Apparatus, method and composition for enhancing coverage and retention of a liquid solution sprayed on a plant surface

Abstract

Systems, methods, and apparatuses for enhancing coverage and retention of a liquid solution sprayed onto a surface of a plant are presented herein. More specifically, in certain embodiments, systems, methods, and apparatuses for distributing an adjuvant within a spray droplet to concentrate the adjuvant within a partial volume (e.g., a "coating volume") near the surface of the droplet, with a lower concentration of the adjuvant in an inner bulk volume including the center of the droplet, are presented herein.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 601,819, filed November 22, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates generally to agricultural systems and methods. More specifically, in some embodiments, the invention relates to apparatus, methods, and compositions for enhancing the coverage and retention of liquid solutions sprayed onto plant surfaces. Background Technology

[0004] Pesticide pollution is linked to acute diseases such as cancer, neurological disorders, and birth defects. Furthermore, excessive pesticide use can adversely affect soil chemistry, leading to the death of non-target organisms and disrupting the soil microbiome responsible for replenishing plant nutrients. In addition, pesticides represent a major economic burden for farmers, accounting for approximately 30% of the total production cost of crops such as cotton. Therefore, it is crucial to improve the efficiency of pesticide application to reduce pesticide usage while achieving effective pest control.

[0005] Agricultural chemicals such as pesticides, foliar fertilizers, and nutrient formulations are typically applied to plants as liquid solutions using pressure-controlled spray systems. Foliar solutions (foliar fertilizers) and pesticide solutions are applied directly to the surface of the plant (e.g., the surface of leaves, roots, fruits, vegetables, or flowers), rather than being placed into the soil. In such agricultural chemical spraying systems, pressurized pesticide and / or foliar solutions are forced through nozzles at a specific flow rate to achieve a spray pattern that covers the leaf or other plant surface with a large number of droplets. For pesticide sprays to be effective in controlling pests and for foliar solutions to be effective as fertilizers, it is crucial to achieve a high degree of liquid coverage (e.g., droplets, films, and / or pools of liquid) and liquid retention on the target plant surface.

[0006] Spray adjuvants have been developed to increase the ability of spray solutions to adhere to the surface of target plants and reduce the amount lost through evaporation or washing due to environmental conditions such as rain or irrigation. However, the role of adjuvants in droplet behavior is not fully understood. Using too little adjuvant may not enhance droplet adhesion, while using too much adjuvant may interfere with the active ingredients in the spray solution and lead to phytotoxicity.

[0007] There is a need for improved technology that enhances the liquid coverage and retention of solutions sprayed onto the surface of target plants without causing phytotoxic damage. Summary of the Invention

[0008] This document presents systems, methods, and apparatuses for enhancing the coverage and retention of liquid solutions sprayed onto plant surfaces. More specifically, in some embodiments, systems, methods, and apparatuses are provided for distributing adjuvants within spray droplets to concentrate the adjuvants within a portion of a volume (e.g., a “cloaking volume)” near the droplet surface, wherein a lower adjuvant concentration is present in the volume within the body, including the droplet center. In some embodiments, the cloaking volume has a value in the range of about 0.1V to about 0.5V (e.g., about 0.15V to about 0.3V, such as about 0.2V), where V is the total droplet volume. In some embodiments, the cloaking volume has an adjuvant concentration in the range of about 2.5C to about 8C (e.g., about 3C to about 6C, such as about 4C), where 1C is the total amount of adjuvant (e.g., mass) divided by the total droplet volume.

[0009] This article further presents specific non-oil adjuvant solutions that work well with this improved coating technique.

[0010] Furthermore, this paper presents nozzles and spray systems particularly suitable for implementing improved coating techniques. In some embodiments, the nozzle includes (i) a primary fluid inlet and channel for guiding a first stream (e.g., water or an aqueous solution, such as an agrochemical solution, or pesticide solution) to a first nozzle outlet and (ii) a secondary fluid inlet and channel for guiding a second stream (e.g., an adjuvant solution) to a second nozzle outlet, the first and second nozzle outlets being positioned relative to each other (e.g., at corresponding angles) to guide their respective streams to meet [e.g., for coating droplets of an aqueous solution (e.g., water, agrochemical solution, or pesticide solution) with an adjuvant solution]. In some embodiments, the nozzle includes a deflector plate (e.g., located at or near the first nozzle outlet) to deflect fluid from the first stream exiting the first nozzle outlet (e.g., to fan the first stream). In some embodiments, the nozzle includes a deflector plate (e.g., located at or near the second nozzle outlet) to deflect fluid from the second stream exiting the second nozzle outlet (e.g., to fan the second stream). In some embodiments, the second nozzle outlet includes a plurality of orifices (e.g., a plurality of orifices positioned on a common plane, such that the second nozzle outlet includes a plurality of orifices positioned at an acute angle (e.g., less than 90 degrees, such as between 20 and 80 degrees, such as between 30 and 70 degrees) relative to the plane of the first nozzle outlet). In some embodiments, the nozzle has in Figure 4 Or Figures 7 to 23 The configuration described in any of them.

[0011] Various coating methods, compositions, and apparatuses are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2023 / 0135222, filed October 27, 2022 and published May 4, 2023, entitled "Compositions, Articles, Devices, and Methods Related to Droplets Comprising a Cloaking Fluid," filed by Varanasi et al. on October 27, 2022 and published thereon, the entire text of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0012] Improvements to these coating methods, compositions, and apparatus are presented below.

[0013] In one aspect, the present invention relates to a method of applying a solution to a plant surface, the method comprising contacting a first liquid with an adjuvant (e.g., a second liquid containing the adjuvant, such as an adjuvant solution) to distribute the adjuvant in a spray droplet of the first liquid so as to concentrate the adjuvant in a portion of a volume (“coating volume”) near the surface of the droplet, wherein a lower adjuvant concentration is present in the volume within the body including the center of the droplet, wherein the contact between the first liquid and the adjuvant occurs prior to the contact between the droplet and the plant surface, and wherein the coating volume contains the concentrated adjuvant for at least a period of time until the droplet impacts the plant surface.

[0014] In some embodiments, the coating volume has a value in the range of about 0.05V to about 0.5V (e.g., about 0.1V to about 0.5V, such as about 0.15V to about 0.3V, such as about 0.2V coating volume), where V is the total droplet volume.

[0015] In some embodiments, the encapsulation volume has an adjuvant concentration in the range of about 1.5C to about 15C (e.g., about 2.5C to about 8C, or about 3C to about 6C, or about 4C), where 1C is the total amount of adjuvant (e.g., mass) divided by the total droplet volume.

[0016] In some implementations, the coating volume contains a concentrated adjuvant for at least a period of time until the droplets impact the plant surface and bounce back.

[0017] In some implementations, the droplets bounce back without completely leaving the plant surface.

[0018] In some embodiments, the encapsulation volume comprises a concentrated adjuvant for a duration of at least 20 ms, at least 50 ms, at least 100 ms, at least 150 ms, at least 200 ms, at least 250 ms, at least 500 ms, at least 1 s, at least 2 s, or longer.

[0019] In some embodiments, the adjuvant comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of: nonionic surfactants (NIS), surfactants plus nitrogen sources, silicone surfactants, high surfactant oil concentrates (HSOC), crop oil concentrates (COC), vegetable oil concentrates, modified vegetable oils (MVO or MSO), nitrogen sources, depositing (drift control) and / or retaining agents with or without ammonium sulfate and / or defoamers, compatibilizers, buffers and / or acidifiers, water conditioners, base blends, adhesive-spreading agents and / or extenders, adjuvants plus foliar fertilizers, antifoaming agents, foam markers, flavoring agents, and can cleaners and / or neutralizers (e.g., in Compendium of Herbicide Adjuvants, 2016, No. 1). 13 (The text of one or more adjuvants listed in the above categories in this edition is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety).

[0020] In some embodiments, the first liquid is an agricultural chemical solution (e.g., an aqueous solution containing agricultural chemicals), wherein the agricultural chemicals include pesticides (e.g., insecticides, herbicides, rodenticides, and / or fungicides).

[0021] In some embodiments, the agrochemical contains one or more members selected from the group consisting of: glyphosate, imidacloprid, permethrin, pyrethroids, acetamiprid, organophosphates, acaricides, fipronil, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, acephate, sulfur, cyhalothrin, copper sulfate, molluscicides, chlorpyrifos, malathion, carbaryl, boric acid, cypermethrin, bifenthrin, diazinon, and chlordane.

[0022] In some implementations, the first liquid is an agricultural chemical solution, wherein the agricultural chemicals include fertilizers.

[0023] In some implementations, the adjuvant is a non-oil adjuvant (e.g., a non-oil surfactant).

[0024] In some embodiments, contacting the first liquid and the adjuvant includes using a nozzle, wherein the nozzle includes (i) a primary fluid inlet and channel for directing a first flow containing the first liquid to a first nozzle outlet and (ii) a secondary fluid inlet and channel for directing a second flow containing the adjuvant to a second nozzle outlet, the first nozzle outlet and the second nozzle outlet being positioned relative to each other (e.g., at a corresponding angle) to direct their respective flows to meet [e.g., for coating droplets of the first liquid solution (e.g., water, agrochemical solution or pesticide solution) with an adjuvant solution].

[0025] In some embodiments, the nozzle includes a deflector plate to deflect fluid from a first stream exiting a first nozzle outlet and / or to deflect fluid from a second stream exiting a second nozzle outlet.

[0026] In some implementations, the deflector plate is located at or near the outlet of the first nozzle.

[0027] In some implementations, the deflection plate deflects the first and / or second streams into a fan shape.

[0028] In some implementations, the nozzle includes an elliptical orifice to generate a fan of fluid that breaks down into droplets (e.g., co-flow fluid).

[0029] In some implementations, the elliptical orifice is located at or near the outlet of the first or second nozzle.

[0030] In some implementations, the second nozzle outlet includes multiple orifices.

[0031] In some implementations, the second nozzle outlet includes a plurality of orifices positioned on a common plane.

[0032] In some embodiments, the second nozzle outlet includes a plurality of orifices positioned on a plane at an acute angle (e.g., less than 90 degrees, such as between 20 and 80 degrees, such as between 30 and 70 degrees) relative to the plane of the first nozzle outlet.

[0033] In some embodiments, the first nozzle outlet includes a plurality of orifices (e.g., a plurality of orifices positioned on a common plane, such as where the first nozzle outlet includes a plurality of orifices positioned on a plane at an acute angle (e.g., less than 90 degrees, such as between 20 and 80 degrees, such as between 30 and 70 degrees) relative to the plane of the second nozzle outlet).

[0034] In some embodiments, the nozzle has in Figure 4 Or Figures 7 to 23 The configuration described in any of them.

[0035] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a nozzle comprising (i) a primary fluid inlet and channel for guiding a first stream (e.g., water or an aqueous solution, such as an agrochemical solution, or pesticide solution) to a first nozzle outlet and (ii) a secondary fluid inlet and channel for guiding a second stream (e.g., an adjuvant solution) to a second nozzle outlet, the first nozzle outlet and the second nozzle outlet being positioned relative to each other (e.g., at corresponding angles) to guide their respective streams to meet [e.g., for coating droplets of an aqueous solution (e.g., water, agrochemical solution, or pesticide solution) with an adjuvant solution].

[0036] In some embodiments, the nozzle includes a deflector plate (e.g., located at or near the first nozzle outlet) to deflect fluid from the first flow exiting the first nozzle outlet (e.g., to deflect the first flow into a fan shape).

[0037] In some embodiments, the nozzle includes a deflector plate (e.g., located at or near the outlet of the second nozzle) to deflect fluid from a second stream exiting the outlet of the second nozzle (e.g., to deflect the second stream into a fan shape).

[0038] In some embodiments, the second nozzle outlet includes a plurality of orifices (e.g., a plurality of orifices positioned on a common plane, such as where the second nozzle outlet includes a plurality of orifices positioned on a plane at an acute angle (e.g., less than 90 degrees, such as between 20 and 80 degrees, such as between 30 and 70 degrees) relative to the plane of the first nozzle outlet).

[0039] In some embodiments, the first nozzle outlet includes a plurality of orifices (e.g., a plurality of orifices positioned on a common plane, such as where the first nozzle outlet includes a plurality of orifices positioned on a plane at an acute angle (e.g., less than 90 degrees, such as between 20 and 80 degrees, such as between 30 and 70 degrees) relative to the plane of the second nozzle outlet).

[0040] In some embodiments, the nozzle has in Figure 4 Or Figures 7 to 23 The configuration described in any of them.

[0041] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a system for performing the methods described herein, the system comprising:

[0042] One or more nozzles for generating droplets and / or directing droplets onto a plant surface;

[0043] A first container (e.g., a first tank) is used to contain a first liquid (e.g., an agricultural chemical solution, such as a pesticide solution).

[0044] A second container (e.g., a second can) is used to contain a second liquid (e.g., an adjuvant solution) containing an adjuvant.

[0045] A first pump, the first pump being used to draw a first liquid from a first container (e.g., through a first flow line, such as a pipe or conduit) to at least a first nozzle; and

[0046] A second pump (e.g., a metering pump) is used to draw a second liquid from a second container (e.g., through a second flow line, such as a pipe or conduit) to at least a first nozzle.

[0047] One or more nozzles contact the first liquid and the adjuvant to distribute the adjuvant in a spray droplet of the first liquid so as to concentrate the adjuvant in a portion volume (“coating volume”) near the surface of the droplet, wherein there is a lower adjuvant concentration in the volume inside the body including the center of the droplet, wherein the contact between the first liquid and the adjuvant occurs before the droplet contacts the plant surface, and wherein the coating volume contains the concentrated adjuvant for at least a period of time until the droplet impacts the plant surface.

[0048] In some implementations, the second pump provides a lower flow rate of the second liquid than the first liquid.

[0049] In some implementations, the flow rate of the second liquid is less than 1% of the flow rate of the first liquid (e.g., less than 0.5%, such as about 0.25%).

[0050] In some implementations, one or more nozzles comprise a nozzle family.

[0051] In some implementations, the nozzle series includes a row of spaced nozzles positioned to apply a spray liquid to corresponding rows of plants.

[0052] In some implementations, the system is a modification of an existing spraying system (e.g., an existing pesticide spraying system).

[0053] In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more nozzles is a nozzle as described herein (e.g., in...). Figure 4 Or Figures 7 to 23 (Depicted in any of them). Attached Figure Description

[0054] The foregoing and other objects, aspects, features and advantages of this disclosure will become more apparent and better understood by referring to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0055] Figure 1 Two series of photographs depict the behavior of uncoated and coated adjuvanted droplets impacting plant surfaces, according to exemplary embodiments.

[0056] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the benefits of using an adjuvant to coat droplets according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0057] Figure 3 Three series of photographs depict the behavior of comparative droplets impacting a plant surface at an angle according to an exemplary embodiment. Coated droplets with a total adjuvant concentration of 0.25% remained on the plant surface (without completely bouncing off), similar to uncoated droplets with a much higher (1.25%) adjuvant concentration, unlike uncoated droplets with a total adjuvant concentration of 0.25%, which bounced off the plant surface completely.

[0058] Figure 4 An example of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment is depicted, wherein the nozzle has a first inlet for a first stream (e.g., water, such as an aqueous solution containing pesticide) and a second inlet for a second stream (e.g., an aqueous solution containing adjuvant).

[0059] Figure 5 The exemplary implementation scheme is described, including having in Figure 4 Or a modified jet system with nozzles of the design shown in any of 7 to 23.

[0060] Figure 6 It is a graph depicting the surface integral of the plant surface covered by liquid according to the exemplary embodiments using (i) conventional body-type deflecting fan nozzles, (ii) conventional body-type flat fan nozzles and (iii) deflecting fan nozzles.

[0061] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 7 A type of deflecting nozzle according to an exemplary embodiment is depicted, wherein a fluid jet impacts a plate (e.g., a deflecting plate) and the plate deflects the fluid into a fan shape.

[0062] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0063] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0064] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0065] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0066] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0067] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 13 A deflecting nozzle according to an exemplary embodiment is depicted, wherein a fluid jet impacts a plate (e.g., a deflecting plate) and the plate deflects the fluid into a fan shape.

[0068] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0069] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0070] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of a flat fan-enclosed nozzle according to an exemplary embodiment, wherein fluid is forced through an elliptical orifice to produce a co-flow liquid fan that breaks down into droplets.

[0071] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0072] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0073] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0074] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0075] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0076] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0077] Figure 23 A schematic diagram of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 23 (Image A) and a schematic diagram of the nozzle body ( Figure 23 (Image B).

[0078] Figure 24 A comparative description of uncoated adjuvant-containing droplets according to an exemplary embodiment is presented. Figure 24 Image A) and the coated adjuvant-containing droplets ( Figure 24 Image B) shows two sets of images depicting the behavior of impacting the plant surface.

[0079] Figure 25 A comparison is shown between a surface sprayed using a conventional spraying method according to an exemplary embodiment (left image) and a surface sprayed according to the apparatus and method described herein (right image).

[0080] Figure 26 A system for testing the apparatus and methods described herein, according to an exemplary embodiment, is shown.

[0081] Figure 27 An exemplary nozzle for generating coated droplets is shown.

[0082] Figure 28 Box plots are shown showing the coverage over time for two different nozzle types according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0083] Figure 29 The exemplary implementation scheme is described, including having in Figure 4 Or the nozzle of the spray system shown in any of 7 to 23.

[0084] Figure 30 A nozzle (having a nozzle in the exemplary embodiment) is depicted according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 4 The spray system is a nozzle of the design shown in any of 7 to 23.

[0085] Figure 31 A series of images showing the coverage of comparative leaves according to an exemplary implementation are presented.

[0086] Figure 32 A series of bar graphs are shown comparing coverage using the methods described herein with control treatments according to exemplary implementations.

[0087] The features and advantages of this disclosure will become more apparent when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals consistently denote corresponding elements. In the drawings, like reference numerals generally indicate the same, functionally similar, and / or structurally similar elements.

[0088] Some definitions

[0089] To make this disclosure easier to understand, certain terms are defined below. Additional definitions for the following terms and other terms are set forth throughout the specification.

[0090] The articles “a” and “an” are used herein to refer to one or more (i.e., at least one) grammatical object of the article. For example, “element” means one or more elements. Therefore, in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly specifies otherwise. Thus, for example, referring to an agricultural chemical solution containing “agrochemical” includes referring to two or more agricultural chemicals.

[0091] About, approximately: As used in this application, the terms “about” and “approximately” are used as equivalents. Any number used in this application, with or without the use of “about” / “approximately”, is intended to cover any normal fluctuations as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. In some embodiments, the terms “about” or “approximately” refer to a range of values ​​falling within 25%, 20%, 19%, 18%, 17%, 16%, 15%, 14%, 13%, 12%, 11%, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, or less in either direction (greater or less) of the reference value, unless otherwise stated or apparent from the context (unless such a number would exceed 100% of the possible value). Detailed Implementation

[0092] It is anticipated that the systems, architectures, apparatuses, methods, and processes of the claimed inventions encompass variations and adaptations developed using information from the embodiments described herein. As envisioned in this specification, adaptations and / or modifications to the systems, architectures, apparatuses, methods, and processes described herein can be performed.

[0093] Throughout this specification, where articles of manufacture, apparatus, systems, and architectures are described as having, including, or containing specific components, or where processes and methods are described as having, including, or containing specific steps, it is anticipated that, in addition, there are articles of manufacture, apparatus, systems, and architectures of the invention that are substantially composed of or comprised of the listed components, and there are processes and methods of the invention that are substantially composed of or comprised of the listed processing steps.

[0094] It should be understood that the order of steps or the order in which certain actions are performed is not important as long as the invention remains operable. Furthermore, two or more steps or actions can be performed simultaneously.

[0095] Any publications mentioned herein are not an admission that such publication is prior art with respect to any of the claims made herein. The background section may include concepts informed by the embodiments recited in the claims and further described elsewhere in the specification. The discussion of concepts in the background section is not an admission that the subject matter discussed is prior art.

[0096] As indicated, this document is incorporated herein by reference. In the event of any discrepancy in the meaning of a particular term, the meaning provided in this document shall prevail.

[0097] The title is provided for the convenience of the reader—the existence and / or placement of the title is not intended to limit the scope of the subject matter described in this article.

[0098] This document presents systems, methods, and apparatuses for enhancing the coverage and retention of liquid solutions sprayed onto plant surfaces. More specifically, in some embodiments, this document presents systems, methods, and apparatuses for distributing adjuvants within spray droplets to concentrate the adjuvants within a portion of a volume (e.g., a “coverage volume”) near the droplet surface, wherein a lower adjuvant concentration is present in the volume within the body, including the droplet center.

[0099] Furthermore, this paper presents nozzles and spray systems particularly suitable for implementing improved coating techniques. In some embodiments, the nozzle includes (i) a primary fluid inlet and channel for guiding a first stream (e.g., water or an aqueous solution, such as an agrochemical solution, or pesticide solution) to a first nozzle outlet and (ii) a secondary fluid inlet and channel for guiding a second stream (e.g., an adjuvant solution) to a second nozzle outlet, the first and second nozzle outlets being positioned relative to each other (e.g., at corresponding angles) to guide their respective streams to meet [e.g., for coating droplets of an aqueous solution (e.g., water, agrochemical solution, or pesticide solution) with an adjuvant solution]. In some embodiments, the nozzle includes a deflector plate (e.g., located at or near the first nozzle outlet) to deflect fluid from the first stream exiting the first nozzle outlet (e.g., to fan the first stream). In some embodiments, the nozzle includes a deflector plate (e.g., located at or near the second nozzle outlet) to deflect fluid from the second stream exiting the second nozzle outlet (e.g., to fan the second stream). In some embodiments, the second nozzle outlet includes a plurality of orifices (e.g., a plurality of orifices positioned on a common plane, such as where the second nozzle outlet includes a plurality of orifices positioned on a plane at an acute angle (e.g., less than 90 degrees, such as between 20 and 80 degrees, such as between 30 and 70 degrees) relative to the plane of the first nozzle outlet).

[0100] Various coating methods, compositions, and apparatuses are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2023 / 0135222, filed October 27, 2022 and published May 4, 2023, entitled "Compositions, Articles, Devices, and Methods Related to Droplets Comprising a Cloaking Fluid," filed by Varanasi et al. on October 27, 2022 and published thereon, the entire text of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0101] I. Adjuvants

[0102] As used herein, the term "adjuvant" can be used to describe a substance that alters the properties and / or characteristics of a desired chemical in a composition. In some embodiments, an adjuvant is a substance added to a tank mix to aid or alter the action of an agrochemical or the physical properties of the mixture. In some embodiments, an adjuvant is used to coat droplets of an agrochemical solution to promote adhesion (retention) of the droplets on a plant surface. In some embodiments, adjuvants are designed and incorporated to perform functions associated with the mixing and application of agrochemicals, including but not limited to dispersion, emulsification, spreading, adhesion, and wetting. In some embodiments, adjuvants can reduce evaporation, foaming, spray drift, and volatilization. In some embodiments, adjuvants can be designed to perform multiple functions. In some embodiments, multiple adjuvants can be used together to achieve a specific desired result or a set of results.

[0103] In some embodiments, the adjuvant is a nonionic surfactant (NIS), a surfactant plus a nitrogen source, a silicone surfactant, a high surfactant oil concentrate (HSOC), a crop oil concentrate (COC), a vegetable oil concentrate, a modified vegetable oil (MVO or MSO), a nitrogen source, a depositing (drift control) and / or retaining agent with or without ammonium sulfate and / or an antifoaming agent, a compatibilizer, a buffer and / or an acidifier, a water conditioner, a base blend, a binder-spreader and / or a extender, an adjuvant plus a foliar fertilizer, an antifoaming agent, a foam marker, a flavoring agent, or a can cleaner and / or a neutralizer. In some embodiments, the adjuvant is such as in "Compendium of Herbicide Adjuvants," 2016, [article title missing]. 13 The adjuvant described in Young, Matthews, and Whitford, Purdue University, Southern Illinois University, and Purdue Pesticide Programs is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0104] In some implementations, the adjuvant is a non-oil adjuvant (e.g., a non-oil surfactant). Solutions containing non-oil adjuvants have been found to work well with the coating methods described herein.

[0105] In some embodiments, the coating volume has an adjuvant concentration in the range of about 2.5C to about 8C (e.g., about 3C to about 6C, such as about 4C), where 1C is the total amount of adjuvant (e.g., mass) divided by the total droplet volume.

[0106] II. Agricultural chemicals

[0107] As used herein, agricultural chemicals (agricultural products) refer to chemical products used in agriculture. In some embodiments, the agricultural chemical solution contains one or more agricultural chemicals as described herein.

[0108] In some implementations, the agrochemical is a biocide or insecticide. For example, the agrochemical may be an insecticide, herbicide, rodenticide, and / or fungicide. Exemplary agrochemicals include, but are not limited to, glyphosate, imidacloprid, permethrin, pyrethroids, acetamiprid, organophosphates, acaricides, fipronil, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, acephate, sulfur, lambda-cyhalothrin, copper sulfate, molluscicides, chlorpyrifos, malathion, carbaryl, boric acid, cypermethrin, bifenthrin, diazinon, and chlordane.

[0109] In some implementations, the agricultural chemicals are fertilizers (e.g., foliar fertilizers).

[0110] In some implementations, agrochemicals are used as preparations (e.g., nutrient preparations) to provide or supplement nutrients to plants, or as part thereof.

[0111] III. Examples

[0112] Figure 1 Two series of photographs depict the behavior of uncoated and coated adjuvanted droplets impacting plant surfaces. The top series is a still photograph depicting high-speed video of droplets from a conventionally prepared adjuvant solution, where the droplets have a relatively uniform adjuvant concentration throughout their volume. In the depicted time series, the droplets impact the plant surface at approximately 5.13 ms, flatten at approximately 8.55 ms, bounce at approximately 17.48 ms, begin to completely detach from the plant surface at approximately 30.97 ms, and continue to detach from the plant surface at 37.05 ms.

[0113] The bottom series depicts still photographs from high-speed video of droplets containing the same total amount of adjuvant (conventional canned adjuvant) as in the first series of still photographs, except that the droplets in the bottom series are coated with adjuvant according to the apparatus and method described herein. As seen in the bottom series of high-speed video still photographs captured at approximately the same time as above, the droplets impact the plant surface, flatten, and bounce, but do not detach from the plant surface at any point. The droplets remain on the plant surface.

[0114] In some implementations, Figure 1The coating volume of the droplets in the bottom series shown has a value in the range of about 0.1V to about 0.5V (e.g., about 0.15V to about 0.3V, such as about 0.2V), where V is the total droplet volume. In some embodiments, the coating volume has an adjuvant concentration in the range of about 2.5C to about 8C (e.g., about 3C to about 6C, such as about 4C), where 1C is the total amount of adjuvant (e.g., mass) divided by the total droplet volume. Thus, the same total amount of adjuvant can be used in the same volume of liquid, but can be distributed in the droplets in a way that maximizes the surface adhesion properties contributed by the adjuvant.

[0115] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the benefits of using adjuvants to coat droplets of agricultural chemical solutions (e.g., pesticide solutions) to promote the adhesion (retention) of the droplets on plant surfaces.

[0116] Figure 2 The top image shows two droplets impacting the plant surface—the first droplet has a lower adjuvant concentration, and the second droplet has a higher adjuvant concentration, where adjuvant molecules are depicted as small capsules within and around the droplets. For Figure 2 The top diagram illustrates two droplets, with the adjuvant added via a conventional method, such as by mixing the adjuvant into the solution in the container before the droplets form. At a low concentration (first droplet), the adjuvant molecules cannot diffuse sufficiently quickly to the droplet / plant surface interface to prevent bounce (shown on the right). At a high concentration (second droplet), due to the higher concentration of adjuvant in the droplet (here, 5 times the concentration in the first droplet), diffusion is effectively accelerated (a higher density of adjuvant molecules is present at the surface), and therefore, the second droplet does not bounce (shown on the right) and remains on the plant surface. However, using adjuvants exceeding the recommended amount may interfere with the active ingredient in the agrochemical solution in which the adjuvant is mixed and may lead to phytotoxicity.

[0117] Figure 2 The bottom diagram also illustrates two droplets impacting a plant surface. However, the first and second droplets in the bottom diagram have the same total adjuvant concentration (adjuvant dose per droplet volume). Here, the first droplet has a relatively uniform adjuvant concentration in its volume, prepared using conventional methods. In contrast, the second droplet is a coated droplet with a non-uniform adjuvant concentration distribution, where most (if not all) of the adjuvant is located in a small volume (coating) around / near the outside of the droplet. Coated droplets can be produced using the techniques described herein. Even Figure 2The first and second droplets in the bottom diagram have the same total amount of adjuvant per droplet volume. The first droplet bounces back, while the second droplet adheres to the plant surface. Without being bound by any particular theory, it is believed that the first droplet bounces back because its adjuvant molecules cannot diffuse sufficiently quickly to the droplet / plant surface interface within the time frame required to prevent bounce (and / or the adjuvant molecules cannot reach a sufficiently high molecular density at the interface), while the second droplet adheres to the plant surface because diffusion can be effectively accelerated (with a lower average diffusion distance) within the time frame required to prevent bounce, by having a higher concentration of adjuvant near the outside of the droplet (and / or the adjuvant molecules can maintain a sufficiently high molecular density at the interface).

[0118] Figure 3 Three series of photographs depict the behavior of comparative droplets impacting a plant surface at an angle according to exemplary embodiments. The top series of three photographs represents conventionally tank-mixed droplets with a low adjuvant concentration (0.25%, wt%) of a 0.25% adjuvant solution, where the adjuvant concentration is relatively uniform throughout the droplet. The middle series of three photographs represents conventionally tank-mixed droplets but with a high adjuvant concentration (1.25%). The bottom series of three photographs represents droplets coated using the method described herein, with a low total adjuvant concentration (0.25%) but a high adjuvant concentration within the "coated" volume near the droplet surface. The coated droplets with a total adjuvant concentration of 0.25% remain on the plant surface (without completely bouncing off), similar to uncoated droplets with a much higher (1.25%) adjuvant concentration, and unlike the uncoated droplets with a total adjuvant concentration of 0.25%, which bounce off the plant surface completely. Therefore, lower adjuvant concentrations can be used to achieve droplet adhesion to plant surfaces while still avoiding problems such as phytotoxicity caused by using large amounts of adjuvants. Using coating technology also saves costs and prevents potential contamination.

[0119] Figure 4 An example of a nozzle for generating coated droplets is depicted, wherein the coated nozzle has a first inlet (e.g., a primary fluid inlet) for a first stream (e.g., water, such as an aqueous solution containing a pesticide) and a second inlet (e.g., a secondary fluid inlet) for a second stream (e.g., an aqueous solution containing an adjuvant), as depicted in the upper left of the schematic diagram. The nozzle has a second nozzle outlet comprising a plurality of orifices (e.g., a plurality of orifices positioned on a common plane, such that the second nozzle outlet comprises a plurality of orifices positioned at an acute angle (e.g., less than 90 degrees, such as between 20 and 80 degrees, such as between 30 and 70 degrees) relative to the plane of the first nozzle outlet).

[0120] Figure 4The document also includes a time-series of photographs demonstrating the use of the coated nozzle. The first photograph (top) shows a metal surface held against the side of the glass, with only water flowing through the coated nozzle. The water is pumped through the nozzle's first inlet, through the nozzle's first channel, and out of the nozzle's first outlet, thus creating droplets. In this photograph, no adjuvant is introduced via the adjuvant inlet (the nozzle's second inlet). The first photograph in the bottom row shows a metal surface held at an angle under the droplet flow without the use of an adjuvant solution. The second photograph shows no droplets adhering to the metal surface.

[0121] Next, the adjuvant solution is pumped through the second inlet of the nozzle (“adjuvant inlet”), through the adjuvant channel, and out of the adjuvant orifice of the nozzle, where the adjuvant comes into contact with water droplets exiting from the first inlet of the nozzle, thereby forming an adjuvant coating around the water droplets. The third photograph in the bottom row shows the same metal surface held at approximately the same angle under the coated droplet flow. The fourth photograph in the bottom row shows the coated droplets adhering to the metal surface.

[0122] Those skilled in the art can adjust the flow rate of the corresponding solution to optimize droplet coating for specific situations.

[0123] Figure 5 The exemplary implementation scheme is described, including having in Figure 4 A modified spraying system with nozzles of the design shown in any of 7 to 23. In this example, the system has a first container (e.g., a water tank) for containing a first liquid (e.g., water or an aqueous solution of an agricultural chemical, such as a pesticide solution); a second container (e.g., an adjuvant tank) for containing an adjuvant solution; a pump for drawing the first liquid from the first container to a series of nozzles via a flow line; and a metering pump for drawing the adjuvant solution from the adjuvant tank via another flow line leading to the series of nozzles. In some embodiments, the flow rate of the adjuvant solution is less than 1% of the flow rate of the first liquid (e.g., less than 0.5%, such as about 0.25%). As discussed above, each nozzle produces droplets via a first outlet (or a first series of outlets) and contacts the adjuvant solution with those droplets (e.g., via a second outlet or a second series of outlets). In some embodiments, as Figure 5 As illustrated, the nozzle series consists of a row of spaced nozzles positioned to apply a spray of liquid to corresponding rows of plants. Figure 5 As shown, the system can be part of (or attached to) a tractor designed to move downwards along rows of plants (e.g., crops) to apply a first liquid coated with an adjuvant. In some embodiments, this is a modification of an existing spraying system (e.g., an existing pesticide spraying system).

[0124] As those skilled in the art will understand, nozzle dimensions (including outlet and inlet dimensions) and other system dimensions can be optimized for specific situations.

[0125] Figure 6 It describes the use of, for example, based on exemplary implementation schemes. Figure 5 The graph depicts the surface area (“coverage”) of the plant surface covered by liquid in a spraying system having (i) a conventional body-type deflecting fan nozzle, (ii) a conventional body-type flat fan nozzle, and (iii) a coated deflecting fan nozzle. Conventional nozzles (i) and (ii) do not have secondary flow inlets. In each case, the system is attached to a tractor moving at 4 mph, with the nozzle positioned above rows of plant surfaces. The coated technique (iii) using the coated deflecting fan nozzle results in a higher liquid coverage value than either of the conventional (non-coated) techniques (i) and (ii).

[0126] Figures 7 to 23 This is a schematic diagram of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment, the coated nozzle having various designs. Of particular note is that... Figure 7 and Figure 13 Two types of deflection nozzles according to exemplary embodiments are depicted, wherein the fluid jet impacts a plate (e.g., a deflection plate) and the plate deflects the fluid into a fan shape. Figure 16 A flat fan-enclosed nozzle according to an exemplary embodiment is depicted, wherein fluid is forced through an elliptical orifice near the nozzle outlet to produce a co-flow liquid fan that breaks down into droplets.

[0127] Figure 23 A schematic diagram of a nozzle for generating coated droplets according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 23 (Image A) and a schematic diagram of the nozzle body ( Figure 23 (Image B). Figure 23 The nozzle shown in Figure A has a plate (e.g., a deflector plate) located between the outlets of the adjuvant and main fluid flows to deflect the fluid jet into a fan shape, wherein the plate disperses the flow outward from the nozzle, causing the fluids (e.g., droplets) from the two flows to mix. As shown, in some embodiments, the dispersing surface is built into the body of the nozzle assembly such that it is not a component separate from the adjuvant flow channel and the main flow channel of the nozzle.

[0128] Figure 24 Images A and B depict two pictures comparing the impact behavior of uncoated and coated adjuvanted droplets on a plant surface according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 24 In image A, the lower right image depicts a still photograph of a video of droplets from a conventionally mixed adjuvant solution in a tank, where the droplets exhibit a relatively uniform adjuvant concentration throughout their volume. Figure 24 In image A, the top image shows a leaf coated with droplets prepared using a conventional can-based solution. Figure 24 In image B, the lower right image depicts something from... Figure 24 The image A is a still photograph of the video containing adjuvanted droplets, except that the droplets in the lower right image video still photograph and the droplets on the leaf are coated with adjuvant according to the apparatus and method described herein.

[0129] Figure 25 A comparison is shown between a surface sprayed using a conventional spraying method according to an exemplary embodiment (left image) and a surface sprayed according to the apparatus and method described herein (right image).

[0130] Figure 26 A laboratory simulation system for testing the apparatus and methods described herein, according to an exemplary embodiment, is shown. Furthermore, the laboratory setup can be used to perform droplet size and sector analysis. In some embodiments, the system can be used to test various velocities (e.g., high-speed), dyes, and complex PDAs. In some embodiments, the system can be used to test surface (e.g., plant surface) coverage at different velocities from 0 mph to 18 mph. In some embodiments, the system can be used to test wind and chemicals (e.g., adjuvant chemicals, agrochemicals).

[0131] Figure 27 Other exemplary nozzles for generating coated droplets are shown (e.g., such as...). Figure 23 (The nozzle shown in Image A). Laboratory tests are used to verify the fan quality (e.g., the quality of the spray fan produced by the coated nozzle), shape, and aging of the nozzle being tested. In some embodiments, 80-degree, 110-degree, and 140-degree nozzle tips are used, and tests can be performed using the settings depicted. Figure 28 Box plots of coverage over time for two different nozzle types according to exemplary embodiments are shown. Furthermore, results indicate that in some embodiments, the methods and apparatus described herein can provide greater coverage over time (e.g., over 100% coverage) compared to a control setting using the same GPM and adjuvant concentration.

[0132] Figure 29 The exemplary implementation scheme is described, including having in Figure 4Or a spray system (e.g., a modified spray system) with nozzles of the design shown in any of 7 to 23. In this example, the system has a spray tank for containing a first liquid; an adjuvant tank for containing an adjuvant solution; a pump (e.g., a metering pump) for drawing the first liquid from the spray tank to a series of nozzles via a flow line; and a pump (e.g., a metering pump) for drawing the adjuvant solution from the adjuvant tank via another flow line leading to the series of nozzles. In some embodiments, the flow rate of the adjuvant solution is less than 1% of the flow rate of the first liquid (e.g., less than 0.5%, such as about 0.25%). As discussed above, each nozzle generates droplets via a first outlet (or a first series of outlets) and contacts those droplets with the adjuvant solution (e.g., via a second outlet or a second series of outlets). In some embodiments, as Figure 29 As illustrated, the nozzle series is a row of spaced nozzles positioned to apply a sprayed liquid to corresponding rows of plants. In some embodiments, the system may be part of (or attached to) a tractor designed to move downwards along rows of plants (e.g., crops) to apply a first liquid coated with an adjuvant. In some embodiments, this is a retrofit of an existing spraying system (e.g., an existing pesticide spraying system). Figure 29 The left image shows an exemplary nozzle assembly attached to a frame (e.g., a frame that can be attached to a traction device).

[0133] As those skilled in the art will understand, nozzle dimensions (including outlet and inlet dimensions) and other system dimensions can be optimized for specific situations.

[0134] Figure 30 A nozzle (having a nozzle in the exemplary embodiment) is depicted according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 4 The spray system is a nozzle of the design shown in any of 7 to 23.

[0135] Figure 31 A series of images are shown comparing leaf coverage with water alone (18% coverage), with the old adjuvant (4% coverage), and with the adjuvant applied using the methods and systems described herein, according to exemplary embodiments.

[0136] Figure 32 The example implementation shows a comparison using the method as described herein with a control treatment method (e.g., the "AgZen method") (e.g., corresponding to...) Figure 30 and 31 A series of bar graphs comparing the coverage of the method and system to the control method. The bar graphs show that the method (e.g., the "AgZen method") has greater coverage when using 20 GPA or 10 GPA processing compared to the control method.

[0137] Other implementation plans

[0138] While we have described numerous embodiments, it will be apparent that our basic disclosure and examples can provide other embodiments utilizing or covered by the compositions and methods described herein. Therefore, it should be understood that the scope is defined by what can be understood from the disclosure and the appended claims, and not by the specific embodiments shown by examples. All references cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference.

Claims

1. A method of applying a solution to a plant surface, the method comprising contacting a first liquid and an adjuvant to distribute the adjuvant in a spray droplet of the first liquid such that the adjuvant is concentrated in a portion volume ("coating volume") near the surface of the droplet, wherein a lower adjuvant concentration is present in an internal volume including the center of the droplet, wherein the contact between the first liquid and the adjuvant occurs prior to contact between the droplet and the plant surface, and wherein the coating volume contains the concentrated adjuvant for at least a period of time until the droplet impacts the plant surface.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the coating volume has a value in the range of about 0.05V to about 0.5V, where V is the total droplet volume.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the coating volume has an adjuvant concentration in the range of about 1.5C to about 15C, wherein 1C is the total amount of adjuvant divided by the total droplet volume.

4. The method as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the coating volume comprises a concentrated adjuvant for at least a period of time until the droplets impact the plant surface and bounce back.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the droplet bounces back without completely leaving the plant surface.

6. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the encapsulation volume comprises a period of time during which the concentrated adjuvant lasts for at least 20 ms, at least 50 ms, at least 100 ms, at least 150 ms, at least 200 ms, at least 250 ms, at least 500 ms, at least 1 s, at least 2 s, or longer.

7. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the adjuvant comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of: nonionic surfactants (NIS), surfactants with nitrogen sources, silicone surfactants, high surfactant oil concentrates (HSOC), crop oil concentrates (COC), vegetable oil concentrates, modified vegetable oils (MVO or MSO), nitrogen sources, depositing (drift control) and / or retaining agents with or without ammonium sulfate and / or defoamers, compatibilizers, buffers and / or acidifiers, water conditioners, base blends, adhesive-spreading agents and / or extenders, adjuvants with foliar fertilizers, antifoaming agents, foam markers, flavoring agents, and can cleaners and / or neutralizers.

8. The method as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the first liquid is an agricultural chemical solution, wherein the agricultural chemical includes pesticides.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the agrochemical comprises one or more members selected from the group consisting of: glyphosate, imidacloprid, permethrin, pyrethroids, acetamiprid, organophosphates, acaricides, fipronil, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, acephate, sulfur, cyhalothrin, copper sulfate, molluscicides, chlorpyrifos, malathion, carbaryl, boric acid, cypermethrin, bifenthrin, diazinon, and chlordane.

10. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first liquid is an agricultural chemical solution, wherein the agricultural chemical includes fertilizer.

11. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the adjuvant is a non-oil adjuvant.

12. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein contacting the first liquid and the adjuvant comprises using a nozzle, wherein the nozzle comprises (i) a primary fluid inlet and channel for directing a first flow containing the first liquid to a first nozzle outlet and (ii) a secondary fluid inlet and channel for directing a second flow containing the adjuvant to a second nozzle outlet, the first nozzle outlet and the second nozzle outlet being positioned relative to each other to direct their respective flows to meet.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the nozzle includes a deflector plate to deflect fluid from the first flow exiting the first nozzle outlet and / or to deflect fluid from the second flow exiting the second nozzle outlet.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the deflector plate is located at or near the first nozzle outlet.

15. The method of claim 13 or 14, wherein the deflector plate deflects the first stream and / or the second stream into a fan shape.

16. The method of any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the nozzle comprises an elliptical orifice to produce a fluid fan that breaks down into droplets.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the elliptical orifice is located at or near the first nozzle outlet or the second nozzle outlet.

18. The method of any one of claims 12 to 17, wherein the second nozzle outlet comprises a plurality of orifices.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the second nozzle outlet comprises a plurality of orifices positioned on a common plane.

20. The method of claim 18 or 19, wherein the second nozzle outlet includes a plurality of orifices positioned on a plane at an acute angle relative to the plane of the first nozzle outlet.

21. The method of any one of claims 12 to 20, wherein the first nozzle outlet comprises a plurality of orifices.

22. The method of any one of claims 12 to 21, wherein the nozzle has the configuration depicted in FIG4 or in any one of FIG7 to 23.

23. A nozzle comprising (i) a primary fluid inlet and channel for directing a first flow to a first nozzle outlet and (ii) a secondary fluid inlet and channel for directing a second flow to a second nozzle outlet, the first nozzle outlet and the second nozzle outlet being positioned relative to each other to direct their respective flows to meet.

24. The nozzle of claim 23, wherein the nozzle includes a deflector plate to deflect fluid from the first flow exiting the first nozzle outlet.

25. The nozzle of claim 23 or 24, wherein the nozzle includes a deflector plate to deflect fluid from the second flow exiting the second nozzle outlet.

26. The nozzle of any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the second nozzle outlet comprises a plurality of orifices.

27. The nozzle of any one of claims 23 to 26, wherein the first nozzle outlet comprises a plurality of orifices.

28. The nozzle of any one of claims 23 to 27, wherein the nozzle has the configuration depicted in FIG4 or in any one of FIG7 to 23.

29. A system for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 22, the system comprising: One or more nozzles, the one or more nozzles being used to generate droplets and / or guide the droplets onto the plant surface; A first container, the first container being used to contain the first liquid; A second container, the second container being used to contain a second liquid containing the adjuvant; A first pump, the first pump being used to draw the first liquid from the first container into at least a first nozzle; as well as A second pump, used to draw the second liquid from the second container into at least the first nozzle. The one or more nozzles contact the first liquid and the adjuvant to distribute the adjuvant in a spray droplet of the first liquid, so as to concentrate the adjuvant in a portion of the volume near the droplet surface ("encapsulation volume"), wherein there is a lower adjuvant concentration in the volume inside the body including the center of the droplet, wherein the contact between the first liquid and the adjuvant occurs before the droplet contacts the plant surface, and wherein the encapsulation volume contains concentrated adjuvant for at least a period of time until the droplet impacts the plant surface.

30. The system of claim 29, wherein the second pump provides a lower flow rate of the second liquid than the first liquid.

31. The system of claim 30, wherein the flow rate of the second liquid is less than 1% of the flow rate of the first liquid.

32. The system of claims 29 to 31, wherein the one or more nozzles comprise a nozzle series.

33. The system of claim 32, wherein the nozzle series comprises a row of spaced nozzles positioned to apply a spray liquid to corresponding rows of plants.

34. The system of any one of claims 29 to 33, wherein the system is a modification of an existing spray system.

35. The system of any one of claims 29 to 34, wherein at least one of the one or more nozzles is a nozzle of any one of claims 23 to 28.

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