results indicate that water resistance varies significantly between compositions. Water resistance depends on the presence of silica particles in the composition. Properties can be further adjusted by adjusting the proportion of surfactants. Example 4

[0140] Various samples of the aforementioned mixtures 1–15 were also evaluated to determine their stability. More specifically, the samples were subjected to accelerated storage tests at 54°C for 2 and 4 weeks. The physical properties of the mixtures were evaluated after the storage period. The results are shown in the table below.

[0141]

[0142] These results indicate that the ratio between silica and surfactant affects formulation stability. Example 5: Field Trial

[0143] Field trials were conducted to verify the agronomic efficiency of adding agricultural compositions to commercial fungicides such as UNIZEB GOLD or STATUS in controlling Asian rust (Phakopsora pachyrhizi Sydow) in soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill).

[0144] The fungicide can be applied alone (i.e., examples of agricultural chemicals disclosed herein) or in combination with different amounts of different adjuvants. Two commercially available adjuvants are compared.

[0145] Ref 1 is based on orange peel oil and proprietary surfactants.

[0146] Ref 2 is an organosilicone spreader.

[0147] Comp 1 contains 5.5% EO (15% by weight active ingredient) of straight-chain C9-11 alcohol ethoxylate, 2-ethylhexyl glucoside (14.95% by weight active ingredient) and third SiO2 (15% by weight solid), with the balance being water.

[0148] The application rate of Unizeb Gold is 2 kg / ha. Each kg of Unizeb Gold contains 750 g of mancozeb.

[0149] Status is sprayed at a rate of 1 liter per hectare. Each liter of Status contains 588 g of copper oxychloride.

[0150] In all treatments, three fungicide applications were performed, 14 and 11 days apart, with the first spray applied 38 days after crop emergence, immediately following the previous evaluation—at which time uniform infection in the test plots was confirmed, with an average infection rate of 5.00%. Disease control was evaluated in all treatments. Evaluation events were recorded, for example, as 14DA1 (14 days after the first application). Treatment efficacy against Asian soybean rust was calculated as a percentage of effectiveness based on the infection level of untreated plants. Results are shown in... Figure 5A and 5B middle.

[0151] These data indicate that, in the aforementioned field trials, Comp-1 significantly enhanced the efficacy of exemplary commercial fungicide formulations (mancozeb WP and copper oxychloride SC) across various disease control monitoring events. Comp-1 also demonstrated superior performance in enhancing the fungicidal efficacy of fungicide formulations compared to typical commercial adjuvant products.

[0152] While at least one exemplary embodiment has been given in the foregoing detailed description, it should be understood that numerous variations exist. It should also be understood that the exemplary embodiment or embodiments described herein are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration in any way. Rather, the foregoing detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient roadmap for implementing the exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that various changes can be made to the function and arrangement of the elements described in the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. An agricultural composition comprising: A. An auxiliary component, said auxiliary component comprising: The sol comprises colloidal silica, which is present in an amount of about 1 to about 50% by weight of SiO2 based on the total weight of the auxiliary components; and / or The surfactant component comprises: A first surfactant comprising an alcohol alkoxylate having an average degree of alkoxylation of 6 to 20 carbon atoms and about 0.5 to about 12 moles of epoxide, and present in an amount of about 1 to about 50% by weight of active ingredient based on the total weight of the auxiliary components; and / or The second surfactant comprises a straight-chain or branched alkyl glucoside having 6 to 12 carbon atoms and is present in an amount of about 1 to about 50% by weight of active ingredient based on the total weight of the auxiliary components. B. Water; and C. Agricultural chemicals.

2. The agricultural composition according to claim 1, wherein the alcohol alkoxylate is an alcohol ethoxylate.

3. The agricultural composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the alcohol alkoxylate has 16 to 18 carbon atoms.

4. The agricultural composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the alcohol alkoxylate has an average degree of alkoxylation of about 0.5 to about 8 moles of epoxide.

5. The agricultural composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first surfactant is present in an amount of about 1 to about 20% by weight of active ingredient based on the total weight of the auxiliary components.

6. The agricultural composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second surfactant is present in an amount of about 1 to about 20% by weight of active ingredient based on the total weight of the auxiliary components.

7. The agricultural composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the colloidal silica has a negative surface charge.

8. The agricultural composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the colloidal silica has an Al2O3 content of about 0.03 to about 3% by weight based on the total weight of the colloidal silica.

9. The agricultural composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the colloidal silica is present in an amount of about 1 to about 20% by weight of SiO2 based on the total weight of the auxiliary components.

10. The agricultural composition of claim 1, wherein the first surfactant is present in an amount of about 1 to about 20% by weight of active ingredient based on the total weight of the auxiliary components, and the second surfactant is absent.

11. The agricultural composition according to claim 1, wherein the straight-chain alcohol ethoxylate is a C9-C11 alcohol having an average degree of ethoxylation of about 3.5 to about 8.

12. The agricultural composition according to claim 1, wherein the straight-chain alcohol ethoxylate is a C10 alcohol having an average degree of ethoxylation of about 5 to about 8.

13. The agricultural composition of claim 1, wherein the second surfactant is present in an amount of about 3 to about 20% by weight of active ingredient based on the total weight of the auxiliary components.

14. The agricultural composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the alkyl glucoside has 8 carbon atoms.

15. The agricultural composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the alkyl glucoside is 2-ethylhexyl glucoside.

16. The agricultural composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first surfactant and the second surfactant are present in a molar ratio of about 0.5:1 to about 2:

1.

17. The agricultural composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first surfactant comprises two or more alcohol alkoxylates.

18. The agricultural composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second surfactant comprises two or more alkyl glucosides.

19. The agricultural composition according to claim 1, wherein: The colloidal silica has a negative surface charge and contains aluminum modification thereon; The first surfactant is a straight-chain C9-11 alcohol ethoxylate containing about 5 to about 6 moles of ethylene oxide; and The second surfactant is 2-ethylhexyl glucoside.

20. The agricultural composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the agricultural chemical is selected from herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, acaricides, biological agents, fertilizers, and combinations thereof.

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