Biocompatible carrier composition based on modified starch for use in plant protection agents, plant growth agents, cosmetics, and personal care products

Abstract

In the field of agriculture, etc., by forming a film-like material as a plant protection agent, etc., it is possible to increase the productivity of plants, or in the field of seed coating and livestock farming, to reduce soil binding and erosion due to dust formation. Therefore, the amylose content is at least 30% by weight relative to the total amount of starch (100% by weight), and the weight-average molar mass is 1 × 10 5 ~1×10 8 g / mol of hydroxyalkyl starch, an alkali metal salt and / or an alkaline earth metal salt, and water.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a biocompatible carrier composition based on modified starch in plant protection agents, plant growth agents, cosmetics, and personal care products, an aqueous composition, a method for using the composition, a film-like material derived from the composition, and cosmetics containing the composition. In particular, the present invention relates to an aqueous composition containing hydroxyalkyl starch or the like, which is a modified starch, a film-like material derived from the aqueous composition, a method for using the composition for agriculture, cosmetics, etc., and cosmetics containing the aqueous composition.

Background Art

[0002] Generally, starch is a very versatile natural polysaccharide that depends on the origin, granule structure, accompanying substances, amylose / amylopectin ratio, and molar mass distribution. Therefore, native starch and modified starch are used in foods, beverages, feeds, fermentation processes, the production of paper and cardboard, the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries, and the like.

[0003] And one of the important parameters in determining the properties of modified starch is the amylose content. For example, most starches containing fruits, plants, and vegetables contain less than 30% by weight of amylose based on the total amount of starch (100% by weight). Since the term high amylose starch (HAS) is not clearly defined, in this specification, when the amylose content is 30% by weight or more in terms of solid content based on the total amount of starch (100% by weight), it will be defined as high amylose starch.

[0004] Also, modified HAS is known as a food additive for improving gel-forming ability, freeze-thaw stability, and thickening properties (Non-Patent Document 1 and Non-Patent Document 2).

[0005] In recent years, most of the polymers used in agriculture are derived from synthetic or natural sources (Non-Patent Document 3). Among these polymers, some are derived from natural products such as guar gum, alginic acid, pectin, chitosan, polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), etc. However, since they can only be isolated in limited quantities and through complex processes, the availability of the resulting products is restricted, and the price becomes relatively high. Since more efficient and sustainable agriculture is a global issue, optimized starch-derived products have the potential to bring great benefits to plant production worldwide. On the one hand, starch is abundantly contained in many plants, vegetables, and fruits as a storage polysaccharide. On the other hand, its extraction is carried out by standard processes, and the annual production volume in 2018 was 88 million tons (Non-Patent Document 4). This means that the price of starch is relatively low, and starch has the potential to become an attractive biopolymer for various product developments. Furthermore, starch also has the characteristics of biodegradability and biocompatibility.

[0006] (Leaf coating treatment) If pesticides or fertilizers are washed off the leaves at an early stage by rain, irrigation, or other means, their efficiency will be significantly reduced, leading to complex environmental problems in the soil and unnecessary movement of chemicals into groundwater. Most of the active ingredients contained in plant protection agents are either in very small amounts or have the property of being insoluble in water. Therefore, the main components of these compositions are emulsifiers and surfactants for making sprayable aqueous dispersions. On the other hand, these agents have the problem of enhancing the effect of washing off the leaves during rainfall or irrigation.

[0007] Also, commonly used fixing agents are based on surfactants and mineral oils, which reduce the surface tension and make it easier to spread on the leaves and soil and form an oil film. As a result, the natural cuticular wax layer on the leaves may be removed or partially melted, which may stress the plants. Originally, the leaf wax layer protects the plants from dehydration and surface wetness. If this layer is affected by chemicals, the plants will first show wilting of the leaves, and in the long term, growth will slow down and crop yields will decrease.

[0008] Also, U.S. Patent No. 2003 / 0109384 describes a solid formulation of modified starch together with a physiologically active substance, an additional surfactant, and an adjuvant. This U.S. patent describes a solid formulation dispersible in water, which is composed of, for example, modified starch such as esters or ethers, physiologically active agricultural materials such as herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, and any surfactant or adjuvant.

[0009] (Soil coating treatment) Moreover, preventing soil erosion in the agricultural landscape is one of the major issues in crop cultivation. When substances such as organic matter, seeds, or fertilizers are lost due to wind or water, the soil fertility and crop yields will decrease significantly. Therefore, one solution to prevent soil displacement, drift, and leaching is preferably to coat the soil surface with a polymer substance derived from natural products or a polymer substance derived from synthetic products. That is, the coated and bound soil particles are more resistant to mechanical impacts such as rain, running water, and wind. Also, in U.S. Patent No. 9,771,516, a mixture is disclosed that includes a multi, a coating composition containing bentonite clay, and a water-dispersible polymer or starch derived from cellulose.

[0010] Also, U.S. Patent No. 5,125,770 describes that by using a large amount of a mixture of starch before gelatinization and a surfactant, the soil can be stabilized and erosion can be reduced.

[0011] Referring to U.S. Patent No. 2,957,834, a synthetic resin can be formed by adding urea, melamine, phenols, dicyandiamide, and acetone as additional additives. And it is disclosed that it is desirable to spray a cold water-swellable starch solution containing formaldehyde as a crosslinking agent onto the soil surface and stabilize it.

[0012] (Coating treatment of seeds) Also, for protection against mechanical or drying stress, damage by bacteria or fungi, and insects, birds, and rodents, seeds are often coated with a coating material or pelletized. Another important aspect of seed coating is to protect the seeds during germination and the initial stages of growth by means of a coating containing pesticides, fertilizers, and bioactive agents. In particular, when using fungicides, insecticides, and bactericides, the seed coating may wear during the sawing process such as hulling or rubbing to remove the seed coat, potentially causing serious environmental pollution. Therefore, one of the main challenges in seed coating is to suppress the generation of dust caused by the seed coat. Thus, it seems reasonable to apply a coating polymer as the final coating or intermediate coating before or during the seed sawing process. Ideally, this type of coating polymer should have good biodegradability and further have at least one of the desired protective or growth-promoting effects.

[0013] Also, International Publication No. 99 / 57959 discloses seeds coated with a water-dispersible or water-soluble polymer derived from starch such as polysaccharides, and surrounded by a film-like material formed thereby. It is also described that it is preferable to produce a polysaccharide polymer by jet cooking starch. Also, it is described that the coating can contain one or more beneficial additives including, for example, adhesives or binders; plasticizers; colorants or dyes; hydrophobic and / or hydrophilic materials; insecticides, fungicides or herbicides; bacterial inoculation materials; nutrients; and plant growth agents only. Also, it is described that according to slurry treatment, it is typically added to seeds so as to have a compounding concentration of about 0.1 to 0.5% by weight, and according to film coating, it is typically carried out by adding to seeds so as to have a compounding concentration of about 0.5 to 2% by weight.

[0014] Also, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0150354 discloses a coating composition for seeds comprising a polymer blend formed from cross-linked amylose or amylopectin. According to it, the other component, which is the second binder, is a synthetic polymer or modified guar gum. However, it goes without saying that the process of isolating amylose is very special and difficult.

[0015] Also, the claims of International Publication No. 99 / 51210 describe a coating agent comprising modified starch and a plasticizer.

[0016] Also, as another embodiment of starch, a method of using it as a highly water-absorbent fertilizer and micronutrient is disclosed.

[0017] For example, U.S. Patent No. 7,423,106 discloses a highly absorbent polymer product (particles) for agricultural use, and this polymer product is manufactured by the following steps. - Step of preparing a graft reactant and starch; - Step of graft polymerizing the graft reactant on starch to form a starch graft copolymer; - Step of saponifying the formed starch graft copolymer; - Step of precipitating the saponified starch graft copolymer; and - Granulating the precipitated starch graft copolymer to form particles having a density in the range of about 30 pounds / cubic foot to about 35 pounds / cubic foot

[0018] However, such polymer products (particles) derived from starch had limitations in the ability to penetrate into the soil compared to starch dispersions or starch solutions. Furthermore, the synthetic copolymer grafted onto the starch backbone reduced biodegradability and might exhibit toxic effects after starch decomposition.

[0019] (Root coating treatment) Also, U.S. Patent No. 7,607,259 discloses a superabsorbent polymer hydrogel as a "root coating material" for improving the storage, transportation or planting of exposed roots. The crosslinked starch-based copolymer grafted with acrylic acid formulated as acrylamide or potassium salt as the main component can be used as a single coating agent or in combination with at least one agricultural additive such as fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, fungicides and growth regulators. However, due to the use of synthetic acrylamide / acrylic acid for grafting, the starch formulation was environmentally problematic and had limited biodegradability and biocompatibility.

[0020] (Dust suppression treatment) Also, airborne dust is a global phenomenon and can cause serious environmental, health and safety problems in mining facilities, agriculture, transportation, industry and construction, etc. That is, while dust particles can carry microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses over thousands of kilometers, the spread of dust mainly depends on the particle size. Therefore, there is a need to bind fine airborne dust particles in an effective and environmentally friendly way.

[0021] Therefore, in Canadian Patent Application No. 2868855, a polymer dispersion by emulsion polymerization based on styrene or modified styrene, acrylate or methacrylate, acrylonitrile or methacrylonitrile, ethylenically unsaturated monomer, and raw starch, modified starch, or degraded and modified starch is disclosed. Also, it is presumed that biodegradability is affected depending on the blending of synthetic monomers.

[0022] Also, in US Patent No. 6,090,875, a similar polymer composition containing a starch acrylonitrile graft copolymer, a hydrolyzate of a partially neutralized starch-acrylic acid or starch-polyvinyl alcohol graft copolymer is disclosed.

[0023] (Cosmetics and Personal Care Products) Also, conventional specified polymers are widely used in the applications of cosmetics and personal care products. That is, the range of uses and types of specified polymers is diverse. Also, usually, synthetic or silicon-derived polymers are applied as thickeners, emulsifiers, barrier formers, film formers, wetting agents, and for cosmetic reasons. In particular, microplastics and soluble plastics derived from polyacrylates, preferably carboxylic acid-containing polymers, are frequently used in cosmetics and are regarded as a problem due to environmental pollution reasons. Therefore, in cosmetics and personal care products, it can be said that there is a high demand for substitutes for synthetic or petrochemical-derived polymers that are derived from natural ingredients, are easily biodegradable, and are biocompatible.

[0024] Also, in European Patent No. 1389459, a hydrophilic colloid composition derived from hydroxypropyl starch phosphate for improving the availability of active substances in cosmetics and dermatological preparations is described. That is, such hydroxypropyl starch is crosslinked by phosphate and is contained in the range of 0.1 to 10% by weight. This colloidal composition can be used alone or in combination with other hydrophilic colloids and is described as being particularly suitable for skin care applications.

[0025] Also, in the claims of U.S. Patent No. 7,361,363, a composition containing hydroxypropyl starch crosslinked by a phosphate bridge having a high glycerin content, potentially a fatty alcohol, and an additional surfactant, is described as a cosmetic composition having a "silky feel".

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0026]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Patent Document 4

Patent Document 5

Patent Document 6

Patent Document 7

Patent Document 8

Patent Document 9

Patent Document 10

Patent Document 11

Patent Document 12

Non-Patent Documents

[0027]

Non-Patent Document 1

Non-Patent Document 2

Non-Patent Document 3

Non-Patent Document 4

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0028] Thus, in summary, according to the present invention, for example, for the purpose of coating, highly dissolved starch or starch products can be beneficially provided by modified starch for even better processing.

[0029] And the starch called dissolved starch is often composed of highly swollen starch granule pieces, as well as microgels and partially dissolved starch polysaccharides, and is gelatinized starch. Also, the polysaccharides of dissolved starch may exist as a more or less trace fraction. Therefore, these aqueous starch dispersions have the drawback of phase separation and even show deterioration due to gel formation. That is, the best dissolution state of starch can be obtained by jet cooking or chemical modification at a temperature exceeding 120°C or a pH exceeding 12.

[0030] However, known chemically modified starches are poorly water-soluble and, without using a plasticizer, do not exhibit the beneficial property of forming a suitable film-like material and also have limitations in biodegradability. Furthermore, a preparation process of an aqueous dispersion using additional equipment at the place of use was also required. Therefore, although conventional aqueous dispersions can be mixed with various plant protection agents and stimulants, there is a problem that the coating and storage times are strictly limited.

[0031] Moreover, the replacement of synthetic polymers in commercially available aqueous plant protection dispersions and growth promotion dispersions also has the problem of involving the risk of use due to the dispersion preparation by additional equipment and the limitations of labor and storage stability.

[0032] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to efficiently provide, based on the development of an aqueous composition with excellent long-term stability suitable for forming a film-like material for coating leaves, seeds, roots, or soil, or other substances, and for modifying the properties of cosmetics. Moreover, the aqueous composition of the present invention is preferably biodegradable, and it is also an object of the present invention to provide an aqueous composition that exhibits such characteristics, its predetermined uses, and its method of use.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0033] According to the present invention, with respect to the total amount of starch (100% by weight), at least the amylose content is 30% by weight or more, and the weight average molar mass is in the range of 1×10 5 g / mol to 1×10 8 g / mol, preferably in the range of 1×10 5 g / mol to 4×10 7 g / mol. A composition (hereinafter, may be referred to as an aqueous composition, a starch composition, a formulation, etc.) characterized by containing hydroxyalkyl starch or a hydroxyalkyl starch fraction, etc., can be constituted and provided. Furthermore, such a composition is characterized by further containing at least one salt selected from alkali metal salts and / or alkaline earth metal salts and water.

[0034] In its general embodiment or one or more specific embodiments, the composition preferably has one or more of the following advantages. - Biodegradable. - High usability (can be used as it is). - Easy to handle. - Derived from modified starch having a high molar mass. - Mainly has neutral substituents. - Compatible with a variety of plant protection compounds and cosmetic ingredients in an aqueous system. - Can be prepared as an aqueous viscoelastic composition (formulation). - Has long-term stability of several weeks or more. - Has at least one or more of functional characteristics such as thickening property, viscosity adjustability, film-forming property, moisture retention property, barrier-forming property, moisture retention property, fixing property, and delayed transport property of added chemical and biological compounds.

[0035] Furthermore, in its general or one or more specific embodiments, the composition preferably has one or more of the following advantages (effects). - Hydroxyalkylation can improve the applicability of HAS. - Depending on the degree of substitution and the distribution of substituents of hydroxyalkylation, it is possible to provide a water-soluble starch and a polymer starch product in an amount as described below, preferably soluble in water at 25 °C. - It can be confirmed that hydroxyalkylation occurs without significant molecular degradation.

[0036] Also, in the conventional starch coating compositions of the prior art, such compositions contain a significant portion of swollen starch particles. The incorporation of these swollen starch particles can lead to phase separation and changes in viscosity. Another important issue is the processability of aqueous starch dispersions due to degradation. The present invention can preferably overcome these problems by mainly providing hydroxyalkyl starch or a hydroxyalkyl starch fraction in solution.

[0037] The present invention is also directed to aqueous compositions of polymer-modified starch, but is particularly beneficial in two main application areas. That is, the first field is mainly related to agriculture, orchards, seed treatment, vegetable gardens, foliage plants, lawns, landscape formation and protection, forestry, feeds, etc. Next, the second field focuses on using it as a component of cosmetics and personal care products.

[0038] The modified starch of the present invention shows compatibility or miscibility with various chemical and biological compounds, and these can be formulated or added at various concentrations. Therefore, the liquid starch composition containing the modified starch of the present invention can be used immediately at the site of use, is easy to handle, and further, can obtain long-term stable viscosity, co-emulsification, binding and adhesion properties. Moreover, the liquid starch composition of the present invention is characterized in that it has little need to use a plasticizer and can easily form a film-like material by dehydration or drying.

[0039] In addition, the aqueous liquid composition of the present invention can exhibit a predetermined effect, for example, in coating (coating treatment) of seeds, soil, plants or parts of plants, or animal feed, and in the use of a carrier (carrier matrix), a dust binder, and further a dust formation inhibitor. Furthermore, the modified starch composition of the present invention and the liquid composition containing the same are biocompatible components and are suitable as alternatives to synthetic additives in plant protection, fertilizers and cosmetics or personal care products.

[0040] In addition, the composition of the present invention not only has good thickening, viscosity adjustment, binding, adhesion, and co-emulsification properties, but also can easily and possibly form a film-like material without using a plasticizer, and moreover, has an advantage of having good compatibility with many chemical and biological substances. That is, the present invention discloses an aqueous non-degrading viscous composition having long-term stability, which is based on a modified starch polymer and a high amylose starch ether, most of which are uniformly modified.

[0041] Since the composition of the present invention is derived from a predetermined starch, it has the advantages of having a renewable origin, being inexpensive, being easily biodegradable, and having biocompatibility. More specifically, even when the composition is sprayed on plant parts and soil at a low concentration of 1 to 2 Uha, it can exhibit a surprising effect in agricultural applications. In addition, when plants are treated with a mixture of an aqueous starch ether formulation and a harmful plant protection product (PPP), such plants can exhibit a significantly reduced stress response. Furthermore, the obtained starch film (starch film) can reduce wash-off during rainfall and irrigation and can slowly release the PPP or stimulants contained in the starch film when wetted again. Therefore, PPP can be used more efficiently, and soil and groundwater pollution can be avoided or reduced. As a long-term effect, plants can be healthier, result in higher crop yields, and generally show stronger resilience to stress factors. Furthermore, the composition is also suitable for spraying on soil as a topsoil binder for reducing erosion by wind, rainfall, and irrigation. That is, as a hydrophilic polymer, the specified starch can enhance the water retention capacity of the soil, resulting in high water availability and improved drought stress, improved nutrient absorption by roots, and increased activity of microorganisms in the soil. Furthermore, the specified starch can act as a nutrient for bacteria and fungi, and thus can improve the biological activity of the microbiome, improve plant growth, and promote the biodegradation of synthetic chemicals sprayed on the soil. Also, in an embodiment of the present invention, the aqueous starch ether composition can be used as a carrier matrix for fertilizers, growth regulators, biostimulants, and plant strengtheners. Furthermore, additional uses of the present invention relate to promoting plant growth and landscape preservation in horticulture and suppressing dust in orchards or livestock farming. As a major difference from the prior art of modified starch, the aqueous high-amylose starch ether formulation presented in the present invention can be stably stored for up to 24 months while maintaining viscoelasticity, castable properties (coating properties), and the characteristics of being immediately usable and easy to handle. Therefore, in addition to a wide range of uses and embodiments in agriculture, horticulture, and landscape preservation, the modified HAS starch of the present invention can also meet special requirements in the fields of cosmetics and personal care products.

[0042] That is, the composition of the present invention is suitable as an alternative to polymers (microplastics, soluble plastics) derived from petrochemicals and synthetic materials due to its thickening property, viscosity adjustability, co-emulsifying property, moisturizing property, film-forming property, and compatibility with compounding ingredients in many cosmetics and personal care products.

[0043] In addition, by using hydroxyalkyl starch or a hydroxyalkyl starch fraction as a raw material for biodegradable polymers, the present invention can be one of the solutions to well-known problems in agriculture, such as low pesticide and fertilizer efficiency, environmental pollution, and increasing demand for agricultural land. That is, hydroxyalkyl starch or a hydroxyalkyl starch fraction has the advantages of being able to be manufactured at low cost and having biocompatibility and biodegradability. Therefore, these polymers have great potential, and their use in agriculture may increase significantly.

[0044] In addition, in applications such as foliar coating, soil coating, seed coating, root coating, dust suppression, personal care, and cosmetics, it has been found that the starch with the amylose content of the present invention is beneficial due to its film-forming ability.

[0045] In addition, the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction in the composition of the present invention is preferably non-granular and / or non-alpha starch (fraction). Based on this criterion, the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction can exhibit not only water dispersibility / swelling property but also better water miscibility or high solubility.

[0046] In addition, since the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction in the composition of the present invention can create a uniform mixed composition, it can also exhibit the effect of significantly improving film formation.

[0047] Furthermore, in order for the composition of the present invention to form a homogeneous layer on plants, roots, or soil, additives or additional polymers such as, for example, softeners, expensive natural polymers (e.g., guar gum), polyvinyl acetate, or synthetic polymers such as polyvinyl alcohol are not basically necessary, and it can be said that they can be omitted. Therefore, conversely, it can also be said that in the composition of the present invention, it is preferable to substantially contain no such additives or additional polymers.

[0048] Furthermore, it is preferable that the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction in the present invention is not further grafted with non-glucose monomers.

[0049] Furthermore, it is preferable that the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction of the present invention is not further grafted with synthetic monomers such as acrylic acid, acrylamide, methacrylic acid, acrylonitrile, etc. by radical polymerization. That is, this is because the biocompatibility and biodegradability may be reduced by such synthetic polymers.

[0050] Furthermore, the present invention can provide good castability (coating property), long-term applicability in viscoelasticity, homogeneous mixture and / or storage-stable composition.

[0051] Furthermore, the properties of the modified starch can be further adjusted by amylose / amylopectin content, average molecular weight, crosslinking, additional substituents (such as ethers and esters), and degree of substitution.

[0052] Therefore, in the field of cosmetics and the like, it can be said that the long-term viscoelastic properties of the modified starch, which is a starch formulation, exhibit particularly high importance.

[0053] Furthermore, one embodiment of the present invention is an aqueous composition that enables the application of a polymer dispersion for forming a film-like material containing a plant protection agent. This is an aqueous solution composition that forms a predetermined film layer on the leaf surface, reducing the washing-off of biological or chemical agents and exhibiting the further advantage of their slow release (sustained release). Therefore, the plant protection agent derived from the aqueous solution composition of the present invention can be used more efficiently, the required amount can be reduced in the case of chemical protection agents, and thus environmental pollution can be reduced.

[0054] Moreover, it can be said that the applicability of the aqueous solution composition of the present invention is extremely wide. In particular, in the case of agricultural chemicals and biological substances, it is also suitable for coating seeds, soil, plants or plant parts for use as a carrier, and for use as components of cosmetics and personal care products. Therefore, even if the examples etc. focus on a specific use, based on the description of such examples etc., the application fields and configurations of the aqueous solution composition are not restricted without particular reason.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0055]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0056] In this specification, when a numerical value or a term is indicated by the phrase "about", basically, this includes the exact numerical value or at least the term indicating the exact numerical value. For example, the indication "about 1" includes exactly 1, and furthermore, the term "about 1" has a broad meaning that includes "1".

[0057] Also, in this specification, when only hydroxyalkyl starch is described, this term includes the hydroxyalkyl starch fraction as well, unless otherwise specified. Also, in this case, it may be expressed as hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction.

[0058] Also, the composition of the present invention is characterized by being an aqueous composition (aqueous formulation) and has suitable properties.

[0059] Also, the salt contained in the composition of the present invention is preferably at least partially or completely dissolved in water.

[0060] Also, the amylose content is related to the total weight (total mass) of the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction, and is preferably on a dry matter basis (solid content basis).

[0061] Furthermore, the amylose content is more preferably measured in the raw starch or raw starch fraction, that is, the starch or starch fraction before functionalization with a hydroxyalkyl group, and is even more preferably on a dry matter basis. However, it has been found that this value does not differ from the amylose content related to the total mass of the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction, preferably on a dry matter basis.

[0062] Furthermore, the weight-average molar mass relates to hydroxyalkyl starch or a hydroxyalkyl starch fraction, i.e., starch or a starch fraction after being functionalized with a hydroxyalkyl group.

[0063] Furthermore, regarding the upper limit of the amylose content, it is preferably 99% by weight, more preferably 95% by weight, and still more preferably 90% by weight based on the total amount.

[0064] Furthermore, the weight-average molar mass preferably depends on the amylose content. That is, for example, when the amylose content is high, such as 99% by weight, the substance is a starch fraction mainly composed of amylose. The higher the amylose content, the lower the molar mass is preferably, and the lower limit of the weight-average molar mass is about 10 5 g / mol, which is preferably the weight-average molar mass of pure or isolated hydroxyalkylated amylose.

[0065] When the amylopectin content increases, it is preferable to increase the weight-average molar mass, and it is preferably increased until it reaches an upper limit of 1×10 8 g / mol or 4×10 7 g / mol. At this time, the starch becomes hydroxyalkylated high-amylose starch.

[0066] Starches having an amylose content of at least 30% by weight or more based on the total amount of starch (100% by weight) are known from the prior art and are commercially available. All available starches having an amylose content of at least 30% by weight or more can be said to be suitable for the optimization of a specific etherification process depending on the type of starch due to the variation in amylose content, granule structure, and accompanying substances.

[0067] Another upper limit of the weight-average molar mass can be combined with any of the indicated lower limits, but is 5×10 7 g / mol.

[0068] In the composition of the present invention, it is also preferable that the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction is mainly dissolved and present. Dissolution preferably means being molecularly and uniformly dispersed. Therefore, preferably, based on the total mass of the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction in the composition of the present invention, more preferably based on the dry matter of the starch / fraction, 50% by weight or more, or more than 50% by weight of the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction is dissolved. Furthermore, it is more preferable that at least 60% by weight or more, at least 70% by weight or more, at least 80% by weight or more, at least 90% by weight or more, or at least 95% by weight or more of the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction is dissolved with respect to the total amount of the composition. Also, in the composition of the present invention, a part of the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction may be the remaining undissolved starch or starch fraction, and a colloidal form (such as microgel) and / or a swollen particle form is preferable, but more preferably it exists in a colloidal form.

[0069] The composition of the present invention is a liquid composition, and hereinafter may be referred to as a liquid formulation or simply a formulation. Therefore, the liquid composition can be completely miscible with water in any ratio.

[0070] Also, the salt can further act as a liquid fertilizer and / or a pH buffering substance.

[0071] Also, the liquid composition of the present invention can form a film-like material after being partially dried. The film-like substances and products obtained or obtainable by the composition of the present invention have been found to exhibit excellent film-forming properties.

[0072] Moreover, it is preferable that the composition of the present invention and the formed film-like substances obtained from the composition substantially do not contain non-biodegradable chemical additives or plasticizers.

[0073] Moreover, the composition of the present invention and the formed film-like substances obtained from the composition may be partially biodegradable, but more preferably are completely biodegradable.

[0074] Moreover, it is preferable that the composition of the present invention has co-emulsifying properties. Therefore, fatty acids without adding surfactants can achieve compatibility up to at least 15% by volume of the aqueous composition. And it has been found that the chemical composition of such fatty acids affects the miscibility with the aqueous composition.

[0075] Moreover, the liquid composition which is the composition of the present invention is preferably mixed with an active substance (also called an active ingredient) that can be applied to plants, plant parts, seeds or soil, similar to cosmetics and plant care products.

[0076] Moreover, the liquid composition is preferably used together with the active substance, that is, in a state where the active substance is contained in the composition.

[0077] Moreover, the liquid composition is preferably used in the fields of agriculture (plant production, lawns, orchards, farms, special cultivation, flowers, etc.), forestry, greenhouses, home gardens, nurseries, indoor agriculture, livestock, cosmetics, and personal care.

[0078] This liquid composition is particularly suitable for use as a carrier for plant protection agents and plant growth agents and as a single biostimulant in seed coating, seed pelleting, soil coating, dust reduction (exemplary uses are feed, breeding farms, orchids, mining), anti-leaching agents, plant coating, foliar coating, root coating, fruit coating, and vegetable coating. Generally, such liquid compositions can be applied to anything that requires coating or granulation and to all processes and compositions.

[0079] In a preferred sense, seed pelleting means a process of coating small or irregularly shaped seeds with an inert substance to make them round and uniform. In a preferred sense, seed coating means a thicker coating form of seeds and can include fertilizers, growth promoters, and / or seed treatments, similar to an inert carrier and a polymer outer shell.

[0080] In the present invention, when the base starch is derived from high amylose starch groups and the amylose content is 30% by weight or more, preferably at least 50% by weight or more based on the total amount of starch (100% by weight), advantageous results can be obtained. That is, a very low proportion of poorly soluble components is obtained by hydroxyalkylation, preferably under mild conditions.

[0081] After hydroxyalkylation, the starch derivative is preferably obtained in an amorphous, non-decomposed, molecular and / or colloidal dispersed state.

[0082] The composition of the present invention can be obtained as an aqueous composition exhibiting viscoelastic behavior. Such a composition preferably has long-term stability. On the other hand, the starch in the composition is not decomposed and exhibits an excellent long-term persistent solution state. Also, the composition can be further processed by known processes such as spraying, spreading, and casting.

[0083] The liquid composition of the present invention can be easily mixed with water at any ratio, i.e., without phase separation. In other words, the liquid composition of the present invention is completely or almost completely water-soluble at any ratio.

[0084] The viscosity of the liquid composition of the present invention depends on the concentration of the modified starch and the component content, and tends to decrease as the water content increases. That is, the dynamic viscosity is usually in the range of 0.1 to 2.5 Pa·s under the measurement conditions of 25°C and a shear rate of 30 seconds. Note that the method for measuring the dynamic viscosity is described in detail in the Examples section.

[0085] In addition, the liquid composition can exhibit excellent film-forming properties without substantially adding a plasticizer such as glycerol, sorbitol, polyethylene glycol, or glucose. Therefore, the liquid composition of the present invention can be used as an aqueous component in a mixture or can be used alone as a non-mixture.

[0086] The composition of the present invention can exhibit reversible water solubility. That is, for the purpose of preparing an aqueous solution, it is also preferable to dry and rehydrate the composition.

[0087] In addition, the composition can act as a sustained-release matrix. That is, when an active substance such as a pesticide, a plant enhancer, or a cosmetic ingredient is contained in the composition, it can be gradually released over a predetermined time as a sustained-release property.

[0088] In addition, the liquid composition preferably has a particularly low salt content and is used in cosmetics and personal care products. The composition of the present invention, or the film-like material obtained from the composition, can be used as, or for, cosmetics or personal care products, and is preferably used as at least one of a thickener, co-emulsifier, film-forming agent, wetting agent, adhesive, protective barrier agent, and viscosity modifier.

[0089] Also, etherification is a preferred starch modification method of the present invention. The basic methods are described in Rutenberg, M., W. and Solarek, D.'s "Starch Derivatives, Production and Use" as a reference document, pages 343 - 349 of the book "Starch: Chemistry and Technology" (edited by Whister, L.) (1984) and the publication of Roth, W. B., Mehltretter, C. L., "Some Properties of Hydroxypropylated Amylomized Starch Films", Food Technol. Vol. 21, pages 72 - 74 (1967). The hydroxyalkylated, more preferably hydroxypropylated starch prepared by these methods can be dispersed in water at room temperature or by jet cooking.

[0090] Also, it can be said that the film properties of the undegraded hydroxyalkylated starch dissolved in water in the composition of the present invention are affected by the amylose content and the type of starch used. On the other hand, a high numerical value can be said to be preferable because it gives a more flexible film and high mechanical strength. Another additional factor involved in good film formation and long-term viscosity stability is the type of substituent, the optimal MS value, and the distribution of substituents along the carbohydrate backbone, where high uniformity results in better film formation and longer stability. Therefore, in the present invention, when the amylose content is low, it is not always necessary to use a plasticizer or other synthetic or biopolymer additives to assist film formation or to assist in forming a film with reduced brittleness.

[0091] Moreover, according to the present invention, it overcomes the problems of native starch. That is, in the case of film formation, it has been found that native starch is applicable only under the preconditions of complete dissolution of starch by pressure cooking at a temperature higher than 110°C and treatment of the starch solution at a relatively high temperature due to deterioration. That is, gelatinized starch obtained by subjecting starch to high-temperature treatment in water is a non-uniform aqueous dispersion in which the starch is only partially dissolved and the proportion of the supramolecular structure is relatively high.

[0092] The present invention enables a degree of substitution having a substantially uniform distribution of substituents in the linear polysaccharide chain and the side chains outside the branched polysaccharide. This chemical structure is beneficial for preventing deterioration and phase separation in an aqueous system of the modified starch product and obtaining a long-term stable viscosity. Such a degree of substitution can be adjusted according to the type of starch and the amylose content. In this sense, it is possible to develop the main component in an aqueous modified starch composition having long-term stability of rheological properties. Specific determination methods will be described in detail in the Examples section. Therefore, the present invention provides a predetermined composition in which hydroxyalkyl starch or a hydroxyalkyl starch fraction is substantially uniformly substituted.

[0093] Also, the amylose content was measured by an electric current measurement method. The specific method will be described in detail in the Examples section.

[0094] Also, the alkyl moiety in the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction is preferably at least one selected from a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl (n-propyl or isopropyl) group, and a butyl (n-butyl, isobutyl, tert-butyl) group. A highly suitable hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction is hydroxypropyl starch or a hydroxypropyl starch fraction, where the propyl group is more preferably an n-propyl group.

[0095] In addition, in one embodiment of the composition of the present invention, the content of the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction in the composition is preferably a value within the range of about 5 to about 25% by weight based on the total amount (100% by weight) of the composition. Furthermore, it is more preferable that the content of the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction in such a composition is any one of a value within the range of about 5 to 20% by weight, a value within the range of 7 to 15% by weight, or further, a value within the range of 8 to 12% by weight.

[0096] In addition, in one embodiment of the composition of the present invention, the salt content is preferably a value within the range of 0.01 to about 10% by weight based on the total amount (100% by weight) of the composition. Furthermore, it is more preferable that the salt content in such a composition is any one of a value within the range of 0.02 to about 10% by weight, a value within the range of 0.05 to about 10% by weight, or a value within the range of 0.05 to 8% by weight.

[0097] When such a composition of the present invention is used in the agricultural field, the salt content is preferably a value within the range of about 2 to 10% by weight, more preferably a value within the range of 5 to 9% by weight, and even more preferably a value within the range of 6 to 8% by weight.

[0098] In addition, when the composition of the present invention is used for cosmetics and personal care applications, the salt content is preferably a value within the range of about 0.01 to 10% by weight, more preferably a value within the range of 0.01 to 5% by weight, and even more preferably a value within the range of 0.01 to 2% by weight.

[0099] Further, in one embodiment of the composition of the present invention, the modified starch preferably has a molar substitution degree (MS) in the range of 0.05 to about 0.8, more preferably has a molar substitution degree (MS) in the range of about 0.2 to about 0.7, and even more preferably has a molar substitution degree (MS) in the range of 0.3 to 0.6. The value of this molar substitution degree (MS) is preferably adjusted according to the amylose content of the raw starch or fraction. The specific measurement method will be described in detail in the Examples section. Also, MS relates to all replaceable hydroxy groups, particularly those at the C2, C3, and C6 positions of the anhydroglucose unit, and further relates to the hydroxy groups contained in the substituent. Therefore, MS includes one or more additional alkylene oxide moieties bonded to the hydroxy group of the functional group (which is bonded to C2, C3, or C6 of the anhydroglucose unit). That is, MS reflects the average number of moles of alkylene oxide directly and indirectly bonded to the anhydroglucose unit.

[0100] Also, the degree of substitution (DS) relates only to the ether groups introduced at the C2, C3, or C6 positions of the anhydroglucose unit. Such DS reflects the number average of the substituted hydroxy groups in the anhydroglucose unit. Therefore, it can be said that DS does not include the indirectly bonded alkylene oxide moiety as compared with MS.

[0101] Also, when the starch is uniformly substituted, according to the determined degree of substitution DS, the anhydroglucose unit will have a substituent with a statistical value. For example, when DS = 1, all anhydroglucose units will have one substituent. Also, when DS = 0.5, every two glucose units will have one substituent, that is, 50% of the pyranose rings will be substituted and 50% will not be substituted. Furthermore, in the case of non-uniform substitution, some of the pyranose rings have one or more substituents (disubstituted or trisubstituted) within the ring. That is, when DS = 0.5 after complete hydrolysis of the starch polymer, 50% (very uniform substitution) or more than 50% (the larger the value, the more heterogeneous the substitution) of unsubstituted glucose is found as an additional feature.

[0102] Also, the value of the degree of substitution (DS) is preferably in the range of 20 to 90% of the value of the molar degree of substitution (MS). And such DS is preferably determined by synthesis conditions such as excess alkylene oxide, pH value, temperature, starch concentration, reaction time, etc. Therefore, DS is preferably any value in the range of about 0.01 to about 0.72, about 0.04 to about 0.63, about 0.06 to about 0.54, about 0.025 to about 0.6, about 0.1 to about 0.5, about 0.15 to about 0.4, or about 0.1 to about 0.5.

[0103] Also, the proportion of unsubstituted glucose units in the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction in the composition of the present invention is preferably 1 - DS. Therefore, the proportion of unsubstituted glucose units in the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction is preferably a value in the range of 0.4 to 0.975, more preferably a value in the range of 0.5 to 0.9, and even more preferably a value in the range of 0.6 to 0.85. These values can be expressed as percentages and can also be expressed as MS and DS by multiplying by 100.

[0104] In one embodiment of the composition of the present invention, the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction preferably has a mainly non-granular amorphous structure. The term "predominantly" means that at least 95% by weight of the starch or starch fraction, preferably based on the dry matter of the starch / fraction, in relation to the total mass of the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction in the composition of the present invention, has a non-granular amorphous structure.

[0105] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the composition of the present invention, the salt preferably has a chalcogen or pnictogen containing an anion.

[0106] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the composition of the present invention, the anion is preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of phosphate, hydrogen phosphate, sulfate, hydrogen sulfate, or acetate.

[0107] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the composition of the present invention, the salt is preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of sodium dihydrogen phosphate, disodium hydrogen phosphate, sodium phosphate, sodium hydrogen sulfate, sodium sulfate, potassium dihydrogen phosphate, dipotassium hydrogen phosphate, potassium phosphate, potassium hydrogen sulfate, sodium acetate, potassium acetate, calcium acetate.

[0108] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the composition of the present invention, the composition further comprises at least one component selected from the group consisting of terpenes, humic substances, pesticides, biostimulants, plant fortifiers, or preservatives, and preferably further comprises a preservative having the ability to avoid the activities of microorganisms and fungi.

[0109] Furthermore, the content of a predetermined component in the composition of the present invention is preferably a value within the range of 0.001 to 10% by weight based on the total amount (100% by weight) of the liquid composition. And with respect to the content of the predetermined component, it is more preferably any one of the values within the range of 0.001 to 5% by weight, the values within the range of 0.001 to 2% by weight, the values within the range of 0.001 to 1% by weight, and further preferably the values within the range of 0.001 to 0.1% by weight.

[0110] In the present invention, the agricultural chemical is preferably at least one selected from fertilizers, plant protection agents, and plant growth regulators.

[0111] Also, it is also preferable that the plant protection product contains at least one of agricultural chemicals, herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, bactericides, acaricides, nematicides, or molluscicides.

[0112] Also, the plant protection products suitable for the present invention, particularly single active ingredients or combined active ingredients, are not particularly limited to a specific amount without reason, but are preferably the components listed below, and when referring to the entire list, it shall be incorporated by reference in the present invention. "List of Approved Plant Protection Products in Germany with Information on Revoked Approvals" by the Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety of the Federal Republic of Germany (Date: January 2020) This list can be obtained electronically from www.bvl.bund.de / infoppp (select the link "Brief List of Plant Protection Products (January 2020)" on the English-language page as of February 28, 2020) or www.bvl.bundde / infopsm (select the link "Overview List of Approved Plant Protection Products in Germany and Information on End of Approval (January 2020)" on the German-language page as of February 28, 2020).

[0113] As plant protection products of the present invention, particularly suitable herbicides are shown in the following table.

[0114]

Table 1

[0115]

Table 2

[0116]

Table 3

[0117] Furthermore, the plant protection product is preferably a plant protection product derived from natural substances.

[0118] Furthermore, the fertilizer is preferably a synthetic fertilizer and is also preferably a fertilizer derived from organic matter.

[0119] Furthermore, the composition containing terpenoids preferably has the ability to avoid the activity of microorganisms. Such terpenoids are preferably monoterpenoids, and more preferably geraniol. And the content of terpenoids is preferably a value within the range of about 0.05 to 0.2% by weight, and more preferably a value within the range of about 0.05 to 0.15% by weight, based on the total amount of the composition.

[0120] Furthermore, the biostimulant is preferably at least one compound selected from the group consisting of amino acids, peptides, antioxidants, or products from microbial fermentation and algae.

[0121] Furthermore, it is also preferable to further dilute the composition of the present invention with an aqueous solvent in some cases. Furthermore, it is also preferable to dilute the composition of the present invention together with at least one compound selected from terpenoids, humins, pesticides, biostimulants or plant strengtheners.

[0122] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, it is also preferable that the composition of the present invention does not substantially contain a plasticizer.

[0123] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, it is also preferable that the composition of the present invention does not substantially contain non-biodegradable additives.

[0124] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, it is preferable that the composition of the present invention is biodegradable, and more preferably completely (100%) biodegradable.

[0125] Further, in one embodiment of the present invention, the composition of the present invention preferably contains a preservative having the ability to avoid the activities of microorganisms and fungi. The preservative is preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of medium-chain or long-chain carboxylic acids and carboxylates, vegetable oils, essential oils, sorbic acid and sorbates, benzoic acid and benzoates, chitosan, isothiazolinone, and benzisothiazolinone. Moreover, its content is preferably a value within the range of about 0.01 to 0.3% by weight, more preferably a value within the range of about 0.01 to 0.15% by weight, based on the total amount of the composition.

[0126] Further, in one embodiment of the present invention, the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction is preferably crosslinked. Such crosslinking can be used to adjust the viscosity and is particularly suitable for use in the field of cosmetics. And useful crosslinking agents include the following compounds and the like. For example, low molecular weight aldehydes, dialdehydes, ketones, diketones, oxidizing agents such as formaldehyde, glyoxal, glutaraldehyde, pyruvic acid; organic polybasic acid chlorides and their derivatives such as pyruvic acid, glutaric acid, citric acid, adipic acid, malonic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid; inorganic crosslinking reagents, inorganic polybasic acids, alkali - hypochlorous acid (containing chlorine in basic medium), phosgene, phosphorus oxychloride, polyphosphoric acid, alkali - trimeta - phosphoric acid, polyfunctional silanes; epoxy compounds and their derivatives such as epichlorohydrin, derivatives of epichlorohydrin, monofunctional and polyfunctional glycidyl ethers, epoxy halides, substituted epoxides, polyepoxides, their reactive oligomers and polymers; aliphatic dihalides such as diethylene glycol dichloride, triethylene glycol dichloride, substituted polyethylene glycol; grafting reagents such as derivatives of acrylic acid, substituted acrylates, vinyl group - containing compounds, aldehyde - amide - condensates, N,N,-dimethylol - imidazolidone - 2 (DMEU), cyanuric chloride, biphenyl compounds, oxidized mono, di and oligosaccharides, any kind of boronic acid ester crosslinking, for example, radical - mediated crosslinking, polymerization of double bonds, etc., which are at least one of grafting reagents that can further react to crosslink. And further variations of physically induced crosslinking are preferably by thermal processes (without water) including melting, hydrothermal processes (hot water treatment), compounding, freeze - thaw processes. However, for hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fractions, for the general purposes of the present invention, the need to be crosslinked is not necessarily required.

[0127] Also, in one embodiment of the present invention, the hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction preferably has at least one additional substituent or modification. This means substituents other than hydroxyalkyl groups, or modifications other than hydroxyalkylation. In the case of additional substituents such as viscosity, film-forming properties, water solubility, gelling properties, water retention, ionic bonding, introduced charge, hydrophobicity, and hydrophilicity, the properties in agricultural applications and cosmetics can be adjusted. Useful substituents / modifications include any kind of ester, ether, for example, alkyl carboxylic acid, alkyl carboxylate, alkyl ester, alkyl ether, hydroxyalkyl, etc., an alkyl group bonded to starch as an ether having an additional functional group or heteroatom (sulfur, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, boron) in the carbon chain, carbamoylalkyl, starch oxide, reduced product of starch, alkylamine, quaternary amine, quaternary alkylamine, alkylamide, alkylnitrile, carbamate, carbonate, alkylthiol, for example, any kind of inorganic group such as phosphate, sulfate, silane, silanol, siloxane, silyl ether, nitro group, thione, sulfide, sulfoxide, xanthate thiocarbamate, aldehyde, thioaldehyde, urea, guanidinium group, carbonyl, alkylcarbonyl, halogenated alkyl, for example, any kind of grafting agent such as an acrylic acid derivative, substituted acrylate, a compound containing a vinyl group, an aldehyde-amide condensate, for example, at least one of radical grafting agents. However, hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fractions do not necessarily need to have additional types of substituents for the general purposes of the present invention.

[0128] In a further embodiment, the present invention provides a film-like material comprising a hydroxyalkyl starch or hydroxyalkyl starch fraction having an amylose content of at least 30% by weight and a weight-average molar mass in the range of 1×10 5 g / mol to 1×10 8 g / mol, preferably in the range of 1×10 5 g / mol to 4×10 7 g / mol, based on the total amount of starch (100% by weight), and at least one salt selected from alkali metal salts and / or alkaline earth metal salts. Such a film-like material can be obtained by at least partially drying the composition of the present invention. That is, the film-like material derived from the composition of the present invention is preferably completely or substantially dried.

[0129] The present invention also provides a method for producing the above film-like material, which includes applying the composition of the present invention onto a substrate and at least partially drying the composition to form a film.

[0130] And the film-like material is usually preferably formed on the substrate. Such a forming method can further include separating the film from the substrate. The separation can be performed, for example, by peeling, cutting, or stripping.

[0131] Also, in one embodiment, the application of the composition of the present invention can be performed by spraying, scattering, dipping, or casting.

[0132] Also, the substrate is preferably any substance disclosed in the present application as a substance on which a film exists or is formed, or a substance on which a coating exists or is formed, and the coating is preferably a film. Also, in one embodiment, the substrate is preferably at least one selected from seeds, soil, plants, or parts of plants, growth media, or animal feeds. The present invention can also provide a product including a film and a substrate. In such a product, the film is formed or disposed on the substrate. Also, the drying or partial drying can be performed by (partially) evaporating the water contained in the composition of the present invention.

[0133] Also, in one embodiment of the present invention, the drying can be performed in any gas atmosphere. Also, it is preferable to use any suitable gas or gas mixture. Further, the drying is preferably carried out particularly in the atmosphere. Furthermore, such drying is preferably carried out regardless of the presence or absence of convection of the ambient atmosphere.

[0134] Also, in one embodiment of the present invention, the drying is preferably carried out in a temperature range of any one of 2 to 60 °C, 2 to 50 °C, 2 to 40 °C, or 2 to 30 °C. In addition, any other lower limit that can be combined with any of the above upper limits is preferably any one of 3 °C, 4 °C, 5 °C, 6 °C, 7 °C, 8 °C, 9 °C, or 10 °C.

[0135] Also, in one embodiment of the present invention, the drying is preferably carried out at atmospheric pressure. That is, in one embodiment, the drying is preferably carried out at a pressure in the range of 0.4 bar to 1.070 bar (0.4×10 5 Pa to 1.070×10 5 Pa).

[0136] Here, "substantially dried" means that the moisture content relative to the weight of the dry composition of the film is about 15% by weight or less, or the moisture content is 5% by weight or less, more preferably 3% by weight or less. Also, the moisture content is preferably measured at an air temperature of 25 °C and a relative humidity of 50%.

[0137] Regarding the components of the film or coating described below, refer to the disclosure of the above composition. Components identical to the composition can be included in the film or coating.

[0138] In yet another aspect, the present invention is a seed, soil, plant, or part of a plant, or animal feed that has been subjected to a coating treatment. That is, the coating treatment has an amylose content of at least 30% by weight or more based on the total amount of starch (100% by weight), and the weight average molar mass is about 1×10 5 g / mol to about 1×10 8 g / mol, preferably about 1×105 g / mol to about 4 × 10 7 It relies on a composition comprising a hydroxyalkyl starch or a hydroxyalkyl starch fraction having a value within the range of g / mol to about 4 × 10 g / mol and at least one salt selected from alkali metal salts and / or alkaline earth metal salts. Therefore, the coating as a coating treatment using it is preferably obtained from the composition as described above, the composition is preferably at least partially dried, and the coating is preferably a film-like material as described above.

[0139] The present invention provides a method for coating seeds, soil, plants, parts of plants, or animal feed, and the method preferably includes the following steps. - A step of applying the predetermined composition of the present invention to seeds, soil, plants, or parts of plants, or animal feed - A step of at least partially drying the composition to form a coating on seeds, soil, plants, parts of plants, or animal feed

[0140] Also, in one embodiment of the present invention, the application of the composition of the present invention is preferably carried out by spraying, scattering, dipping, or casting.

[0141] Also, drying or partial drying is preferably carried out by (partially) evaporating the water contained in the composition of the present invention.

[0142] Also, in one embodiment of the present invention, drying is preferably carried out in any gas atmosphere. And it is preferable to use any appropriate gas or gas mixture. Also, drying is particularly preferably carried out in the atmosphere. And such drying is preferably carried out regardless of the presence or absence of convection of the surrounding atmosphere.

[0143] Also, in one embodiment of the present invention, drying is preferably carried out in any of the temperature ranges of 2 to 60°C, 2 to 50°C, 2 to 40°C, or 2 to 30°C. And other lower limits that can be combined with any of the above upper limits are any of 3°C, 4°C, 5°C, 6°C, 7°C, 8°C, 9°C, or 10°C.

[0144] Also, in one embodiment of the present invention, drying of the composition of the present invention is preferably carried out at atmospheric pressure. That is, such drying is preferably carried out at a pressure within the range of 0.4 bar to 1.070 bar (0.4×10 5 Pa to 1.070×10 5 Pa).

[0145] Also, the coating (coating treatment) formed coating is preferably a film-like material as described above. And such coating is carried out on a composition containing a hydroxyalkyl starch or a hydroxyalkyl starch fraction having an amylose content of at least 30% by weight and a weight average molar mass in the range of about 1×10 5 g / mol to about 1×10 8 g / mol, preferably in the range of about 1×10 5 g / mol to about 4×10 7 g / mol, and may also mean a film-like material formed therefrom. Also, such coating is preferably carried out on a composition containing at least one salt selected from the group consisting of alkali metal salts and / or alkaline earth metal salts.

[0146] Also, in one embodiment of the present invention, the coating contains a component selected from pesticides, biostimulants, or plant fortifiers, and the component is preferably contained in the coating, particularly encapsulated, or adhered to the coating which is a coating formed by coating treatment. The film-like material by such coating can be obtained from the composition of the present invention containing the predetermined component.

[0147] In a further embodiment, the invention is directed to the use of the composition of the invention, or a film-like material derived from the composition of the invention, for coating seeds, soil, growth media, plants, or parts of plants, in particular for coating the surface of a plant or a part of a plant or for coating animal feed. That is, the invention provides a method of use for the composition of the invention or a film-like material derived therefrom, which is to apply the composition of the invention or a film-like material derived therefrom to seeds, soil, growth media, plants, or parts of plants, in particular to the surface of a plant or a part of a plant, or to animal feed.

[0148] Here, the coating may mean a coating with the composition of the invention, a coating in a state where the composition of the invention is partially or completely dried, or a coating formed by coating with the film-like material of the invention. When the coating is the film-like material of the invention, such a coating is preferably derived from the composition of the invention that has been at least partially dried after application to the surface or article to be coated. Also, the coating, particularly the coating for seeds, is preferably carried out after treatment with an active substance, and is preferably carried out in combination when applying an active substance such as a pesticide.

[0149] Also, the composition of the invention, or a film-like material derived therefrom, is preferably applied to seeds as a film-forming binder for forming a film-like material. Other purposes for coating seeds include covering with a film, pelletizing for binding, fixing substances selected from pesticides, inoculants, and biostimulants to the seed surface, or improving germination. The composition of the invention, or a film-like material derived therefrom, is preferably used to coat seeds that have been treated with a substance, particularly a pesticide, before coating. This also applies to the seeds of the present invention.

[0150] Furthermore, in all forms of seed coating, such as film coating, coating with a shell, and pelletization, the formed starch film can improve the fixation and binding of active substances applied to the seed surface, such as pesticides, especially insecticides, fertilizers, or biostimulants. The formation of dust, abrasion, and diffusion of such substances in the environment can be reduced by the composition or film of the present invention.

[0151] Moreover, when seeds are coated with the composition of the present invention or a liquid composition, the water retention and germination can be improved even when no active substances or predetermined components are further included.

[0152] Furthermore, the composition of the present invention or a film-like material derived therefrom is preferably used for soil coating, especially for reducing or preventing erosion, or for reducing the leaching of organic matter (preferably humus soil), clay silt, or sand. The substance is preferably bound or fixed to the soil by the composition of the present invention or a film-like material derived from the composition of the present invention. Moreover, it is preferable to perform the soil coating before treating with pesticides. The composition of the present invention or a film-like material derived therefrom is preferably used for soil binding. That is, for example, it is preferably used to prevent the elution of active substances such as pesticides, especially fertilizers or insecticides from the soil, more specifically the topsoil. Furthermore, in order to improve the water retention of the soil, it is preferable to perform soil coating with the composition of the present invention or a film-like material derived therefrom. When the composition of the present invention or a film-like material derived therefrom applied to the soil contains a pesticide, the applied pesticide, especially the applied insecticide, remains in the topsoil layer for a long time, which is advantageous for biodegradation by microorganisms and can reduce groundwater pollution. This also applies to the soil of the present invention in the same manner.

[0153] Furthermore, when humic substances such as humic acid, fulvic acid, and humates are added as part of the composition to sandy soil, it can be said to be preferable because it improves the availability and uptake of nutrients and minerals by plant roots, as well as water retention (Reference: A. Noroozisharaf, M. Kaviani, Physiol Mol Biol Plants 24, 423-431 (2018)).

[0154] Furthermore, a part of the plant is preferably selected from at least one of, for example, leaves, flower of fruit, flower, stem, fruit, root, ear, nogi, grain, corn kernel, or root.

[0155] Furthermore, the plant is preferably selected from at least one of crop plants, grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, fiber crops such as cotton, spice plants, grasses, turf, timber plants, medicinal plants, foliage plants, shrubs, and horticultural plants.

[0156] Furthermore, specifically, the plant is at least one selected from wheat, barley, rye, oats, corn, rice, soybeans, canola, sugarcane, potatoes, sugar beets, manioc, watermelons, bananas, sweet potatoes, millet, onions, cucumbers, lettuce, tomatoes, carrots, cabbages, Brussels sprouts, cauliflowers, broccoli, kale, kohlrabi, cabbages, Chinese broccoli, collard greens, turnips, Chinese cabbages, napa cabbages, bok choy, radishes, daikon radishes, seed tubers, parsnips, beets, sea beets, Swiss chards, sugar beets, beans, eggplants, pumpkins, squashes, marrows, zucchinis, gourds, garlic, spinach, yams, cassavas, apples, pears, cherries, oranges, lemons, pineapples, coffee, black tea, cocoa, tobacco, peanuts, walnuts, olives, etc., ryegrass, alfalfa, etc., lentils, etc., roses and all other flowers, etc.

[0157] And specific plants suitable for the present invention are described in the following articles, and by referring to these, they can be incorporated into the present invention. https: / / de.wikipedia.org / wiki / Liste_von_Nutzpfianzen (version of January 14, 2020); https: / / en.wikipedia.orq / wiki / List of domesticated plants (version of January 14, 2020); https: / / en.wikipediaorq / wiki / List of culinarv fruits (version of January 14, 2020);https: / / de.wikipedia.org / wiki / Liste der Obstarten (version of January 14, 2020); https: / / de wikipediaorq / wiki / Liste der Gemuese (version of January 14, 2020); https: / / en.wikipediaorq / wiki / List of vegetables (version of January 14, 2020) grasses, shrubs, trees / forestry, ornamentals, garden plants

[0158] Furthermore, the composition of the present invention, or a film-like material derived therefrom, is preferably used as a foliar coating for reducing the washing-off from active substances such as agricultural chemicals, particularly insecticides or fertilizers, preferably foliar fertilizers. For example, it is preferable to form a starch film by mixing the aqueous composition of the present invention with an active substance (for example, a plant protection agent such as a fungicide, an insecticide, a bactericide, and a herbicide, or a fertilizer, preferably a foliar fertilizer) and applying them together to the leaves. That is, the starch film formed after drying reduces the washing-off, reduces unnecessary washing-off, and the active substance (also referred to as the active ingredient) remains at its action site, avoiding early soil contamination. Therefore, according to the aqueous composition of the present invention, it is possible to reduce the unnecessary contamination of soil and groundwater due to the washing-off of plants, particularly active substances applied to the leaves, particularly insecticides or fertilizers.

[0159] Furthermore, the root coating preferably has, or is performed for, the effect of improving water retention including water availability, water use efficiency, and water uptake. By applying the composition of the present invention or a film-like material derived therefrom to the roots, it is possible to improve water retention, root growth, storage stability, nutrient absorption, and / or the fixation and binding of the applied pesticide, applied biostimulant, applied microorganism, and / or applied root growth promoter to the root surface.

[0160] The coating of fruits and vegetables preferably has, or is performed for, the effect of avoiding osmotic rupture (hood cracking) during rainfall. Therefore, the composition of the present invention or a film-like material derived therefrom can be used as a protective film for reducing the rupture (hood cracking) of fruits and vegetables due to an increase in osmotic pressure during rainfall.

[0161] The composition of the present invention or a film-like material derived therefrom can be used as a coating for ears and corn kernels, particularly in monocotyledonous plants such as Gramineae, and preferably in many other plants with intense seed scattering. This is because it can exert the effect that the loss of seeds before harvest due to the influence of wind and rain can be reduced or avoided.

[0162] In this regard, the composition of the present invention or a film-like material derived therefrom can be used as a binder for ears, corn kernels, and seeds.

[0163] Furthermore, the composition of the present invention or a film-like material derived therefrom is preferably applied to animal feed as a binder. Such a binder is preferably a natural product, harmless, and edible. Here, the composition of the present invention or a film-like material derived therefrom is preferably used to improve wear resistance and thus reduce dust. Since most of the products used in the animal feed industry are in powder form, the present invention can reduce exposure to dust derived from raw materials of animal feed. Many of them contain chemicals, and biological agents have both acute and long-term toxic effects, such as skin and respiratory sensitization.

[0164] In a further aspect, it is directed to the use of the composition of the present invention, or a film-like material derived from the composition of the present invention, as a carrier for pesticides, biostimulants, plant strengtheners, or the use as a biostimulant. That is, according to the present invention, there is also provided a method of using a composition characterized by introducing a pesticide, a biological enhancer and / or a plant strengthener into a composition forming one or more of these carriers, or a method of using the composition of the present invention, or the film itself derived therefrom, as a biostimulant.

[0165] The composition of the present invention, or a film-like material derived therefrom, can be used as a carrier for active substances, such as pesticides, especially plant protection products such as repellents, fungicides, insecticides, bactericides, herbicides, or fertilizers. Also, such active substances can be embedded in the composition, or at least partially dried composition, or the film of the present invention. That is, the composition of the present invention, at least partially dried composition, or a film-like material derived therefrom acts as a sustained-release matrix. Also, the composition of the present invention, or a film-like material derived therefrom, contains and can release an active substance such as a pesticide or a plant strengthener. Also, the composition of the present invention, or a film-like material derived therefrom, enables delayed transport, delayed diffusion, controlled release, and sustained release. As a result, the stress on plants caused by a co-formulation containing an active substance or a plant protection agent is reduced. For example, the higher efficiency of insecticides due to sustained release and long-term activity can reduce the stress on plants. This also applies to the embodiments of the present invention in which the composition or film of the present invention is used as a coating.

[0166] The composition of the present invention, or a film-like material derived therefrom, preferably contains a biostimulant as a further additive, or preferably the composition of the present invention, or the film-like material derived from the composition of the present invention itself, is a biostimulant. The composition of the present invention, or a film-like material derived therefrom, can be used as a plant biostimulant for reducing the effects of external stresses such as drying, sunlight irradiation, frost, and rainfall. Also, the composition of the present invention, or a film-like material derived therefrom, can be sprayed on the soil to ensure stimulation of microbial activity. This is particularly suitable when using the composition of the present invention, or a film-like material derived from the composition of the present invention, as a coating treatment agent (coating) for the soil. The composition of the present invention, or a film-like material derived from the present invention, is preferably used to form a biostimulant film on the leaves in order to reduce the effects of external stresses such as drying, sunlight irradiation, frost, and rainfall, and to stimulate microbial activity in the soil.

[0167] In a further embodiment, the composition of the present invention, or a film-like material derived from the present invention, is suitable for use as a dust binder or dust inhibitor. That is, the present invention provides a method of using the composition of the present invention or a film-like material derived from the present invention for reducing dust. The composition of the present invention, or a film-like material derived therefrom, is preferably used particularly for reducing dust in animal production facilities, and the animal production facilities are preferably feedlots, grazing lands, stables, cattle sheds, and racecourses. The composition of the present invention, or a film-like material derived therefrom, is preferably applied onto the surface or an object, for example, by spraying, or is preferably introduced directly into the environment.

[0168] In a further embodiment, the present invention is particularly directed to the use of the composition of the present invention, or a film-like material derived from the composition of the present invention, as a yield enhancer when the composition or the film-like material derived from the composition of the present invention is applied to seeds, soil, plants, or parts of plants. In this use, the composition preferably contains a pesticide, a biostimulant, or a plant strengthener.

[0169] In a further embodiment of the present invention, particularly when the composition of the present invention, or a film-like material derived from the composition of the present invention, is applied to seeds, soil, plants, or parts of plants, it is directed to the use and application as an agent for enhancing the utilization effect of water. In this use, the composition also preferably contains a pesticide, a biostimulant, or a plant strengthener.

[0170] In the use or method of use of the present invention, the composition is preferably applied, for example, on seeds, soil, plants, or parts of plants, or animal feed, and at least partially dried and substantially dried. Thereby, the film of the present invention can be formed. Here, "substantially dried" means a moisture content of about 15% by weight or less, or 5% by weight or less, more preferably 3% by weight or less, based on the weight of the dry composition of the film-like material. The moisture content is preferably measured at an air temperature of 25 °C and a relative humidity of 50%.

[0171] In a further aspect, the present invention relates to the use of the above-described composition or the film described in the present invention as a cosmetic or personal care, or for cosmetic or personal care, or in cosmetics or personal care. This composition can be used particularly as a thickener, a film-forming agent, a humectant, a barrier-forming agent, a wetting agent, an adherent, a gelling agent, a protective barrier agent, and / or a rheology additive.

[0172] According to the present invention, that is, it is preferable to provide the composition as described above, or a film-like material derived therefrom, to cosmetics.

[0173] According to the present invention, that is, it is preferable to provide the composition as described above, or a film-like material derived therefrom, to personal care products containing the film-like material as described above.

[0174] According to the present invention, the constitution of cosmetics including the following is disclosed. - A hydroxyalkyl starch or a hydroxyalkyl starch fraction in which the amylose content is 30% by weight or more and the weight average molar mass is in the range of about 1×10 5 g / mol to about 1×10 8 g / mol, preferably in the range of about 1×10 5 g / mol to about 4×10 7 g / mol, based on the total amount (100% by weight) of starch. - At least one salt selected from alkali metal salts and / or alkaline earth metal salts.

[0175] Therefore, such cosmetics may contain a hydroxyalkyl starch or a hydroxyalkyl starch fraction having a value in the range of 0.001 to 10% by weight, based on the total amount (100% by weight) of the cosmetics, and more preferably contain a hydroxyalkyl starch or a hydroxyalkyl starch fraction having a value in the range of 0.001 to 5% by weight, 0.001 to 2% by weight, or 0.001 to 1% by weight.

[0176] Also, the cosmetics preferably contain a salt having a value in the range of 0.001 to 1% by weight, based on the total amount (100% by weight) of the cosmetics. And it is more preferable that the content of the salt is in the range of 0.001 to 0.5% by weight, 0.001 to 0.2% by weight, or 0.001 to 0.1% by weight.

[0177] Furthermore, the cosmetic is preferably in a state where it is uniformly distributed in the bulk, or preferably contains the composition of the present invention in a state where it is concentrated in a certain place.

[0178] Furthermore, the cosmetic preferably contains the film-like material of the present invention as a coating material or a covering material.

[0179] Preferred cosmetics or personal care products are at least one selected from creams, sprays, lotions, shampoos, shaving creams, shaving gels, hair care and hair styling products, skin care and color cosmetics, sunscreens, lipsticks, lip balms, soaps, lotions, hair conditioners, hair straighteners, makeup products, nail care products, toothpastes, oral hygiene and care products.

[0180] Furthermore, due to the viscoelastic properties, the liquid composition is preferably used to increase the viscosity of cosmetics and personal care products or to improve the stability of oil-in-water emulsions. Furthermore, the viscosity of the liquid composition in the final product can be adjusted by influencing factors (parameters) including the starch content used, the degree of substitution, and the average molecular weight of the starch used. As a further embodiment, due to the film-forming properties, the liquid composition can be applied as a film-forming agent in cosmetics and personal care products such as hair styling, skin care products and color cosmetics. The film-forming substance, mainly acrylate, forms a transdermal film on the skin as protection against external influences and as a styling holder in hair products to avoid dehydration of the skin. However, currently, alternatives to synthetic substances with environmental problems such as acrylate are in demand. Furthermore, it is also preferable to utilize the water retention capacity of the liquid starch composition to impart a moisturizing effect and a wetting effect in skin care products.

[0181] In a further embodiment, the composition of the present invention is preferably used in cosmetics or personal care products as an emulsifier or co-emulsifier, although it is not more specifically limited.

Examples

[0182] [Measurement method] The weight average molar mass of the starch polymer was determined using a multi-angle light scattering detector (SEC-MALLS) as follows. That is, the HPSEC system, which is a high-performance multi-angle light scattering detector, is composed of a 600MS pump module, a 717 autoinjector, a column section, an Rl detector 410, and a MALLS detector Dawn-F-DSP laser photometer (manufactured by Wyatt Technology, Santa Barbara, CA). In addition, the three columns used were Suprema from PSS, and the target weight average molar mass was 1×10 8 ~1×10 6 g / mol, 2×10 6 ~5×10 4 g / mol, and 1×10 3 ~1×10 5 g / mol. In addition, the dimensions of the three columns were each 300×7.8 mm. In addition, the sample was eluted using H2O containing 0.05 M NaNO3 under the conditions of 40 °C and a flow rate of 0.735 mL·min -1 . In addition, the concentration was in the range of 1~5 mg·mL -1 corresponding to the expected molar mass. Furthermore, the MALLS detector was connected in series with a refractive index detector (DRI).

[0183] In addition, the degree of substitution (DS) and the molar degree of substitution (MS) were determined by 13C-NMR spectroscopy of hydroxypropyl starch after complete hydrolysis. 13 The DS value was determined based on the description in a predetermined document (J. Kunze, A. Ebert, H.-P. Fink, Cellul. Chem. Technol. 2000, 34, 21-34.) from the average values of the signals at the C2, C3, and C6 positions relative to the signal at the C1 position.

[0184] Furthermore, for hydroxypropyl starch after complete hydrolysis, 13 the degree of substitution (DS) and the molar substitution degree (MS) were determined by 13C-NMR spectroscopy. As described in the above document (J. Kunze, A. Ebert, H.-P. Fink, Cellul. Chem. Technol. 2000, 34, 21-34.), the DS value is determined by integrating the methyl group signals of the hydroxypropyl groups directly bonded to the C2, C3, and C6 positions. Furthermore, for the MS measurement, it was determined by integrating the additional hydroxypropyl groups bonded to the hydroxy groups in the chain of the hydroxypropyl substituents related to the signal at the C1 position.

[0185] Furthermore, the amylose content was determined by current measurement with reference to the method described in a predetermined document (Richter, Augustat and Schierbaum (Ausgewaehlte Methoden der Staerkechemie. Wiss. Verlagsgesellschaft mbH. Stuttgart (1968). 111)).

[0186] Furthermore, morphological analysis (e.g., amorphous, crystalline, particles, etc.) was performed using an optical microscope with polarization.

[0187] Furthermore, all rheology measurements were carried out at a constant temperature of 25 °C using a Physica Rheolab MC100 as the measuring device.

[0188] [Example 1] The manufacturing procedures of liquid compositions for agriculture, horticulture, forestry, and livestock industries were examined. That is, high amylose starch containing 68% by weight of amylose with respect to the whole starch (100% by weight) was gelatinized under alkaline conditions (pH = 12 to 14) without using a swelling inhibitor, and continuously stirred at a temperature range of 20 to 60 °C for 2 to 8 hours until the starch granules were completely destroyed and dispersed (transparent dispersion). Next, the starch paste was hydroxypropylated with propylene oxide to an MS in the range of 0.1 to 0.8. As a result, the degree of substitution DS of the derivative was 0.17, and the molar substitution degree MS was 0.35. Also, the pH of the solution was adjusted to 6.2, and humic acid and geraniol were further added. As a result, the final concentration of the components in the aqueous composition was 10% by weight of starch, 8% by weight of potassium phosphate, 0.01% by weight of humic acid, and 0.1% by weight of geraniol with respect to the whole aqueous composition (100% by weight).

[0189] [Example 2] The manufacturing procedure of the liquid composition for cosmetics and personal care products was examined. That is, high amylose starch containing 68% by weight of amylose with respect to the whole starch (100% by weight) was gelatinized under alkaline conditions (pH = 12 to 14) without using a swelling inhibitor, and continuously stirred at a temperature range of 20 to 60 °C for 2 to 8 hours until the starch granules were completely destroyed and dispersed (transparent dispersion). Next, the starch paste was hydroxypropylated with propylene oxide to an MS in the range of 0.1 to 0.8. Also, for the aqueous solution, the pH was adjusted to 6.2 and desalted as necessary until the conductivity reached a value of 1500 pS / cm. As a result, the final concentration of the starch component in the aqueous composition was 10% by weight with respect to the whole aqueous composition (100% by weight).

[0190] [Example 3] The analysis data of the composition derived from starch was evaluated. That is, in FIG. 1, the method for determining the molecular weight was shown. In addition, as shown in Fig. 2 for the determination of DS and MS by 13 13C-NMR. In addition, in order to obtain higher resolution, the starch-containing composition (the present invention) was first hydrolyzed using trifluoroacetic acid. In addition, Fig. 3 shows the flow curve of the present invention. As a result, it was found that the starch composition exhibited long-term stable viscosity.

[0191] In addition, Fig. 4 shows the frequency sweep of the present invention.

[0192] The loss modulus and the storage modulus strongly depend on the frequency during deformation in the viscoelastic region, and in the frequency range of 0.1 to 10 Hz, G’’ > G’, indicating a liquid state.

[0193] Table 4 shows the measurement results of amylose by current measurement.

[0194] [Table 4]

[0195] [Example 4] The substituent distribution of the starch-derived composition was determined. That is, the degree of substitution (DS) of the modified hydroxypropyl starch was determined by 13 13C-NMR spectroscopy after complete hydrolysis of the starch ether as described above. The detected DS value was 0.30 (Fig. 5). In addition, from the same completely hydrolyzed sample, the ratio of unsubstituted glucose units was determined by HPAE-PAD using calibration with a glucose standard substance. As a result, it was 0.75. According to a specified document (Spurlin (H.M. Spurlin Journal of the American Chemical Society 1939, 61, 2222-2227)), assuming that the reaction rates of the three hydroxy groups are the same, the value of DS is 0.30, and the proportion of unsubstituted glucose units is 0.73. Therefore, since the difference between the experimentally determined value and the theoretically calculated value is small, it is understood that the product is almost homogeneously substituted.

[0196] [Example 5] The residual rate of the active ingredient on the leaf surface after rainfall was evaluated. That is, regarding the improvement of the rainfastness of mancozeb, fluazinam, and dimethomorph according to the present invention on the leaf surface, the residual rates of the active ingredients on the leaf surface are shown in FIGS. 6, 7, and 8, respectively.

[0197] [Example 6] The decrease property of the herbicide active ingredient was evaluated. That is, the effectiveness comparison between the standard herbicide spraying without adjuvant and the herbicide spraying reduced by 50% in combination with the starch-derived composition (the present invention), which were continuously inspected for three years in the GEP test (proper experiment implementation), was evaluated from the decrease of the herbicide active ingredient and is shown in Tables 5 to 10.

[0198] The following herbicides shown in Table 5 were used

[0199]

Table 5

[0200] Table 6 shows the herbicidal effect of the application of the present invention comprising a mixture of a herbicide and a starch-derived formulation at standard spraying amounts and reduced spraying amounts, 24 days after spraying, which was carried out in 2014 in a non-disclosed situation.

[0201]

Table 6

[0202] Table 7 shows the herbicidal effect of the application of the present invention, which is composed of a mixture of a herbicide and a starch-derived formulation, at the standard application rate and the reduced application rate, 54 days after spraying, carried out in 2014 under non-disclosure conditions.

[0203] [Table 7]

[0204] Table 8 shows the herbicidal effect of the application of the present invention, which is composed of a mixture of a herbicide and a starch-derived formulation (the present invention), at the standard application rate and the reduced application rate, 67 days after spraying, carried out in 2014 under non-disclosure conditions.

[0205] [Table 8]

[0206] Table 9 shows the herbicidal effect of the application of the present invention, which is composed of a mixture of a herbicide and a starch-derived formulation (the present invention), at the standard application rate and the reduced application rate, 24 days after spraying, carried out in 2015 under non-disclosure conditions.

[0207] [Table 9]

[0208] Table 10 shows the herbicidal effect of the application of the present invention, which is composed of a mixture of a herbicide and a starch-derived formulation (the present invention), at the standard application rate and the reduced application rate, 18 days after spraying, carried out in 2016 under non-disclosure conditions.

[0209] [Table 10]

[0210] [Example 7] The stress reduction property was evaluated. That is, as shown in Table 11, a comparison of the effectiveness of standard fungicide spraying and 50% reduced fungicide spraying, both with and without combination with the starch-derived composition (the present invention), was conducted in the GEP-test. As a result, the parasitism rate of Phytophthora infestans (PHYTIN) in potatoes was low (less than 1%) under any treatment due to very dry and high-temperature weather conditions. In addition, the effect of adding the starch-derived composition (the present invention) on the stress caused by the fungicide treatment was evaluated. In addition, it was shown that reducing the fungicide-stress had a positive effect on the potato yield. That is, the following fungicide treatments were evaluated.

[0211] [Table 11]

[0212] In addition, the effect of the starch-derived composition on stress reduction was shown in Fig. 9.

[0213] [Example 8] The preparation of the oil-in-water emulsion was evaluated. Here, the aqueous composition represents the continuous phase, and the dispersed phase is oil from different sources. In a preliminary investigation, an unexpected effect was obtained regarding the dispersibility of some portions of the oil in the aqueous composition of the present invention at different concentrations. That is, although hydroxyalkyl starch does not contain a hydrophobic group or a lipophilic group in its polymer structure and no surfactant was used in the preparation of the oil-water emulsion, phase separation was not observed. In addition, the emulsion was stable for at least 24 hours, preferably for more than one week.

[0214] [Example of Procedure] As the liquid composition of the present invention according to Example 2, 237.5 g, 225 g or 212.5 g was prepared, each was placed in a beaker, and 12.5 g, 25 g and 37.5 g of rapeseed oil (the rapeseed oil had been previously colored red with 0.005% Sudan III) were further mixed, and using a hand blender (12,500 rpm), it was stirred for 2 minutes and homogenized. Subsequently, emulsions obtained by adding 5, 10 and 15% by weight of rapeseed oil respectively were allowed to stand at room temperature for 24 hours. As a result, it was shown that phase separation was hardly observed or did not occur at all in the emulsion for at least 24 hours and it was stable.

[0215] [Example 9] Evaluation of the increase in crop yield by adding amylofol (registered trademark) to pesticide treatment was carried out. Also, in this example and the following examples, amylofol, which is the applicant's trademark, was used to form the composition of the present invention.

[0216] Also, it can be said that the sustained release mechanism of amylofol, which is the composition of Example 1, makes it possible to reduce abiotic stress on crops and brings about a high yield. To prove this, the inventors evaluated GEP and On Farm Research (OFR) tests over several years in various crops.

[0217] (A) Evaluation of the increase in yield in processing potatoes by adding amylofol to fungicide spraying

[0218] Table 12 shows the results of the GEP test (Test 1) (field research) conducted in Germany in 2015 in a non-disclosed situation. Also, the variety of potato used in the test was Innovator.

[0219]

Table 12

[0220] Together with the composition of the present invention, the following fungicides shown in Table 13 were used.

[0221] [Table 13]

[0222] Table 14 shows the results of the GEP test (Test 2) (field study) conducted in Germany in 2016 under non-disclosure conditions. Also, the potato variety used in the test was Orwel.

[0223] [Table 14]

[0224] The following fungicides shown in Table 15 were used.

[0225] [Table 15]

[0226] Table 16 shows the results of the GEP test (Test 3) (field study) conducted in Germany in 2017 under non-disclosure conditions. Also, the potato variety used in the test was Innovator.

[0227] [Table 16]

[0228] The following fungicides shown in Table 17 were used.

[0229] [Table 17]

[0230] Test Results of 1 to 3 In a three-year test, when amylofall was added to the fungicide spray for farms, the yield of processing potatoes could be increased by an average of 8.9% compared to the farm spray. The class of sizes over 55 mm, which is important for processing potatoes, increased by an average of 42.9% by adding amylofall to the farm fungicide spray.

[0231] (B) Evaluation of the increase in yield of starch potatoes by adding amylofall to the fungicide spray

[0232] Table 18 shows the results of the GEP test conducted in 2016 in Saxony, Germany, by LWK Nieder. (Test 4) under non-disclosure circumstances. Also, the variety of potato used in the test was Starga.

[0233]

Table 18

[0234] The following fungicides shown in Table 19 were used.

[0235]

Table 19

[0236] Table 20 shows the results of the GEP test conducted in 2017 in Saxony, Germany, by LWK Nieder. (Test 5) under non-disclosure circumstances. Also, the variety of potato used in the test was Starga.

[0237]

Table 20

[0238] The following fungicides shown in Table 21 were used.

[0239] [Table 21]

[0240] Test Results of 4 - 5 The addition of amylofall to the farm fungicide treatment for two consecutive years resulted in an average yield increase of 3.6%. Also, the addition of amylofall increased the starch content by an average of 3%.

[0241] (C) Evaluation of yield increase in wheat by adding amylofall to fungicide spraying

[0242] Table 22 shows the results of the GEP test conducted in Smurrufug, Germany in 2019 under non - public circumstances.

[0243] [Table 22]

[0244] The following fungicides shown in Table 23 were used.

[0245] [Table 23]

[0246] [Results] By adding amylofall to the fungicide treatment, the wheat yield increased by 3.3% compared to the fungicide treatment without adding amylofall.

[0247] (D) Evaluation of yield increase in sugar beet by adding amylofall to fungicide treatment

[0248] ​Table 24 shows the results of the GEP test (field study) conducted in Germany in 2017 in a non-disclosed situation.

[0249] [Table 24]

[0250] The following fungicides shown in Table 25 were used.

[0251] [Table 25]

[0252] [Results] By adding amylofall to the fungicide treatment, the sugar beet yield increased by 2.2% and the sugar content increased by 0.3% compared to the fungicide treatment without adding amylofall.

[0253] (E) Evaluation of yield increase in soybeans by adding amylofall to fungicide spraying

[0254] Table 26 shows the results of the test GEP test conducted by Agrinovva in the United States in 2020 in a non-disclosed situation. CST in the table indicates a commercially available seed treatment.

[0255] [Table 26]

[0256] The following fungicides shown in Table 27 were used.

[0257] [Table 27]

[0258] [Results] In the first soybean tests conducted in the United States in 2020, simply adding amylofall to commercially available seed treatments improved germination, emergence, and plant vigor, and increased yields at two test sites.

[0259] [Example 10] An evaluation was made of the improvement in water use efficiency using amylofall in an agricultural system. That is, since 2018, various tests including irrigation have been conducted mainly on potatoes in a non-disclosed situation. As a result, in all tests containing amylofall as an adjuvant for pesticide treatment, the water use efficiency (WUE) represented by irrigation water productivity (WPirrig) increased.

[0260] (A) Evaluation of water use efficiency in potato tests with irrigation

[0261] Table 28 shows the results of the OFP test conducted in the Netherlands in 2018 in a non-disclosed situation.

[0262]

Table 28

[0263] The following fungicides shown in Table 29 were used.

[0264]

Table 29

[0265] [Results] The addition of amylofall increased the water use efficiency (WUE) expressed as yield / ha / mm by 13% compared to the standard treatment.

[0266] Table 30 shows the results of the GEP test conducted by Miller Research in 2019 in a non-disclosed situation. IF in the table indicates spraying into the furrow.

[0267]

Table 30

[0268] The following bactericides shown in Table 31 were used.

[0269]

Table 31

[0270] [Results] In 2019, in a non - public situation, as a result of adding amylofall to the foliar spraying program, the water use efficiency (WUE) was 9% higher than that of the foliar spraying program without using amylofall. Also, the spraying in the furrows of Quadris was only carried out once. And due to the addition of amylofall, the WUE of irrigated potatoes increased by 4%.

[0271] Table 32 shows the results of the GEP test conducted by Mirali Research in 2020 in a non - public situation.

[0272]

Table 32

[0273] The following bactericides shown in Table 33 were used.

[0274]

Table 33

[0275] [Results] In 2020, in a non - public situation, when amylofall was added to the foliar spraying solution (program), the water use efficiency (WUE) was 4% higher than that of the foliar spraying solution without using amylofall. In addition, in potato irrigation tests conducted in the United States, it was shown that adding amylofall to pesticide treatment improved water use efficiency for two consecutive years. Overall in the irrigation tests, when amylofall was added to pesticide treatment, water use efficiency increased by an average of 7.5%. As a result, marketable yields increased in all treatments.

[0276] (B) Evaluation of water use efficiency in potato tests without irrigation

[0277] Table 34 shows the results of a farm test conducted in the Netherlands in 2018 in a non-disclosed situation.

[0278]

Table 34

[0279] The following fungicides shown in Table 35 were used.

[0280]

Table 35

[0281] [Results] Under non-irrigation conditions, the water use efficiency (WUE) expressed as yield / ha / mm increased by 20% by adding amylofall when using a farm fungicide treatment solution. That is, the increase in WUE led to high yields.

Claims

1. At least the amylose content is 30% by weight or more, and the weight average molar mass is 1×10 ５ g / mol to 1×10 ８ g / mol of hydroxyalkyl starch or a hydroxyalkyl starch fraction, at least one salt selected from alkali metal salts and alkaline earth metal salts; Water, Including, the hydroxyalkyl starch or the hydroxyalkyl starch fraction has a non-granular amorphous structure, The composition, characterized in that the salt has a chalcogen or pnictogen containing an anion, the anion being an ion derived from at least one selected from the group consisting of phosphate, hydrogen phosphate, sulfate, hydrogen sulfate, or acetate, and the content of the salt is 2% by weight to 10% by weight.

2. At least the amylose content is 30% by weight or more, and the weight average molar mass is 1×10 ５ g / mol to 1×10 ８ g / mol of hydroxyalkyl starch or a hydroxyalkyl starch fraction, at least one salt selected from alkali metal salts and alkaline earth metal salts; Water, Including, the hydroxyalkyl starch or the hydroxyalkyl starch fraction is dissolved in water, The composition, characterized in that the salt has a chalcogen or pnictogen containing an anion, the anion being an ion derived from at least one selected from the group consisting of phosphate, hydrogen phosphate, sulfate, hydrogen sulfate, or acetate, and the content of the salt is 2% by weight to 10% by weight.

3. 3. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the content of said hydroxyalkyl starch or said hydroxyalkyl starch fraction is in the range of from 5% to 25% by weight.

4. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the hydroxyalkyl starch or the hydroxyalkyl starch fraction has a molar substitution degree in the range of 0.05 to 0.

8.

5. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising at least one component selected from the group consisting of terpenes, humic substances, pesticides, biostimulants, plant fortifiers, and preservatives.

6. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the hydroxyalkyl starch or the hydroxyalkyl starch fraction has a substitution degree in the range of 0.025 to 0.

6.

7. A hydroxyalkyl starch or a hydroxyalkyl starch fraction having an amylose content of at least 30% by weight and a weight average molar mass in the range of 1×10 ５ g / mol to 1×10 ８ g / mol, and at least one salt selected from alkali metal salts and / or alkaline earth metal salts, A film-like material containing the same, or a film-like material obtained by at least partially drying the composition according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. A manufacturing method for forming the film-like material according to claim 7, characterized by including the following steps. - A step of applying the composition according to any one of claims 1 to 6 onto a substrate - A step of at least partially drying the composition to form a film-like material

9. A coating for seeds, soil, plants, parts of plants, or animal feed, having an amylose content of at least 30% by weight and a weight average molar mass in the range of 1×10 ５ g / mol to 1×10 ８A coating comprising a hydroxyalkyl starch or a hydroxyalkyl starch fraction having a value within the range of g / mol, and a salt selected from the group consisting of an alkali metal salt and / or an alkaline earth metal salt Or, a coating that is at least partially dried and derived from the composition according to any one of claims 1 to 6 Or, a coating characterized by being any one of the coatings that are film-like substances according to claim 7.

10. A coating for seeds, soil, plants, parts of plants, or animal feed, comprising at least one component selected from the group consisting of pesticides, biostimulants, or plant boosters, and the component is contained in or adhered to the coating. The coating according to claim 9 is characterized in that

11. A coating method for seeds, soil, plants, parts of plants, or animal feed, characterized by comprising the following steps. - A step of applying the composition according to any one of claims 1 to 6 onto seeds, soil, plants, parts of plants, or animal feed - A step of at least partially drying the composition to form a coating on seeds, soil, plants, or parts of plants, or animal feed

12. A method of using the composition according to any one of claims 1 to 6, or a method of using the film-like substance according to claim 7, characterized by coating seeds, soil, growth medium, plants, parts of plants, or animal feed.

13. A method of using the composition according to any one of claims 1 to 6, or a method of using the film-like substance according to claim 7, characterized by being for the following uses. - A carrier matrix for components selected from pesticides, biostimulants, or plant boosters - Biostimulants - Dust binding agents - Dust preventives - Yield increasing agents - Agent for enhancing water utilization effect

14. A method of using the composition according to any one of Claims 1 to 6 or the film-like material according to Claim 7 in cosmetics or personal care products, or a method of using them for cosmetics or personal care products.

15. The method of use according to Claim 14, characterized in that the composition is used as a thickening agent, film-forming agent, moisturizing agent, barrier-forming agent, wetting agent, fixing agent, gelling agent, protective barrier agent and / or rheology additive.

16. A method of using the composition according to any one of Claims 1 to 6 or a method of using the film-like material according to Claim 7, characterized in that it is an application to cosmetics or personal care products.

17. A method of using the composition according to any one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it is a method of using it as an emulsifying agent or co-emulsifying agent.

Images