Solid formulation

Abstract

The present invention relates to a solid composition comprising (1) flonicamid, (2) at least one lignosulfonate and / or at least one alkyl aryl sulfonate and (3) agricultural acceptable solid carrier. The present invention also provides preparation and methods of use of the composition, disclosed herein.

Description

[0001] SOLID FORMULATION

[0002] Throughout this application various publications are referenced. The disclosures of these documents in their entireties are hereby incorporated by reference into this application in order to more fully describe the state of the art to which this invention pertains.

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] The present invention provides a solid composition comprising (1) flonicamid, (2) at least one lignosulfonate and / or at least one alkyl aryl sulfonate and (3) agricultural acceptable solid carrier. The present invention also provides methods of use of the compositions disclosed herein and processes of preparing the compositions disclosed herein.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] Flonicamid, N-(cyanomethyl)-4-(trifluoromethyl)-3-pyridinecarboxamide is a solid water pesticide which can be formulated as liquid composition such as soluble liquid formulation (SL) and solid composition such as granules.

[0007] Solid composition which that generally incorporates the active ingredient into a granule, presents advantages in terms of storage as well as in terms of handling and safety. Solid composition requires sufficient dispersibility in water. Commercial products containing Flonicamid as active ingredient are commonly sold as Wettable granules.

[0008] Composition which comprises flonicamid produce a large amount of foam when added to the spray tank and intensively stirred. High foaming leads loss of spraying solution and limits efficiency of the spraying process.

[0009] There is a need to develop a new composition of flonicamid with good dispersibility and with reduced foaming level.

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The present invention provides a solid composition comprising (1) flonicamid, (2) at least one lignosulfonate and / or at least one alkyl aryl sulfonate and (3) agricultural acceptable solid carrier.

[0012] The present invention provides a solid composition comprising (1) flonicamid, (2) combination of at least one lignosulfonate and at least one alkyl aryl sulfonate and (3) agricultural acceptable solid carrier.

[0013] In some embodiments, the solid composition is a stable composition.

[0014] In some embodiments, the solid composition is a low-foaming composition.

[0015] In some embodiments, the alkyl aryl sulfonate is alkyl naphthalene sulfonate.

[0016] In some embodiments, the foaming persistence, when the solid composition is mixed with water to form an aqueous composition, is equal to or lower than about 60 ml when tested according to CIPAC Test MT47.2.

[0017] In some embodiments, the foaming persistence, when the solid composition is mixed with water to form an aqueous composition, is equal to or lower than 30 ml when tested according to CIPAC Test MT47.2.

[0018] In some embodiments, stable composition is when the foaming persistence when the solid composition is mixed with water to form an aqueous composition, is equal to or lower than about 60 ml when tested according to CIPAC Test MT47.2.

[0019] In some embodiments, stable composition is when the foaming persistence when the solid composition is mixed with water to form an aqueous composition, is equal to or lower than 30 ml when tested according to CIPAC Test MT47.2.

[0020] The present invention provides the use of a combination of lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate for reducing or eliminating the rate and / or extent of foaming of composition comprising flonicamid upon mixing with water, wherein the rate and / or extent of foaming when the flonicamid is formulated in absence of the combination of lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate, is higher compared to the rate and / or extent of foam when the solid composition comprising flonicamid in the same amount is formulated in presence of lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate.

[0021] The present invention provides the use of lignosulfonate and / or alkyl aryl sulfonate for formulating solid composition comprising flonicamid.

[0022] The present invention provides the use of lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate for formulating solid composition comprising flonicamid. The present invention provides a ready to use composition prepared from the composition described herein.

[0023] The present invention also provides a method for controlling unwanted insects comprising applying an effective amount of any one of the herein described composition to a plant, a locus thereof, propagation material thereof, or an area infested with the unwanted insects so as to thereby control the unwanted insects.

[0024] The present invention provides a process for preparing a water dispersible solid or solid water soluble composition comprising flonicamid, the process comprising (1) mixing flonicamid, at least one lignosulfonate and / or one alkylarylsulfonate, and optionally additional active ingredient in solid form with at least one agriculturally acceptable additive in solid form to prepare a pre-mix, (2) milling the premix of step (1) to prepare a milled blend, (3) wetting the milled blend with a wetting liquid, (4) perform wet granulation and drying.

[0025] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0026] Definitions

[0027] Prior to setting forth the present subject matter in detail, it may be helpful to provide definitions of certain terms to be used herein. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of skill in the art to which this subject matter belongs.

[0028] As used herein, an "agriculturally acceptable additive" is a compound that is known and accepted in the art for use in the formation of solid compositions for agricultural or horticultural use.

[0029] As used herein, the term "adjuvant" is defined as any substance that is not an active ingredient, but which enhances or is intended to enhance the effectiveness of the active ingredient, for example pesticide, with which it is used. Adjuvants may include, but are not limited to, spreading agents, penetrants, compatibility agents, and drift retardants.

[0030] As used herein, the term "concentrated" refers to the solid composition before mixing with water.

[0031] As used herein, the term "tank sprayer" means the tank where the composition is added to water before use, at the time of spray application.

[0032] As used herein, the term "plant" includes reference to the whole plant, plant organ (e.g., leaves, stems, twigs, roots, trunks, limbs, shoots, fruits etc.), or plant cells.

[0033] As used herein, the term "plant" includes reference to agricultural crops including field crops (soybean, maize, wheat, rice, etc.), vegetable crops (potatoes, cabbages, etc.) and fruits (peach, etc.).

[0034] As used herein, the term "propagation material" is to be understood to denote all the generative parts of the plant such as seeds and spores, vegetative structures such as bulbs, corms, tubers, rhizomes, roots stems, basal shoots, stolons and buds.

[0035] As used herein, the term "locus" includes not only areas where insect may already exist, but also areas where insect has yet to emerge, and also to areas under cultivation.

[0036] As used herein the term "knockdown treatment" or "knockdown activity" means an application of one or more insecticide for controlling insect infestation of the plant or locus before and / or after an infestation or before and / or after insect damage are shown and / or when the pest pressure is low / high. Insect pressure may be assessed based on the conditions associated with insect development such as population density and certain environmental conditions.

[0037] As used herein the term "persistence treatment" or "persistence activity" is used in connection with an insecticide, the term means an application of one or more insecticide for controlling insect infestation of the plant or locus over an extended period of time, before and / or after an infestation or before and / or after insect damage are shown and / or when the insect pressure is low / high. Insect pressure may be assessed based on the conditions associated with insect development such as population density and certain environmental conditions.

[0038] As used herein, the term "ha" refers to hectare.

[0039] The term "a" or "an" as used herein includes the singular and the plural, unless specifically stated otherwise. Therefore, the terms "a," "an" or "at least one" can be used interchangeably in this application.

[0040] Throughout the application, descriptions of various embodiments use the term "comprising"; however, it will be understood by one of skill in the art, that in some specific instances, an embodiment can alternatively be described using the language "consisting essentially of" or "consisting of."

[0041] The term "about" as used herein specifically includes ±10% from the indicated values in the range. In addition, the endpoints of all ranges directed to the same component or property herein are inclusive of the endpoints, are independently combinable, and include all intermediate points and ranges. It is understood that where a parameter range is provided, all integers within that range, and tenths thereof, are also provided by the invention. For example, "10-50%" includes 10%, 10.1%, 10.2%, etc. up to 50%.

[0042] As used herein, the term "water dispersible solid composition" refers to a solid composition comprising two or more components formulated to disperse at least one component of the composition in the form of solid particles when mixed with water.

[0043] In some embodiments, at least one of the components dispersed in the form of solid particles is the active ingredient.

[0044] In some embodiments, the solid particles have a particle size distribution d90 of less than 30 microns. In some embodiments, the solid particles have a particle size distribution d90 of less than 20 microns.

[0045] As used herein, the term "soluble solid composition" refers to a solid composition wherein all components are dissolved in water upon mixing with water. Formulating a solid composition comprising flonicamid for mixing with water is challenging due to severe foaming.

[0046] It was found that formulating flonicamid in presence of lignosulfonate and alkyl naphthalene sulfonate provides solid composition which is disintegrates and disperses rapidly in water and with reduced foaming upon mixing.

[0047] Formulating flonicamid in presence of lignosulfonate and alkyl naphthalene sulfonate, reduced and / or eliminated foaming of the composition upon mixing with water. lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate, reduce the foaming of the composition upon mixing with water.

[0048] Among the most important properties of granulated pesticides formulations are their ability to disintegrate fast and efficiently when added to water, with minimal agitating, yet without the creation of persistent foam.

[0049] This invention describes a solid composition which comprises flonicamid that exhibits rapid disintegration in water while not forming persistent foam, the two properties that importance for convenient application of pesticide, furthermore, those properties remain after storage at 54°C for at least 14 days.

[0050] Composition

[0051] The present invention provides a solid composition comprising (1) flonicamid, (2) at least one lignosulfonate and / or at least one alkyl aryl sulfonate and (3) agricultural acceptable solid carrier.

[0052] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a solid composition comprising (1) flonicamid, (2) at least one alkyl aryl sulfonate and (3) agricultural acceptable solid carrier.

[0053] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a solid composition comprising (1) flonicamid, (2) at least one lignosulfonate and (3) agricultural acceptable solid carrier.

[0054] The present invention provides a solid composition comprising (1) flonicamid, (2) combination of at least one lignosulfonate and at least one alkyl aryl sulfonate and (3) agricultural acceptable solid carrier.

[0055] The present invention provides a solid composition comprising (1) flonicamid, (2) at least one additive selected from lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate and (3) agricultural acceptable solid carrier.

[0056] In some embodiments, the solid composition is a stable composition. In some embodiments, the composition is a low-foaming composition.

[0057] In some embodiments, stable composition is low-foaming composition.

[0058] In some embodiments, the alkyl aryl sulfonate is alkyl naphthalene sulfonate.

[0059] In some embodiments, stable is when the foaming persistence when the solid composition is mixed with water to form an aqueous composition, is equal to or lower than about 60 ml when tested according to CIPAC Test MT47.2.

[0060] In some embodiments, stable is when the foaming persistence when the solid composition is mixed with water to form an aqueous composition, is equal to or lower than 30 ml when tested according to CIPAC Test MT47.2.

[0061] In some embodiments, a low-foaming composition refers to a composition whose foaming persistence upon mixing with water is equal to or lower than 30 ml when tested according to CIPAC Test MT47.2.

[0062] In some embodiments, the foaming persistence, when the solid composition is mixed with water to form an aqueous composition, is equal to or lower than about 60 ml when tested according to CIPAC Test MT47.2.

[0063] In some embodiments, the foaming persistence, when the solid composition is mixed with water to form an aqueous composition, is equal to or lower than 30 ml when tested according to CIPAC Test MT47.2.

[0064] In some embodiments, the composition further comprising anti foaming agent.

[0065] In some embodiments, the anti foaming agent is liquid.

[0066] In some embodiments, the anti foaming agent is solid.

[0067] In some embodiments, the anti foaming agent are silicon based anti foaming agent.

[0068] In some embodiments, the anti foaming agent is Silcolaps®432.

[0069] In some embodiments, the anti foaming agent is Silfoam SP® 150.

[0070] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a solid composition comprising (1) flonicamid, (2) at least one additive selected from lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate (3) at least one anti foaming agent and (4) agricultural acceptable solid carrier. In some embodiments, the present invention provides a solid composition comprising (1) flonicamid, (2) at least one lignosulfonate and / or at least one alkyl aryl sulfonate (3) at least one anti foaming agent and (4) agricultural acceptable solid carrier.

[0071] In some embodiments, the foaming persistence of the composition is reduced by at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60% at least 70%, at least 80% compared to solid compositions comprising flonicamid which do not comprise at least lignosulfonate and / or at least one alkyl aryl sulfonate.

[0072] In some embodiments, the foaming persistence of the composition is reduced by at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60% at least 70%, at least 80% compared to solid compositions comprising flonicamid which do not comprise at least one additive selected from lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate.

[0073] In some embodiments, the foaming persistence of the composition is reduced by at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60% at least 70%, at least 80% compared to solid compositions comprising flonicamid which do not comprise a combination of at least one lignosulfonate and least one alkyl aryl sulfonate.

[0074] In some embodiments, the composition is a low-foaming composition.

[0075] In some embodiments, stable composition is when the foaming persistence when the solid composition is mixed with water to form an aqueous composition, is equal to or lower than about 60 ml when tested according to CIPAC Test MT47.2.

[0076] In some embodiments, stable composition is when the foaming persistence when the solid composition is mixed with water to form an aqueous composition, is equal to or lower than 30 ml when tested according to CIPAC Test MT47.2.ln some embodiments, a low-foaming composition refers to a composition whose foaming persistence upon mixing with water is equal to or lower than 30 ml when tested according to CIPAC Test MT47.2.

[0077] In some embodiments, the foaming persistence, when the solid composition is mixed with water to form an aqueous composition, is equal to or lower than about 60 ml when tested according to CIPAC Test MT47.2.

[0078] In some embodiments, the foaming persistence, when the solid composition is mixed with water to form an aqueous composition, is equal to or lower than 30 ml when tested according to CIPAC Test MT47.2.

[0079] In some embodiments, the flonicamid is dissolved in water.

[0080] In some embodiments, the composition is granules, wherein flonicamid is dissolved in water. In some embodiments, the composition is water dispersible solid composition, wherein solid particle of inactive ingredients and / or active ingredient are dispersed in water.

[0081] In some embodiments, part of the flonicamid is dissolved and part of the flonicamid is dispersed in the water.

[0082] In some embodiments, the component in the form of solid particles is an agriculturally acceptable additive.

[0083] In some embodiments, the composition further comprising modified acrylic copolymer.

[0084] In some embodiments, the modified acrylic polymer has an HLB of 12.

[0085] In some embodiments, the modified acrylic copolymer is Atlox 4913.

[0086] In some embodiments, when the solid composition is mixed with water to form a dispersion, additional modified acrylic copolymer is added.

[0087] In some embodiments, a dispersion is obtained upon mixing of the flonicamid solid composition in water wherein the content of solid composition in water is 2% or more.

[0088] In some embodiments, the amount of the combination of at least one lignosulfonate and at least one alkyl aryl sulfonate in the composition is 5 to 25% w / w based on the total weight of the solid composition.

[0089] In some embodiments, the weight ratio between the lignosulfonate and the alkyl aryl sulfonate is between 10:1 to 1:1. In some embodiments, the ratio between the lignosulfonate and the alkyl aryl sulfonate is 8:3.5.

[0090] In some embodiments, the weight ratio between the flonicamid and the combination of at least one lignosulfonate and at least one alkyl aryl sulfonate is 1:1 to 10:1.

[0091] In some embodiments, the weight ratio between the flonicamid and the combination of at least one lignosulfonate and at least one alkyl aryl sulfonate is 1:1 to 5:1.

[0092] In some embodiments, the weight ratio between the flonicamid and the combination of the lignosulfonate and the alkyl aryl sulfonate is between 3:1 to 5:1.

[0093] In some embodiments, the alkyl aryl sulfonate is an alkylnaphthalenesulfonate.

[0094] In some embodiments, the alkyl aryl sulfonate is a diisopropylylnaphthalenesulfonate.

[0095] In some embodiments, the alkyl aryl sulfonate is sodium alkylnaphthalenesulfonate. In some embodiments, the sodium alkylnaphthalenesulfonate is Supragil WP (diisopropylnaphthalene sulfonate sodium salt)

[0096] In some embodiments, the amount of lignosulfonate in the solid composition is between about 3% to about 20% w / w based on the total weight of the composition.

[0097] In some embodiments, the amount of alkyl aryl sulfonate agent in the solid composition is between about 0.01% to about 10% w / w based on the total weight of the composition.

[0098] In some embodiments, the lignosulfonate is modified sodium lignosulphonate. In some embodiments, the modified sodium lignosulphonate is Ufoxane 3A.

[0099] In some embodiments, the amount of the anti foaming agent is between 0.01% to about 3%.

[0100] In some embodiments, the solid composition is granular composition.

[0101] In some embodiment, the solid composition is powder composition. In some embodiments, the solid composition, upon mixing with water produces the physically stable aqueous composition disclosed herein.

[0102] In some embodiments, the water dispersible solid composition, upon mixing with water produces the physically stable aqueous composition disclosed herein.

[0103] In some embodiments, physically stability refer to level of foaming, dispersibility, and / or suspensibility.

[0104] In some embodiments, the solid composition is a soluble solid composition.

[0105] In some embodiments, the soluble solid composition is soluble granules.

[0106] In some embodiments, the solid composition is a water dispersible solid composition.

[0107] In some embodiments, the solid composition is water dispersible granules.

[0108] In some embodiments, the number of inversions of a container comprising the water dispersible solid composition and water for disintegrating the water dispersible solid composition is equal or less than 30.

[0109] In some embodiments, the numberof inversions of a container comprising the soluble solid composition and water for disintegrating the soluble solid composition is equal or less than 20. In some embodiments, the amount of flonicamid in the solid composition is between about 10% to about 95% w / w based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the amount of Flonicamid in the solid composition is between about 10% to about 90% w / w based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the amount of flonicamid in the solid composition is between about 40% to about 85% w / w based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the amount of flonicamid in the solid composition is between about 40% to about 60% w / w based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the amount of Flonicamid in the solid composition is between about 45% to about 55% w / w based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the amount of flonicamid in the solid composition is about 50% w / w based on the total weight of the composition.

[0110] In some embodiments, the solid composition is high-load.

[0111] In some embodiments, high-load refers to composition contains an amount of active ingredients equal or greater than 50% w / w based on the total weight of the composition.

[0112] In some embodiments, the solid composition comprises at least one agriculturally acceptable additive. In some embodiments, the agriculturally acceptable additive is in solid form.

[0113] In some embodiments, the agriculturally acceptable additive is selected from the group consisting of dispersing agent, wetting agent, filler, binder, anti-foaming agent, biocides, water absorbents, water scavengers, adjuvants and any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the agriculturally acceptable additive is selected from the group consisting of dispersing agent, wetting agent, filler, binder, and any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the agriculturally acceptable additive is a dispersing agent. In some embodiments, the agriculturally acceptable additive is a wetting agent. In some embodiments, the agriculturally acceptable additive is a filler. In some embodiments, the agriculturally acceptable additive is a binder.

[0114] In some embodiments, the composition comprising additional additive such as ethoxylated fatty alcohol, polyelectrolyte block copolymer (as described in WO2017 / 098325)

[0115] In some embodiments, the block copolymer comprising 77% of sodium 2- acryloylamino-2-methylpropane-l-sulfonate (AMPS) monomers and 23% of the ethyl acrylate (EA) monomers.

[0116] In some embodiments, the polyelectrolyte block copolymer is a water solution of 30% w / w solution of a block copolymer comprising 77% of sodium 2-acryloylamino-2- methylpropane-l-sulfonate (AMPS) monomers and 23% of ethyl acrylate (EA) monomers, which may be prepared as described in Example 1 of WO2017 / 098325. The water content of the solution is dried out of the solid composition as described herein below.

[0117] In some embodiments, the amount of additional additives in the solid composition is between about 1% to about 50% w / w based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the amount of additional additives in the solid composition is between about 30% to about 40% w / w based on the total weight of the composition.

[0118] In some embodiments, the agricultural acceptable solid additive is filler and / or binder. In some embodiments, the agricultural acceptable solid additive is dispersible in water. In some embodiments, the agricultural acceptable solid additive is soluble in water.

[0119] In some embodiments, the invention also provides a solid composition comprising flonicamid, at least one lignosulfonate and / or least one alkyl aryl sulfonate, and agricultural acceptable solid carrier, wherein the foaming persistence upon mixing of the solid composition with water is reduced compared to a composition comprising flonicamid in the same amount and not comprising lignosulfonate or alkyl aryl sulfonate.

[0120] Agriculturally acceptable additives include, but are not limited to, dispersing agent(s), wetting agent(s), anti-foaming agent(s), biocide(s), water absorbent(s), water scavenger(s), adjuvant(s) and any combination thereof. Preferred agriculturally acceptable additives that may be used for formulating the water dispersible solid composition of the present invention are described herein.

[0121] Use

[0122] The present invention provides the use of alkyl aryl sulfonate for reducing or eliminating the rate and / or extent of foaming of composition comprising flonicamid upon mixing with water, wherein the rate and / or extent of foaming when the flonicamid is formulated in absence of the alkyl aryl sulfonate, is higher compared to the rate and / or extent of foam when the solid composition comprising flonicamid in the same amount is formulated in presence of alkyl aryl sulfonate.

[0123] The present invention provides the use of lignosulfonate for reducing or eliminating the rate and / or extent of foaming of composition comprising flonicamid upon mixing with water, wherein the rate and / or extent of foaming when the flonicamid is formulated in absence of the lignosulfonate, is higher compared to the rate and / or extent of foam when the solid composition comprising flonicamid in the same amount is formulated in presence of lignosulfonate. The present invention provides the use of combination of lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate for reducing or eliminating the rate and / or extent of foaming of composition comprising flonicamid upon mixing with water, wherein the rate and / or extent of foaming when the flonicamid is formulated in absence of the combination, is higher compared to the rate and / or extent of foam when the solid composition comprising flonicamid in the same amount is formulated in presence of lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate.

[0124] In some embodiments, the present invention provides the use of lignosulfonate and / or alkyl aryl sulfonate for reducing or eliminating the rate and / or extent of foaming of composition comprising flonicamid upon mixing with water, wherein the rate and / or extent of foaming when the flonicamid is formulated in presence of lignosulfonate and / or alkyl aryl sulfonate is reduced compared to the rate and / or extent of foam when the solid composition comprising flonicamid in the same amount is formulated in absence of lignosulfonate and / or alkyl aryl sulfonate

[0125] In some embodiments, the present invention provides the use of combination of lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate for reducing or eliminating the rate and / or extent of foaming of composition comprising flonicamid upon mixing with water, wherein the rate and / or extent of foaming when the flonicamid is formulated in presence of lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate is reduced compared to the rate and / or extent of foam when the solid composition comprising flonicamid in the same amount is formulated in absence of the combination.

[0126] In some embodiments, the extent and / or rate of foaming is reduced by at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60% at least 70%, or at least 80%.

[0127] In some embodiments the foaming is eliminated.

[0128] The present invention provides the use of a lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate for formulating solid composition comprising flonicamid. lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate

[0129] The composition of the present invention comprising lignosulfonate and / or alkyl aryl sulfonate.

[0130] The composition of the present invention comprising a combination of lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate.

[0131] Alkyl aryl sulfonate includes mono alkyl, di alkyl, and so on.

[0132] In some embodiments, alkyl aryl sulfonate is mono alkyl derivative. In some embodiments, alkyl aryl sulfonate is di alkyl derivative.

[0133] Alkyl includes both branched and straight-chain saturated aliphatic hydrocarbon groups which may be optionally substituted.

[0134] Alkyl includes Ci-Cnalkyl which is defined to include groups having 1, 2 , n-1 or n carbons in a linear or branched arrangement, isobutyl, sec-butyl, tertiary butyl and so on.

[0135] An embodiment can be Ci-Cio alkyl, C2-C8 alkyl, C3-C8 alkyl, C4-C8 alkyl, C9-C10 alkyl and so on.

[0136] In some embodiments, the alkyl is C1-C10 alkyl.

[0137] In some embodiments, the alkyl is C1-C4 alkyl.

[0138] In some embodiments, the alkyl is C9 alkyl.

[0139] In some embodiments, the alkyl is branched.

[0140] In some embodiments, the alkyl is Isopropyl.

[0141] In some embodiments, the alkyl is butyl.

[0142] In some embodiments, the alkyl is sec- butyl.

[0143] In some embodiments, the alkyl is nonene.

[0144] In some embodiments, the alkyl is branched nonene.

[0145] In some embodiments, when alkyl is isopropyl, the alkyl aryl sulfonate is di alkyl derivative.

[0146] In some embodiments, when alkyl is nonene, the alkyl aryl sulfonate is mono alkyl derivative.

[0147] In some embodiments, the alkyl aryl sulfonate is diisopropyl naphthalene sulfonate sodium salt.

[0148] In some embodiments, the alkyl aryl sulfonate is sodium alkylnaphthalenesulfonate.

[0149] In some embodiments, the sodium alkylnaphthalenesulfonate is Supragil WP (diisopropylnaphthalene sulfonate sodium salt).

[0150] In some embodiments, the sodium alkylnaphthalenesulfonate is Morwet EFW (branched nonenenaphthalene sulfonate sodium salt). In some embodiments, the lignosulfonate is calcium lignosulfonate.

[0151] In some embodiments, the lignosulfonate is sodium lignosulfonate.

[0152] In some embodiments the molecular weight of the lignosulfonate is less than 20,000 gr / mol

[0153] In some embodiments, the degree of sulfonation of lignosulfonate is less than 6% organic sulfur by weight.

[0154] Lignosulfonate (also termed lignosulphonate, lignosulfate, lignin sulfonate, ligninsulfonate, ligninsulfonic acid, lignosulfonic acid, lignosulfuric acid, or LST 7) is a water-soluble anionic polymer which is, for example, formed as a by-product in the sulphite pulping process. Lignosulfonates generally have a wide molecular weight distribution, typically in the range of about 500 to about 150,000. Lignosulfonates may comprise different metal or ammonium ions as counter cations of the sulfonate groups such as, for example, copper, zinc, calcium, sodium, potassium, magnesium, and aluminium. Suitable examples of lignosulfonates comprise sodium lignosulfonate (e.g., sold as BORRESPERSE NA®, Borregaard LignoTech Ltd, Germany), calcium lignosulfonate (e.g., sold as BORRESPERSE CA®, Borregaard LignoTech Ltd, Germany), ammonium lignosulfonate, potassium lignosulfonate, modified lignosulfonate, derivatives of lignosulfonate, or mixtures thereof. Modified lignosulfonates, and derivatives of lignosulfonates are described in U.S. Patent Nos.: 3639263, 3923532, 4006779, 4017475, 4019995, 4069217, 4088640, 4133385, 4181652, 4186242,

[0155] 4196777, 4219471, 4236579, 4249606, 4250088, 4267886, 4269270, 4293342

[0156] 4336189, 4344487, 4594168, 4666522, 4786438, 5032164, 5075402, 5286412,

[0157] 5401718, 5446133, 5981433, 6420602, and 7238645, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0158] In some embodiments, the lignosulfonate is a copper-, zinc-, calcium-, sodium-, potassium-, ammonium-, magnesium- and / or aluminium- lignosulfonate, In some embodiments, the lignosulfonate is a calcium, sodium, potassium or ammonium lignosulfonate,

[0159] In some embodiments, the lignosulfonate is sodium lignosulfonate.

[0160] In some embodiment the lignosulfonate is Vanisperse CB.

[0161] In some embodiments, the lignosulfonate is basic.

[0162] In some embodiments, the basic lignosulfonate is Reax 88B.

[0163] In some embodiments, the lignosulfonate is acidic. In some embodiments, the acidic lignosulfonate is Reax 88A.

[0164] In some embodiments, the amount of lignosulfonate in the solid composition is between about 2% to about 20% w / w based on the total weight of the composition.

[0165] In some embodiments, the amount of lignosulfonate in the solid composition is between about 5% to about 10% w / w based on the total weight of the composition.

[0166] In some embodiments, the amount of alkyl aryl sulfonate agent in the solid composition is between about 0.01% to about 10% w / w based on the total weight of the composition.

[0167] In some embodiments, the amount of alkyl aryl sulfonate agent in the solid composition is between about 1% to about 5% w / w based on the total weight of the composition.

[0168] In some embodiments, the lignosulfonate is modified sodium lignosulphonate. In some embodiments, the modified sodium lignosulphonate is Ufoxane 3A.

[0169] Flonicamid

[0170] Flonicamid in the formulation is in form of solid particle. In some embodiments, the solid particles of Flonicamid have a particle size distribution D90 of 20 microns or less. In some embodiments, the solid particles of Flonicamid have a particle size distribution D95 of 25 microns or less. In some embodiments, the solid particles of Flonicamid have a particle size distribution D99 of 30 microns or less. In some embodiments, all of the solid particles of Flonicamid have a particle size of 30 microns or less.

[0171] In some embodiments, the solid particles of Flonicamid have particle sizes between 5 to 20 microns (D90). In some embodiments, the solid particles of Flonicamid have particle sizes between 6 to 20 microns. In some embodiments, the solid particles of Flonicamid have particle sizes between 7 to 20 microns. In some embodiments, the solid particles of Flonicamid have particle sizes between 10 to 20 microns.

[0172] Agriculturally acceptable additive

[0173] In some embodiments, agriculturally acceptable additive is a compound that is known and accepted in the art for use in the formation of solid compositions for agricultural or horticultural use.

[0174] In some embodiments, when the solid composition is water dispersible solid composition such as water dispersible granules, the components of the water dispersible solid composition that disperse in the water to form solid particles have small particle sizes.

[0175] In some embodiments, solid particles of all components of the water dispersible solid composition that form solid particles in water have a particle size distribution D90 of 30 microns or less. In some embodiments, solid particles of all components of the water dispersible solid composition that form solid particles in water have a particle size distribution D90 of 25 microns or less. In some embodiments, solid particles of all components of the water dispersible solid composition that form solid particles in water have a particle size distribution D90 of 20 microns or less.

[0176] Agricultural acceptable solid carrier

[0177] In some embodiments, the agriculturally acceptable solid carrier is a solid filler.

[0178] In some embodiments, the agriculturally acceptable solid carrier is binder.

[0179] In some embodiments, the agriculturally acceptable solid carrier can function as filler and / or binder.

[0180] In some embodiments, the agriculturally acceptable solid additive is selected from the group consisting of silica, clay (Kaolin), corn starch, talc, lactose monohydrate, ammonium sulfate (binder and filler), sucrose, magnesium stearate, magnesium sulfate, sodium sulfate, ammonium sulfate, glucose, cellulose, cellulose derivatives, calcium carbonate, and any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the filler and / or binder is selected from the group consisting of silica, clay, corn starch, talc, lactose monohydrate, ammonium sulfate (binder and filler), sucrose, magnesium stearate, glucose, cellulose, calcium carbonate, and any combination thereof.

[0181] In some embodiments, the agriculturally acceptable solid additive is a combination of corn starch and kaolin.

[0182] In some embodiments, the amount of the agriculturally acceptable solid carrier(s) in the solid composition is between about 2% to about 70% w / w based on the total weight of the water dispersible solid composition.

[0183] In some embodiments, the additive is selected from the group consisting of antifoaming agent, biocides, water absorbents, water scavengers, adjuvants and any combination thereof.

[0184] In some embodiments, the composition further comprises an additional agrochemical.

[0185] In some embodiments, the additional pesticide is in its solid form.

[0186] In some embodiments, the additional pesticide, upon mixing with water, is dissolved. In some embodiments, the additional pesticide, upon mixing with water, is dispersed in the water.

[0187] In some embodiments, the additional agrochemical is pymetrozine.

[0188] In some embodiments, the additional agrochemical is pyriproxyfen.

[0189] When the water dispersible solid composition is mixed with water, at least one ingredient active ingredient and / or non-active ingredient of the water dispersible solid composition is dispersed in the water.

[0190] In some embodiments, the active ingredient is partially dispersed and partially dissolved in the water.

[0191] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a solid composition comprising:

[0192] (1) flonicamid in amount of about 15-60% w / w based on the total weight of the composition, and

[0193] (2) lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate in amount of about 3-20% w / w based on the total weight of the composition.

[0194] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a water dispersible solid composition comprising:

[0195] (1) flonicamid in amount of about 15-60% w / w based on the total weight of the composition, and

[0196] (2) lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate in amount of about 3-20% w / w based on the total weight of the composition.

[0197] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a solid composition comprising:

[0198] (1) flonicamid in amount of about 50% w / w based on the total weight of the composition, and

[0199] (2) lignosulfonate in amount of about 8% w / w based on the total weight of the composition, and

[0200] (3) alkyl naphthalene sulfonate in amount of about 3.5% w / w based on the total weight of the composition, wherein when the composition is mixed with water, the foaming level according CIPAC is less than 30 ml. In some embodiments, the present invention provides a water dispersible solid composition comprising:

[0201] (1) flonicamid in amount of about 50% w / w based on the total weight of the composition, and

[0202] (2) lignosulfonate in amount of about 8% w / w based on the total weight of the composition, and

[0203] (3) alkyl naphthalene sulfonate in amount of about 3.5% w / w based on the total weight of the composition, wherein when the composition is mixed with water, the foaming level according CIPAC is less than 30 ml.

[0204] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a solid composition comprising:

[0205] (1) flonicamid in amount of about 17% w / w based on the total weight of the composition,

[0206] (2) pymetrozine in amount of about 34% w / w based on the total weight of the composition,

[0207] (3) lignosulfonate in amount of 8% / w based on the total weight of the composition, and

[0208] (4) alkyl naphthalene sulfonate in amount of about 3.5% / w based on the total weight of the composition. wherein when the composition is mixed with water, the persistent foaming is lower than 30 ml as tested according to CIPAC MT 47.2.

[0209] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a water dispersible solid composition comprising:

[0210] (1) flonicamid in amount of about 17% w / w based on the total weight of the composition,

[0211] (2) pymetrozine in amount of about 34% w / w based on the total weight of the composition,

[0212] (3) lignosulfonate in amount of 8% / w based on the total weight of the composition, and

[0213] (4) alkyl naphthalene sulfonate in amount of about 3.5% / w based on the total weight of the composition. wherein when the composition is mixed with water, the persistent foaming is lower than 30 ml as tested according to CIPAC MT 47.2. In some embodiments, the present invention provides an aqueous composition comprising any one of the solid compositions disclosed herein and water.

[0214] In some embodiments, the flonicamid is dissolved in water.

[0215] In some embodiments, part of the flonicamid is dissolved in water and part of the flonicamid is dispersed in the water.

[0216] In some embodiments, solid particles of inactive ingredients and / or active ingredient are dispersed in water.

[0217] In some embodiments, the component in the form of solid particles is an agriculturally acceptable additive.

[0218] In some embodiments, the composition is a ready to use composition.

[0219] Ready to use composition.

[0220] The present invention provides a ready to use composition prepared from the solid compositions described herein.

[0221] The present invention provides a ready to use composition comprising the solid composition described herein and water.

[0222] In some embodiments, the ready to use composition is an aqueous composition comprising any one of the solid compositions disclosed herein.

[0223] When the solid composition of the present invention is mixed with water, the foaming persistence is lower than 30 ml as tested according to CIPAC MT 47.2.

[0224] In some embodiments, the ready to use composition comprises from about 0.05% to about 0.25% of flonicamid granules. In some embodiments, the ready to use composition comprises from about 2% to about 3% of flonicamid granules. In some embodiments, the ready to use composition comprises from about 150 ppm to about 300 ppm of flonicamid in water. In some embodiments, the applied composition comprises about 4000 ppm to 6500 ppm of flonicamid in water.

[0225] Methods of Use

[0226] The present invention also provides a method for controlling unwanted insects comprising applying an effective amount of any one of the herein described composition to a plant, a locus thereof, propagation material thereof, or an area infested with the unwanted insects so as to thereby control the unwanted insects. The present invention also provides a method for controlling plant disease caused by unwanted insect comprising applying an effective amount of any one of the herein described composition to a plant, a locus thereof, propagation material thereof, or an area infested with the unwanted insect so as to thereby control the plant disease caused by unwanted insect.

[0227] In some embodiments, the locus of the plant is the vicinity of the plant.

[0228] In some embodiments, the area infested with the unwanted insects is a plant.

[0229] In some embodiments, the plant is a pesticide sensitive crop.

[0230] In some embodiments, the method and composition are combined with additional pesticide.

[0231] In some embodiments, the additional pesticide and the present invention composition applied simultaneously.

[0232] In some embodiments, the solid composition is obtained using one of the processes of preparation described herein.

[0233] In some embodiments, the area infested with unwanted insects is a plant. In some embodiments, the area infested with unwanted insects is soil.

[0234] Controlling unwanted insects includes preventing infestation by unwanted insects and / or reducing the number of unwanted insects in the area.

[0235] In some embodiments, the method is effective for preventing infestation by unwanted insects. In some embodiments, the method is effective for reducing the number of unwanted insects.

[0236] The suspension applied for controlling unwanted insect infestation and / or plant disease may be applied as persistence treatment and / or knock down treatment. In some embodiments, the suspension is applied as a persistence treatment. In some embodiments, the suspension is applied as a knockdown treatment.

[0237] In some embodiments, the method is effective for preventing the plant disease caused by unwanted insects. In some embodiments, the method is effective for curing the plant disease caused by unwanted insects.

[0238] In some embodiments, the applied composition comprises from about 0.05% to about 0.25% of flonicamid granules. In some embodiments, the applied composition comprises from about 2% to about 3% of flonicamid granules. In some embodiments, the applied composition comprises from about 150 ppm to about 300 ppm of flonicamid in water. In some embodiments, the applied composition comprises about 4000 ppm to 6500 ppm of flonicamid in water.

[0239] In some embodiments, the suspension is applied once during a growing season.

[0240] In some embodiments, the suspension is applied at least one time during a growing season.

[0241] In some embodiments, the suspension is applied two or more times during a growing season.

[0242] In some embodiments, the combination or composition is applied to soil. In some embodiments, the combination or composition is applied to foliage.

[0243] In some embodiments, the composition is applied to soil. In some embodiments, the suspension is applied to foliage.

[0244] In some embodiments, the method comprises mixing the solid composition with water to obtain water-based composition in a water tank prior to application.

[0245] The compositions and methods described herein are particularly effective for controlling insects of, inter alia, the orders Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, Homoptera, Heteroptera, Diptera, Thysanoptera, Orthoptera, Anoplura, Siphonaptera, Mallophaga, Thysanura, Isoptera, Psocoptera and Hymenoptera, as well as representatives of the order Acarina of the families Ixodidae Argasidae, Tetranychidae and Dermanyssidae leaf rollers.

[0246] The compositions and methods described herein are also effective in controlling flies, e.g., Musca domestica, termites, cockroaches, and mosquito larvae.

[0247] The compositions and methods described herein are also suitable for controlling plant-destructive feeding insects in ornamentals and crops of useful plants, especially in cotton (e. g. against Spodoptera littoralis and Heliothis virescens) and in fruit and vegetables (e. g. against Laspeyresia pomonella, Cydia pomonella, Lithocolletis blancardella, Stigmella malella, 4doxophyes orana, Psylla piri, Cryptophlebia leucotreta, phyllocnistis citrella, Cydia molesta, Anarsia lineatella, Leptinotarsa decemlineata and Epilachna varivestis), as well as for controlling several species of mites, e. g., oleivora.

[0248] The compositions disclosed herein may be applied to control and / or prevent a variety of insect in the presence of plant. In some embodiments, the plant is a crop. In some embodiments, plant is a pesticide sensitive crop. In some embodiments, the crop is a soft crop such as vegetable and fruits.

[0249] The methods of the present invention may be used on any crop plants, including but not limited to monocotyledons such as sugar cane cereals, rice, maize (corn), and / or; or dicotyledon crop such as beets (such as sugar beet or fodder beet); fruits (such as pomes, stone fruits, or soft fruits, for example apples, pears, plums, peaches, almonds, cherries, strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries); leguminous plants (such as beans, lentils, peas, or soybeans); oil plants (such as rape, mustard, poppy, olives, sunflowers, coconut, castor oil plants, cocoa beans, or groundnuts); cucumber plants (such as marrows, cucumbers or melons); fiber plants (such as cotton, flax, hemp, or jute); citrus fruits (such as Winegrapes, oranges, lemons, grapefruit, or mandarins); vegetables (such as spinach, lettuce, cabbages, carrots, tomatoes, potatoes, cucurbits, or paprika); lauraceae (such as avocados, cinnamon, or camphor); tobacco; nuts; coffee; tea; vines; hops; durian; bananas; natural rubber plants; and ornamentals (such as flowers, shrubs, broad-leaved trees, or evergreens, for example conifers).

[0250] In some embodiments, the plants are monocotyledonous plants, more preferably, cereals. In a specific embodiment, the cereal crop is wheat. In another specific embodiment, the cereal crop is triticale. In another specific embodiment, the cereal crop is rye. In another specific embodiment, the cereal crop is oat. In a further embodiment, the cereal crop is barley. In another embodiment, the crop plants are rice plants. In still another embodiment, the crop plants are sugar cane plants. In yet another embodiment, the crop plants are corn plants. In some embodiments the crop is rice. In some embodiments the crop is sugar beet. In some embodiments the crop is apple. In some embodiments the crop is rape. In some embodiments the crop is cotton. In some embodiments the crop is winegrapes.

[0251] The compositions and methods described herein are further effective for controlling ectoparasites such as Lucilia sericata, in domestic animals and productive livestock, e. g. by treating animals' skin, cowsheds, barns, stables etc., and pastures.

[0252] According to a particular embodiment of the present method, the pesticidal composition is used to prepare a tank mix which is then applied via spraying to the area or crop needing treatment. The active ingredient concentration in the tank mix is adjusted to the particular application, depending on agricultural or non-agricultural application, the crop and the pest. Although various methods of application may be employed as the skilled artisan may appreciate, spraying is the preferred method of application. In some embodiments, the method comprises applying the composition in conjunction with other pest control agents, either in a mixture or by sequential application. Examples of suitable additional pesticides include organophosphorus compounds, nitrophenols and derivatives thereof, formamidines, ureas, carbamates, pyrethroids, and chlorinated hydrocarbons preparations.

[0253] The present invention provides a method for controlling insect on or around pesticide sensitive crop, comprising contacting a crop, a locus thereof or propagation material thereof with an effective amount of any composition disclosed herein, so as to thereby control the insect.

[0254] The present invention provides a solid composition comprising flonicamid for controlling unwanted insects.

[0255] The present invention provides a water dispersible solid composition comprising flonicamid for controlling plant disease caused by unwanted insect.

[0256] The present invention provides a soluble solid composition comprising flonicamid for controlling plant disease caused by unwanted insect.

[0257] The invention also provides methods of treating a plant, or a part of a plant, against insect, comprising contacting the plant, part of the plant, locus of the pest, soil, and / or an area in which pest infestation is to be prevented with any one of the compositions described herein.

[0258] In some embodiments, treating comprises protecting the plant, or a part of the plant, against the pest.

[0259] In some embodiments, treating comprises preventing, reducing and / or eliminating the presence of a pest locus of the plant, on the plant, or a part of the plant.

[0260] In some embodiments, treating comprises controlling diseases caused by insect in the plant, or a part of the plant.

[0261] In some embodiments, treating comprises improving the control of the disease caused by insect in the plant, or a part of the plant.

[0262] The invention also provides a method of increasing crop yield comprising contacting the crop plant, part of the plant, locus of the insect associated with the crop, soil, and / or an area in which insect infestation is to be prevented with any one of the combinations.

[0263] The invention also provides a method of improving plant vigour comprising contacting the plant, part of the plant, locus of the pest associated with the plant, soil, and / or an area in which pest infestation is to be prevented with any one of the combinations. The present invention also provides a method for pest control by preventive, curative or persistence treatments of a plant disease caused by pest comprising contacting a plant, a locus thereof or propagation material thereof with an effective amount of any one of the combinations disclosed herein.

[0264] The present invention also provides use of any one of the compositions described herein for treating a plant, or a part of a plant, against a pest.

[0265] The present invention also provides use of any one of the compositions described herein for increasing crop yield.

[0266] The present invention also provides use of any one of the compositions described herein for improving plant vigor.

[0267] A composition according to the invention is suitable for the preferably selective control of susceptible pests that are encountered in horticulture, agriculture, and forestry.

[0268] Preferably the control is selective control of unwanted insect pests while leaving useful invertebrates unharmed. Of particular note is the selective control of plant-sap- sucking Hemipteran and Homopteran insects including aphids, whiteflies and planthoppers.

[0269] Application to areas infested with the unwanted insects including structures are contemplated too.

[0270] In some embodiments, the composition is a concentrate which is intended or otherwise adapted, designed, packaged etc., to be diluted before application. In some embodiments, the inventive concentrate is intended or otherwise adapted, designed, packaged etc., to be diluted with water and other components such as adjuvants and / or further agriculturally useful or active compounds, in a tank mix before application.

[0271] In some embodiments, the dilution rate is low dilution rate for use in drone application sometimes referred to as LV (low volume), or ULV, such as 2% w / w or less of the present invention composition and 98% w / w of water. In some embodiments, the dilution rate is high dilution rate such as 0.5% composition, 0.25 or less of the present invention composition and water complete to 100% w / w% .

[0272] To control agricultural pests, the invention provides a use of the composition according to the invention for the protection of a plant, or a part of a plant, against a pest. In order to achieve the desired effect, said plant or plant part, or a soil, is contacted with the composition. Said composition is used, for example, to control plant-sap-sucking Hemipteran and Homopteran insects including aphids, whiteflies and planthoppers exemplified perhaps by Cotton aphids Aphis gossyp / / found on more than 700 plant species. Crop plants attacked by this aphid include cotton, citrus, coffee, cocoa, eggplant, cucumber, melon, pepper and many ornamental plants such as chrysanthemum and kalanchoe. Of particular note is the selective control of Hemipteran and Homopteran insects which does not adversely affect useful invertebrates. These are often a pest in greenhouses too.

[0273] For said above uses and said methods, the composition is applied by being sprayed over a plant, soil, structures in which plants are cultivated or plant parts thereof. Spraying applications using automatic systems are known to reduce labor costs and are cost-effective. Methods and equipment well-known to a person skilled in the art can be used for that purpose. The composition, including diluted aqueous composition, can be regularly sprayed, when the risk of infection is high. When the risk of infection is lower, spray intervals may be longer.

[0274] Other methods suitable for contacting plants or parts thereof with the combination, suspension and / or mixture of the invention are also a part of the present invention. These include, but are not limited to, dipping, watering, drenching, introduction into a dump tank, vaporizing, atomizing, fogging, fumigating, painting, brushing, misting, dusting, foaming, spreading-on, packaging and coating for example by means of wax or electrostatically, and other techniques well known in the art. In addition, combination, suspension and / or mixture may be injected into the soil.

[0275] In some embodiments, the insect is any of plant-sap-sucking Hemipteran and Homopteran insects including aphids, whiteflies and planthoppers, exemplified perhaps by Cotton aphids Aphis gossypii found on more than 700 plant species. Crop plants attacked by this aphid include cotton, citrus, coffee, cocoa, eggplant, cucumber, melon, pepper and many ornamental plants such as chrysanthemum and kalanchoe. Of particular note is the selective control of Hemipteran and Homopteran insects which does not adversely affect useful invertebrates. These pests are often a pest in greenhouses too.

[0276] In some embodiments, the pesticide is applied at a rate effective for controlling a pest. In some embodiments, the pesticide is applied at a rate effective for preventing infestation or infection by the pest. In some embodiments, the pesticide is applied at a rate effective for curing or removing the infestation or infection by the pest.

[0277] In some embodiments, the combination or composition comprising the combination is sprayed over a plant or a part of a plant.

[0278] In some embodiments, the combination or composition comprising the combination is sprayed in a green house.

[0279] In some embodiments, the plant part is leaf, seed or / and fruit.

[0280] In some embodiments, the composition is applied as a foliar application. In some embodiments, the composition is applied as a soil application. In some embodiments, the composition is tank mixed with an additional agrochemical. In some embodiments, the composition is applied sequentially with the additional agrochemical.

[0281] In some embodiments, the composition is tank mixed with an additional adjuvant. In some embodiments, the composition is applied sequentially, separately, or simultaneously with additional adjuvant.

[0282] Preparation of Solid Composition

[0283] The present invention provides a process for preparing a water dispersible solid or water soluble composition comprising flonicamid, the process comprising (1) mixing flonicamid, at least one lignosulfonate, at least one alkylarylsulfonate and optionally additional active ingredient in solid form with at least one agriculturally acceptable additive in solid form to prepare a pre-mix, (2) milling the premix of step (1) to prepare a milled blend, (3) wetting the milled blend with a wetting liquid, (4) perform wet granulation and drying.

[0284] The present invention provides a process for preparing a water dispersible solid or water soluble composition comprising flonicamid, the process comprising (1) mixing flonicamid, at least one lignosulfonate and / or at least one alkylarylsulfonate and optionally additional active ingredient in solid form with at least one agriculturally acceptable additive in solid form to prepare a pre-mix, (2) milling the premix of step (1) to prepare a milled blend, (3) wetting the milled blend with a wetting liquid, (4) perform wet granulation and drying.

[0285] The present invention provides a process for preparing a water dispersible solid or water soluble composition comprising flonicamid, the process comprising (1) mixing flonicamid, at least one additive selected from group consisting of lignosulfonate, and alkylarylsulfonate and optionally additional active ingredient in solid form with at least one agriculturally acceptable additive in solid form to prepare a pre-mix, (2) milling the premix of step (1) to prepare a milled blend, (3) wetting the milled blend with a wetting liquid, (4) perform wet granulation and drying.

[0286] In some embodiments, the process further comprises adding anti foaming agent.

[0287] In some embodiments, the process further comprises addition of additional acceptable additives include, but are not limited to, dispersing agent(s), wetting agent(s), anti-foaming agent(s), biocide(s), water absorbent(s), water scavenger(s), adjuvant(s) and any combination thereof.

[0288] In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d90 of 30 microns or less. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d90 of 25 microns or less. In

[0289] T1 some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d90 of 20 microns or less. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d95 of 35 microns or less. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d99 of 40 microns or less.

[0290] In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d90 of between 5 to 30 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d90 of between 5 to 20 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d90 of between 6 to 20 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d90 of between 7 to 20 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d90 of between 10 to 20 microns.

[0291] In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d95 between 5 to 35 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d95 between 5 to 20 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d95 between 6 to 35 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d95 between

[0292] 6 to 20 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d95 between 7 to 35 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d95 between

[0293] 7 to 20 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d95 of between 10 to 20 microns.

[0294] In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d99 between 5 to 40 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d99 between 5 to 20 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d99 between 6 to 40 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d99 between

[0295] 6 to 20 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d99 between 7 to 40 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d99 between

[0296] 7 to 20 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled to a particle size distribution d99 between 10 to 20 microns.

[0297] In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled such that all particles have a particle size between 5 to 45 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled such that all particles have a particle size between 5 to 20 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled such that all particles have a particle size between 6 to 45 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled such that all particles have a particle size between 6 to 20 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled such that all particles have a particle size between 7 to 45 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled such that all particles have a particle size between 7 to 20 microns. In some embodiments, the solid components of the premix are milled such that all particles have a particle size between 10 to 20 microns.

[0298] In some embodiments, the additive is agriculturally acceptable solid carrier.

[0299] In some embodiments, the additive is insoluble in water.

[0300] In some embodiments the additive is soluble in water.

[0301] In some embodiments, the wetting liquid is a water-based wetting solution comprising modified acrylic copolymer surfactant.

[0302] In some embodiments, the wetting liquid is a combination of (1) a water-based wetting solution comprising modified acrylic copolymer surfactant, and (2) water. In some embodiments, the water-based solution comprising modified acrylic copolymer surfactant is added first followed by additional amount of water. In some embodiments, the additional water is added after adding the water-based wetting solution comprising modified acrylic copolymer surfactant.

[0303] In some embodiments, the process further comprises addition of water prior step (4).

[0304] The present invention provides a process for preparing water dispersible solid composition comprising flonicamid, the process comprising (1) preparing a mixture of flonicamid having particle size of 10 to 20 microns with at least one lignosulfonate and at least one alkylarylsulfonate and optionally a solid additive, (2) wet granulation of the mixture of step (1) using a water-based wetting liquid optionally comprising modified acrylic copolymer surfactant to obtain a wetted solid composition, and (4) drying the obtained wetted solid composition.

[0305] In some embodiments, the wetted solid composition is in the form of granules.

[0306] In some embodiments, water is used for wet granulation. In some embodiments, the amount of water used for wet granulation is between 7 to 20% w / w based on the total weight of the wetted solid composition before drying (during preparation). In some embodiments, the amount of water used for wet granulation is about 8.5% w / w based on the total weight of the wetted solid composition before drying (during preparation). In some embodiments, part of the amount of water for wet granulation is added as a solution of water and modified acrylic copolymer surfactant.

[0307] In some embodiments, the modified acrylic copolymer surfactant is added during the wetting step of granulation.

[0308] In some embodiments, the wet granulation is performed by extrusion process.

[0309] In some embodiments, the wet granulation is pan granulation.

[0310] In some embodiment, the wetting liquid is sprayed onto the mixture of step (2) to obtain granules.

[0311] In some embodiments, the granules are dried using a fluidized bed.

[0312] In some embodiments, the granules are dried by lyophilization of the remaining solution.

[0313] In some embodiments, the granules are dried by spray-drying.

[0314] In some embodiments, the granules are dried by freeze-drying.

[0315] In some embodiments, the granules are dried by diafiltration.

[0316] In some embodiments, the granules are dried by dialysis.

[0317] In some embodiments, the granules are dried by vacuum drying.

[0318] In some embodiments, the granules are dried by heat drying.

[0319] The present invention provides a process for preparing a solid composition comprising flonicamid, the process comprising (1) mixing flonicamid, at least one lignosulfonate and at least one alkylarylsulfonate in solid form with at least one agriculturally acceptable additive in solid form to prepare a pre-mix, (2) milling the premix of step (1) to prepare a milled blend, (3) wetting the milled blend with a wetting liquid, (4) perform wet granulation and drying.

[0320] In some embodiments, the agriculturally acceptable additive is selected from the group consisting of dispersing agent, wetting agent, filler, binder, anti-foaming agent, biocides, water absorbents, water scavengers, adjuvants, and any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the agriculturally acceptable additive is selected from the group consisting of dispersing agent, wetting agent, filler, binder, and any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the agriculturally acceptable additive is a dispersing agent. In some embodiments, the agriculturally acceptable additive is a wetting agent. In some embodiments, the agriculturally acceptable additive is a filler. In some embodiments, the agriculturally acceptable additive is a binder.

[0321] The agriculturally acceptable additive in solid form, i.e., agriculturally acceptable solid additive, is combined with the flonicamid in solid form to prepare a premix and milled to the desired particle size distribution.

[0322] Additional Agrochemical

[0323] With reference to the inventive solid composition, the term additional agrochemical, refers to any or all of fungicide, herbicide, insecticide, nematicide, biocide, and the like.

[0324] In some embodiments, the additional agrochemical is pymetrozine, pyridaben, Imicyafos, Thiacloprid, Ethiprole, Ethion, Thiamethoxam, imidacloprid, fenoxycarb, mobucin, nitenpyram, abamectin, buprofezin, pyriproxyfen, etofenprox or acetamiprid, of note are the combinations of pymetrozine and the inventive flonicamid compositions herein disclosed. To the extent that the added agrochemical can be combined without losing the advantages attained by this invention.

[0325] In some embodiments, the additional agrochemical is pymetrozine.

[0326] In some embodiments, the additional agrochemical is pyriproxyfen.

[0327] When the additional agrochemical is pymetrozine, the ratio between Pymetrozine and flonicamid is typically from about 1:2 to about 6:1, and preferably from about 2:1 to about 3:2.

[0328] When the additional agrochemical is pyriproxyfen, the ratio between pyriproxyfen and flonicamid is typically from about 1:2 to about 6:1, and preferably from about 2:1 to about 3:2.

[0329] Package and Kit

[0330] The present invention provides a package comprising any one of the solid compositions described herein, wherein the solid composition comprises lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate solid composition for formulating solid composition comprises flonicamid.

[0331] Each embodiment disclosed herein is contemplated as being applicable to each of the other disclosed embodiments. Thus, all combinations of the various elements described herein are within the scope of the invention. In addition, the elements recited in combination and / or composition embodiments can be used in the suspension, method, use, process and package embodiments described herein and vice versa.

[0332] In addition, when lists are provided, the list is to be considered as a disclosure of any one member of the list.

[0333] This invention will be better understood by reference to the Experimental Details which follow, but those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the specific experiments detailed are only illustrative of the invention as described more fully in the claims which follow thereafter.

[0334] The invention is illustrated by the following examples without limiting it thereby.

[0335] Experimental Section:

[0336] General procedure for preparing Flonicamid 500 SG (water soluble solid composition in the form of granules), Flonicamid 500 WDG (water dispersible solid composition in the form of granules) and Pymetrozine 340 flonicamid 170 WDG (water dispersible solid composition in the form of granules) are summarized below.

[0337] Preparing premix: All solid ingredients (active ingredients, wetting agents, dispersing agents, solid antifoam agents, binders, and fillers) were mixed.

[0338] Milling: The premix was milled to the required particle size distribution of d90< 20p.

[0339] Post blending: the milled premix was blended.

[0340] Preparation of "wetting liquid": liquid additives (Atlox 4913 and antifoaming agents) and water (water amount is 6% w / w based on the weight of the wetted solid composition) was mixed for few minutes.

[0341] Dough preparation: the blended milled premix was wetted with all the "wetting liquid" and then additional water was added up 8% w / w based on the weight of the wetted solid composition for granulation.

[0342] Granulation: Dough was granulated by extrusion granulation using a basket extruder equipped with 1.2 mm diameter screen.

[0343] Drying: granules were dried in fluidized bed dryer for 20 min at 60 °C.

[0344] Example 1: Flonicamid 50% solid composition, granules

[0345] Properties:

[0346] Example 2: Flonicamid 50% solid composition, granules

[0347] Properties:

[0348] Example 3: Flonicamid 50% SG

[0349] Properties:

[0350] Example 4: Flonicamid 50% WPG

[0351] Properties:

[0352] Example 5: Flonicamid 17% Pymetrozin 34% WPG

[0353] Properties:

[0354] Example 6: an example for composition with lignosulfonate

[0355] Example 7: an example for composition with alkyl aryl sulfonate

[0356] Example 8-10, flonicamid compositions without alkyl aryl sulfonate and lignosulfonate

[0357] Example 8:

[0358] Flonicamid WDG compositions with carboxylate dispersing agent and Dioctyl sulfosuccinate as wetting agents.

[0359] Table A:

[0360] Example 9 (i; ii) :

[0361] Table B

[0362] Example 10:

[0363] Table C:

[0364] Stability tests

[0365] CIPAC method for the determination of persistence foaming is MT47.2

[0366] Persistence foam (MT 47.2)

[0367] 4 gr granules added to 200 ml water D (2%) in 250 ml cylinder, the cylinder is inverted 30 times (up to 180° and back for approximately 2 seconds each time). The volume of the formed foam is measured after 1 minute.

[0368] CIPAC method for the determination of dispersibility

[0369] Number of inversions

[0370] 10 gr sample and 90 ml of water are added to a 250 ml cylinder, the cylinder is flipped a pace of 30 flips per minute until all granules disintegrates, while counting the required number of inversions

[0371] WSR (wet sieve residues) (MT 185)

[0372] Slurry preparation: 10 gr granules are added to 100 ml tap water in 250 ml beaker and stirred for 5 minutes.

[0373] Wet sieve test: The slurry is poured into a 75p sieve, the sieve is then washed by water stream for 10 minutes, residues are collected, dried at 40°C until constant weight.

[0374] WSR is the amount of residue out of the granules weighed.

[0375] Suspensibility (MT 184.1)

[0376] Add an amount (for testing at 0.7%, add 1.75 gr) granules to 200 ml water D in 250 ml cylinder, add water D up to 250 ml, mix by inverting the cylinder 30 times and leave for 30 minutes. Suck the top 225 ml with a suction tube, taking care not to agitate or mix the sediment in the cylinder, collect the remaining 25 ml into a volumetric cylinder and analyze the amount of active ingredient.

[0377] Calculate suspensibility: te-j=%susp

[0378] W stands for Mass of the tested sample (in gr)

[0379] Q stands for Mass of active ingredient as found in the analysis (in gr)

[0380] A stand for Concentration of Active ingredient in the granules (W / W %).

[0381] Dispersibility (MT 174)

[0382] A sample of 9 grams (±0.1 g) granules is added to 900 ml stirred water and continue the stirring for 1 min. then the suspension is allowed to stand undisturbed for 1 min.

[0383] Withdraw 810 ml of the suspension with vacuum pump in 30 to 60 secs with minimum disturbance. Determine by gravimetric means the solids obtained in the remaining 90 ml in the beaker by evaporating the liquid, either with water bath or hot air oven at 60-70 °C.

[0384] Dispersibility (%, w / w)

[0385] (M-W)*10) / (M*9)(

[0386] Where:

[0387] M = mass of sample taken (g)

[0388] W = mass of residue after drying (g)

Claims

Claims1. A solid composition comprising (1) flonicamid, (2) at least one lignosulfonate and / or at least one alkyl aryl sulfonate and (3) agricultural acceptable solid carrier.

2. A solid composition comprising (1) flonicamid, (2) combination of at least one lignosulfonate and at least one alkyl aryl sulfonate and (3) agricultural acceptable solid carrier.

3. The composition of claim 1 or 2, wherein when the composition is mixed with water, the foaming persistence is equal to or lower than about 60 ml when tested according to CIPAC Test MT47.

24. The composition of claim 3 wherein when the composition is mixed with water, the foaming persistence is equal to or lower than 30 ml when tested according to CIPAC Test MT47.

25. The composition of anyone of claims 1 -4, wherein the composition is in the form of granules.

6. The composition of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the granules are water dispersible granules.

7. The composition of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the amount of flonicamid in the solid composition is between about 10% to about 95% w / w based on the total weight of the composition.

8. The composition of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the amount of lignosulfonate in the solid composition is between about 2% to about 20% w / w based on the total weight of the composition.

9. The composition of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the amount of alkyl aryl sulfonate agent in the solid composition is between about 0.01% to about 10% w / w based on the total weight of the composition.

10. The composition of any one of claims 1-9, wherein the weight ratio between the lignosulfonate and the alkyl aryl sulfonate is between 10:1 to 1:1.

11. The composition of claim 10, wherein the ratio between the lignosulfonate and the alkyl aryl sulfonate is 8:3.5.

12. The composition of any one of claims 1-11, wherein the weight ratio between the flonicamid and the combination of the lignosulfonate and the alkyl aryl sulfonate is between 1:1 and 5:1.

13. The composition of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the composition further comprising antifoaming agent.

14. The composition of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the composition further comprising a modified acrylic copolymer.

15. The composition of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the composition further comprises an agriculturally acceptable additive selected from the group consisting of dispersing agent(s), wetting agent(s), anti-foaming agent(s), biocide(s), water absorbent(s), water scavenger(s), adjuvant(s), or any combination thereof.

16. The composition of claim 15, wherein at least one agriculturally acceptable additive is in the form of solid particles and the solid particles have a particle size distribution d90 of 20 microns or less.

17. The composition of any one of claims 1-14, further comprises additional pesticide.

18. The composition of claim 17, wherein the additional pesticide is pymetrozine.

19. The composition of claim 18 wherein the ratio of pymetrozine to flonicamid in 3:2.

20. The composition of claim 19 wherein the ratio of pymetrozine to flonicamid in 2:1.

21. An aqueous composition comprising the solid composition of any one of claims 1-20 and water.

22. The composition of claim 21, wherein: a. the flonicamid is dissolved in water, or b. part of the flonicamid is dissolved in water and part of the flonicamid is dispersed in the water.

23. The composition of claim 21 or 22, wherein solid particles of inactive ingredients and / or active ingredient are dispersed in water.

24. The composition of claim 23, wherein the component in the form of solid particles is an agriculturally acceptable additive.

25. The composition of any one of claims 21-24 wherein the composition is a ready to use composition.

26. A method for controlling unwanted insects comprising applying an effective amount of the composition of any one of claims 1-25 to a plant, a locus thereof, propagation material thereof, or an area infested with the unwanted insects so as to thereby control the unwanted insects.

27. A method for controlling plant disease caused by unwanted insect comprising applying an effective amount of the composition of any one of claims 1-25 to a plant, a locus thereof, propagation material thereof, or an area infested with the unwanted insect so as to thereby control the plant disease caused by unwanted insect.

28. A process for preparing a water dispersible or water soluble solid composition comprising flonicamid, the process comprising (1) mixing flonicamid, at least one lignosulfonate, at least one alkylarylsulfonate and optionally additional active ingredient in solid form with at least one agriculturally acceptable additive in solid form to prepare a pre-mix, (2) milling the premix of step (1) to prepare a milled blend, (3) wetting the milled blend with a wetting liquid, (4) performing wet granulation and drying.

29. A process for preparing a water dispersible solid or water soluble composition comprising flonicamid, the process comprising (1) mixing flonicamid, at least one lignosulfonate and / or at least one alkylarylsulfonate and optionally additional active ingredient in solid form with at least one agriculturally acceptable additive in solid form to prepare a pre-mix, (2) milling the premix of step (1) to prepare a milled blend, (3) wetting the milled blend with a wetting liquid, (4) perform wet granulation and drying30. Use of at least one additive selected from group consisting of lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate for reducing or eliminating the rate and / or extent of foaming of a composition comprising flonicamid upon mixing with water, wherein the rate and / or extent of foaming when the flonicamid is formulated in absence of the additive selected from group consisting of lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate is higher compared to the rate and / or extent of foaming when the solid composition comprising flonicamid in the same amount is formulated in presence additive selected from group consisting of lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate.

31. Use of combination of lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate for reducing or eliminating the rate and / or extent of foaming of a composition comprising flonicamid upon mixing with water, wherein the rate and / or extent of foaming when the flonicamid is formulated in absence of the combination is higher compared to the rate and / or extent of foaming when the solid compositioncomprising flonicamid in the same amount is formulated in presence of lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate.

32. Use of lignosulfonate and / or alkyl aryl sulfonate for reducing or eliminating the rate and / or extent of foaming of composition comprising flonicamid upon mixing with water, wherein the rate and / or extent of foaming when the flonicamid is formulated in presence of lignosulfonate and / or alkyl aryl sulfonate is reduced compared to the rate and / or extent of foam when the solid composition comprising flonicamid in the same amount is formulated in absence of lignosulfonate and / or alkyl aryl sulfonate33. The use of claim 31 or claim 32 wherein the rate / extent of foaming is measured according to CIPAC Test MT47.2.

34. The use of claim 33 wherein the rate / extent of foaming is reduced by at least 50 % compared to a flonicamid composition not comprising said combination of lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate.

35. Use of a lignosulfonate and alkyl aryl sulfonate for formulating solid compositions comprising flonicamid.

Images