Glufosinate-ammonium herbicide liquid compositions

Abstract

The agrochemical liquid composition described in this invention comprises an electrostatic complex of anionic herbicide, i.e., glufosinate-ammonium and C6-C24- alkylamine, and its composition with other auxiliary agents that stabilize the complex. After dilution with water, this composition forms a liquid crystal system, which improves the penetration of the glufosinate-ammonium on the hydrophobic layer of the invading weeds and / or grass. This invention specifically pertains to an agrochemical liquid composition containing glufosinate-ammonium, its preparation method, and its use for controlling and protecting crops from unwanted weeds and / or grass.

Description

[0001] TITLE: NOVEL GLUFOSINATE-AMMONIUM HERBICIDE LIQUID COMPOSITIONS

[0002] FIELD OF INVENTION:

[0003] Agrochemical liquid composition comprising an electrostatic complex of anionic herbicide, i.e., glufosinate-ammonium and C6-C24-alkylamine, and other auxiliary agents that stabilize said complex; wherein said agrochemical composition converts to a liquid crystals system after dilution with water, thereby enhancing the penetration characteristics of glufosinate-ammonium herbicide on the hydrophobic layer of the invading weeds and / or grass. The present invention particularly relates method of preparation of agrochemical liquid compositions comprising an electrostatic complex of anionic herbicide, i.e., glufosinate-ammonium and C6-C24-alkylamine, and its method of use for controlling and protecting crops against undesired weeds and / or grass.

[0004] SUMMARY:

[0005] The present invention is directed to an electrostatic complex of glufosinate-ammonium and primary C6-C24-alkylamine.

[0006] The present invention is also directed to an agrochemical liquid composition comprising: a) glufosinate-ammonium in amount of from 1% to 50% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, b) at least one primary C6-C24-alkylamine in amount of from 0.1% to 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, c) at least one compound of formula (I)

[0007] O

[0008] R'\yR!wherein, R1is C6-C24-alkyl; and R2is Cl-C6-alkyl; in amount of from 1% to 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, d) at least one nonionic surfactant selected from the group of ethoxylated fatty acid alkyl esters, triglyceride ethoxylated fatty acid esters, sorbitan ethoxylated fatty acid esters, ethoxylated fatty alcohols, ethylene oxidepropylene oxide (EO-PO) block copolymers and derivative thereof, in amount of from 5% to 40% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, e) at least one organic solvent in amount of from 10% to 90% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, and f) water.

[0009] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to an agrochemical liquid composition comprising: 1) electrostatic complex of a) glufosinate-ammonium in amount between 1% to 50% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, and at least one b) primary C6-C24-alkylamine in amount of from 0.1% to 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, 2) at least one c) compound of formula (I)

[0010] O

[0011] R0'R2wherein, R1is C6-C24-alkyl; and R2is Cl-C6-alkyl; in amount of from 1% to 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, at least one d) nonionic surfactant selected from the group consisting of ethoxylated fatty acid alkyl esters, ethoxylated fatty acid triglyceride esters, sorbitan ethoxylated fatty acid esters, ethoxylated fatty alcohols, ethylene oxide-propylene oxide (EO-PO) block copolymers and derivative thereof, in amount of from 5% to 40% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, at least one e) organic solvent in amount of from 10% to 90% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, and f) water, wherein its stability index is from 0.001 to 0.1.

[0012] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for preparing the liquid composition according to any one of claims 3-24, comprising: (i) preparation of aqueous phase by mixing of glufosinate-ammonium a) and water f) at a temperature of from 40°C to 90°C, (ii) preparing of organic phase by mixing of primary C6-C24-alkylamine b), compound of formula (I) c), nonionic surfactant d), and organic solvent e) at a temperature of from 40°C to 90°C, (iii) addition of the aqueous phase obtained in (i) to an organic phase obtained in (ii) and mixing until homogenization. According to another aspect, the present invention relates to an aqueous agrochemical composition of glufosinate-ammonium comprising normal direct nanomicelles or reversed inverted nanomicelles.

[0013] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to an aqueous agrochemical composition of glufosinate-ammonium comprising liquid-crystal system.

[0014] According to another aspect, the present invention is further directed to a method for controlling weeds and / or grass in crops, comprising applying to a locus, where the weeds and / or grass grow, an effective amount of the above-mentioned agrochemical liquid composition.

[0015] According to another aspect the present invention is further directed to a method for protecting crop propagation material from weeds and / or grass comprising applying to a locus, where the weeds and / or grass grow an effective amount of the above-mentioned agrochemical liquid composition.

[0016] BACKGROUND:

[0017] Unwanted herbs or weeds can cause various damages in the agriculture field impacting negatively crop yield, quality, and overall farm productivity. Some of the significant damages caused by weeds in agriculture include competition for resources such as water, nutrients, sunlight, and space. This competition can lead to reduced crop growth and yield, as the weeds outcompete the cultivated plants. Unwanted herbs or weeds can decrease crop quality by contaminating harvested product or introducing unwanted seeds. Weeds can serve as hosts for various pests and diseases that may affect both the weeds themselves and nearby crops.

[0018] To mitigate these damages, farmers employ various weed control strategies, including the use of herbicides, cultivation practices, cover crops, and integrated pest management techniques. Implementing effective weed management practices is crucial for sustaining agricultural productivity and ensuring the success of crop cultivation. Herbicides are chemical substances or compounds used to control or kill unwanted plants, commonly referred to as weeds. These chemicals are a type of pesticide specifically designed to target and manage the growth of undesirable vegetation in agricultural, garden, and landscaping settings. Herbicides work by interfering with various aspects of plant growth and development, such as disrupting photosynthesis, inhibiting enzyme activity, or interfering with the plant's hormonal balance.

[0019] There are different types of herbicides, classified based on their mode of action, chemical composition, and target plants. Herbicides can be selective, targeting specific types of plants while leaving others unharmed, or non-selective, affecting a broad range of plant species. Farmers, gardeners, and land managers use herbicides as part of their weed control strategies to enhance crop yields, maintain landscape aesthetics, and manage invasive plant species.

[0020] It's important to use herbicides responsibly, following guidelines and recommendations, to minimize environmental impact and potential harm to non-target organisms. Additionally, integrated weed management approaches, combining cultural, mechanical, and chemical methods, are often employed for sustainable and effective weed control.

[0021] Among known herbicides, water soluble anionic herbicides are being used extensively. Glufosinate-ammonium, for example, is one of the best and common anionic herbicides and it is extensively used to control a variety of weeds and grass. Glufosinate-ammonium works by inhibiting an enzyme called glutamine synthetase, which is essential for the production of certain amino acids in plants. Without these amino acids, the plants experience disrupted protein synthesis and eventually die.

[0022] Glufosinate-ammonium herbicide is effective against both broadleaf weeds and grass, making it a non-selective herbicide. It is commonly used in various crops such as corn, soybeans, canola, and cotton, as well as in non-crop areas like orchards, vineyards, and along roadsides. While glufosinate-ammonium herbicide is widely used, it is essential to minimize its environmental impact. To overcome this challenge, the glufosinate-ammonium herbicide is usually formulated in a system which comprises chemical non-active ingredients that enhance the ability of the glufosinate-ammonium to remain in a water solution and penetrate more easily and effectively to the target plant. The formulation system provides, apart from the spraying application and higher effectiveness, eases of storage and increase stability over time.

[0023] In recent years, many patents and patent applications that were published, disclosed the formulation of glufosinate-ammonium herbicide and other herbicides for the use in the agriculture field, e.g., WO2023 / 233303, WO2022 / 187413, WO2018 / 078478,

[0024] WO2015 / 091472, WO2015 / 114483, W02013 / 040006, W02012 / 021164,

[0025] WO / 2024121638. Due to the glufosinate-ammonium herbicides hydrophilic characteristics, many of its formulation systems are aqueous based system. Oil-based system or emulsion system, although having high adhesiveness and enhancing penetration advantages, were less compatible with glufosinate-ammonium herbicides leading to phases separation, precipitation, and general instability of the formulation system at ambient conditions.

[0026] In order to achieve the above-mentioned advantages, one can emphasize that there is more room and need to develop new oil-based system or emulsion system compositions of glufosinate-ammonium herbicides and other anionic herbicides, with different concentrations that is efficient against undesired weeds and / or grass and stable at ambient conditions.

[0027] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION:

[0028] Definitions:

[0029] 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 pertains. The following definitions are provided for clarity.

[0030] 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.

[0031] As used herein, the verb "comprise" as is used in this description and in the claims and its conjugations are used in its non-limiting sense to mean that items following the word are included, but items not specifically mentioned are not excluded.

[0032] The term "alkyl" as used herein refers to many possible substitutions. An acyclic alkyl has the general formula of -CnH2n+l. A cycloalkyl group is derived from a cycloalkane by removal of a hydrogen atom from a ring and has the general formula -CnH2n-l. Acyclic alkyl could be linear or branched chain.

[0033] The term "alkoxy," as used herein refers to an alkyl group attached to the parent molecular moiety through an oxygen atom.

[0034] The term "primary alky amine" as use herein refers to an alkyl group as define above attached to a nitrogen comprises two hydrogen atoms.

[0035] The term "stabilizer" as used herein refers but not limited to a chemical agent that is added to a composition and exhibiting a satisfactory stabilization effect on the combination of other inert and active ingredient / s contained in the present agricultural chemical composition, without any adverse influence on the physical properties of the composition.

[0036] As used herein, the term "effective amount" refers to an amount of the active component that is commercially recommended for use to control and / or prevent pest. The commercially recommended amount for each active component, often specified as application rates of the commercial formulation, may be found on the label accompanying the commercial formulation. The commercially recommended application rates of the commercial formulation may vary depending on factors such as the plant species and the pest to be controlled.

[0037] As used herein, the term "anionic herbicide" refers to pesticide molecules / compound which comprises a group of one or more negative electrostatic charges.

[0038] As used herein, the term "liquid composition" refers to compositions comprising a single stable continuous homogeneous transparent phase two immiscible liquids: oil and water, solubilized and stabilized by at least one emulsifying agent.

[0039] As used herein, the term "direct nanomicelles" are nanoscale, self-assembling structures formed by amphiphilic molecules (molecules with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic parts) when dispersed in an aqueous environment.

[0040] As used herein, the term "reverse nanomicelles" are nanoscale structures that form in non-polar (oil-like) environments, where amphiphilic molecules organize in the opposite manner compared to direct nanomicelles. In reverse nanomicelles, the hydrophilic (water-attracting) part of the molecule is buried in the interior, forming a water-filled core, while the hydrophobic (water-repelling) part faces outward, interacting with the surrounding non-polar medium.

[0041] As used herein, the term "liquid crystals" are substances that exhibit properties between those of conventional liquids and solid crystals. They flow like liquids but have some degree of ordered molecular arrangement, like crystals. This intermediate phase is called the mesophase and is characterized by the ability of molecules to align in a certain direction while still maintaining fluidity.

[0042] As used herein the term "pesticide" refers to any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating pests.

[0043] The term "herbicide" is used herein to mean an active ingredient that kills, controls or otherwise adversely modifies the growth of plants. For chemical classes and applications, as well as specific compounds of each class, see "The Pesticide Manual Thirteenth Edition" (British Crop Protection Council, Hampshire, UK, 2003), as well as "The e-Pesticide Manual, Version 3" (British Crop Protection Council, Hampshire, UK, 2003-04), the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0044] As used herein the term "plant" or "crop" refers, but is not limited to whole plants, plant organs (e.g., leaves, stems, twigs, roots, trunks, limbs, shoots, fruits etc.), plant cells, or plant seeds. This term also encompasses plant crops such as fruits and vegetables. In some embodiments, the term "plant" may include the propagation material thereof, which may include all the generative parts of the plant such as seeds and vegetative plant material such as cuttings and tubers, which can be used forthe multiplication of the plant. This includes seeds, tubers, spores, corms, bulbs, rhizomes, sprouts basal shoots, stolons, and buds and other parts of plants, including seedlings and young plants, which are to be transplanted after germination or after emergence from soil.

[0045] The term "locus" as used herein refers not only to areas where the pest such as a weeds and / or grass may already be developed, but also to areas that have not yet been attacked by said pest, and to areas under cultivation. Locus includes the crop and propagation material of the crop (all the generative parts of the crop such as seeds and vegetative plant material such as cuttings and tubers, which can be used for the multiplication of the plant. Locus also includes the area surrounding the crop and the growing media of the crop, such as soil and crop field.

[0046] As used herein, the term "treating a plant or a locus against herbs or weed" includes, but is not limited to, protecting the plant or locus against weeds and / or grass and / or controlling weeds and / or grass around the plant or at the locus where it grows.

[0047] The terms "controlling" and "combating", as used herein, are synonyms.

[0048] The terms "weeds and / or grass" as used herein, refers to valueless plants growing wild, especially those that grow on cultivated ground to the exclusion or injury of the desired crop, includes, but is not limited to "undesirable vegetation", "harmful plants", "unwanted plants", and "weed species".

[0049] As used herein the term "ha" refers to hectare. As used herein, the term "mixture" or "combination" refers, but is not limited to, a combination in any physical form, e.g., blend, solution, suspension, or the like.

[0050] Brief Description of the Figures

[0051] Figure 1. TEM images of Glufosinate-ammonium loaded nanoparticles. A- composition #3; B- composition #2; C- composition #1

[0052] Figure 2. Images of Glufosinate-ammonium compositions after water dilution in tank mixture conditions and double dose at 0, 2, 8 and 24 hours. A- composition #3; B- composition #2; C- composition #1. D: composition #1 Double tank dose.

[0053] Figure 3. Visual aspects of Glufosinate-ammonium compositions after 90 days of stability tests. A- composition #3; B- composition #2; C- composition #1.

[0054] Figure 4. Contact angle behavior of Glufosinate-ammonium compositions. A- composition #3; B- composition #2; C- composition #1.

[0055] Figure 5. Droplet behavior images of Glufosinate-ammonium compositions. A- composition #3; B- composition #2; C- composition #1.

[0056] Figure 6. TEM images of glufosinate-ammonium liquid compositions obtained after tank mix dilution with water: a) composition #4, b) composition #5, c) composition #6, d) composition #7, e) composition #8.

[0057] The agrochemical composition subject of invention:

[0058] The present invention is directed to an electrostatic complex of glufosinate-ammonium and primary C6-C24-alkylamine.

[0059] An agrochemical liquid composition comprising: a) glufosinate-ammonium in amount of from 1% to 50% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, b) at least one primary C6-C24-alkylamine in amount of from 0.1% to 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, c) at least one compound of formula (I)

[0060] O

[0061] F O'R2wherein, R1is C6-C24-alkyl; and R2is Cl-C6-alkyl; in amount of from 1% to 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, d) at least one nonionic surfactant selected from the group of Cl-C6-alkyl ethoxylated fatty acid ester, triglyceride ethoxylated fatty acid ester, sorbitan ethoxylated fatty acid ester, ethoxylated fatty alcohol, ethylene oxidepropylene oxide (EO-PO) block copolymer and derivative thereof, in amount of from 5% to 40% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, e) at least one organic solvent in amount of from 10% to 90% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, and f) water.

[0062] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprising: a) glufosinate-ammonium in amount of from 10% to 45% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, b) at least one primary C6-C24-alkylamine in amount of from 0.5% to 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, c) at least one compound of formula (I) in amount of from 3% to 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, d) at least one nonionic surfactant selected from the group consisting of ethoxylated fatty acid alkyl esters, triglyceride ethoxylated fatty acid esters, sorbitan ethoxylated fatty acid esters, ethoxylated fatty alcohols, ethylene oxidepropylene oxide (EO-PO) block copolymers and derivative thereof, in amount of from 5% to 25% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, e) at least one organic solvent in amount of from 10% to 35% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition and f) water.

[0063] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprising: a) glufosinate-ammonium in amount of from 10% to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, b) at least one primary C6-C24-alkylamine in amount of from 1% to 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, c) at least one compound of formula (I) in amount of from 3% to 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, d) at least one nonionic surfactant selected from the group consisting of ethoxylated fatty acid alkyl esters, triglyceride ethoxylated fatty acid esters, sorbitan ethoxylated fatty acid esters, ethoxylated fatty alcohols, ethylene oxidepropylene oxide (EO-PO) block copolymers and derivative thereof, in amount of from 8% to 25% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, e) at least one organic solvent in amount of from 15% to 25% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition and f) water.

[0064] According to an embodiment, the stability index of the agrochemical liquid composition of glufosinate-ammonium and primary C6-C24-alkylamine is from 0.001 to 0.1 more preferably between 0.01 to 0.1, most preferably 0.01 to 0.05.

[0065] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprising an electrostatic complex of the glufosinate-ammonium a) with the primary C6-C24- alkylamine b).

[0066] According to an embodiment, the electrostatic complex of the glufosinate-ammonium a) and the primary C6-C24-alkylamine b), is solubilized by the nonionic surfactant d), Compound of formula (I), c) organic solvent e) and water f).

[0067] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises a continuous homogeneous transparent phase.

[0068] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises a continuous homogeneous turbid phase.

[0069] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises glufosinate- ammonium a) in amount of from 10% to 45% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0070] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises glufosinate- ammonium a) in amount of from 20% to 45% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises glufosinate- ammonium a) in amount of from 30% to 45% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0071] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises glufosinate- ammonium a) in amount of from 40% to 45% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0072] Accordingto an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises primary C6- C24-alkylamine b) in amount of from 0.5% to 7% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0073] Accordingto an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises primary C6- C24-alkylamine b) in amount of from 1% to 6% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0074] Accordingto an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises primary C6- C24-alkylamine b) in amount of from 1% to 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0075] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises compound of formula (I) c) in amount of from 1% to 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0076] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises compound of formula (I) c) in amount of from 1% to 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0077] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises Compound of formula (I) c) in amount of from 2% to 6% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises Compound of formula (I) c) in amount of from 3% to 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0078] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises a nonionic surfactant d) in amount of from 5% to 25% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0079] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises a nonionic surfactant d) in amount of from 5% to 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0080] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises a nonionic surfactant d) in amount of from 8% to 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0081] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises an organic solvent e) is in amount of from 10% to 35% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0082] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises an organic solvent e) is in amount of from 15% to 25% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0083] According to an embodiment, the primary C6-C24-alkylamine b) is selected from the group comprising farnesyl amine, lauryl amine, tridecyl amine, myristryl amine, pentadecyl amine, cetyl amine, margaryl amine, stearyl amine, a-linolenyl amine, g- linolenyl amine, linoleyl amine, stearidyl amine, vaccenyl amine, oleyl amine, elaidyl amine, palmitoleyl amine, 3,7,11-trimethyldodecyl amine, and the mixture thereof.

[0084] According to an embodiment, the primary C6-C24-alkylamine b) is oleyl amine.

[0085] According to an embodiment, the compound of formula (I) c) is selected from the group comprising Cl-C6-alkyl caprylate, Cl-C6-alkyl caprate, Cl-C6-alkyl laurate, Cl-C6-alkyl myristate, Cl-C6-alkyl palmitate, Cl-C6-alkyl margarate, Cl-C6-alkyl stearate, Cl-C6-alkyl oleate, Cl-C6-alkyl linoleate, Cl-C6-alkyl alpha-linoleate, Cl-C6-alkyl linolenate, C1-C6- alkyl arachidate, Cl-C6-alkyl behenate, Cl-C6-alkyl erucate, Cl-C6-alkyl lignocerate, Cl- C6-alkyl ricinoleate, Cl-C6-alkyl hydrogenated ricinoleate, and the mixture thereof.

[0086] According to an embodiment, the compound of formula (I) c), have Cl-C6-alkyl group, more preferably Cl-C4-alkyl group, most preferably C2-C3-alkyl group.

[0087] According to an embodiment, the compound of formula (I) c), have Cl-C6-alkyl group selected from the group comprising, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, and the mixture thereof.

[0088] According to an embodiment, the compound of formula (I) c) is selected from the group comprising methyl caprylate, methyl caprate, methyl laurate, methyl myristate, methyl palmitate, methyl margarate, methyl stearate, methyl oleate, methyl linoleate, methyl alpha-linoleate, methyl linolenate, methyl arachidate, methyl behenate, methyl erucate, methyl lignocerate, methyl ricinoleate, methyl hydrogenated ricinoleate, and the mixture thereof.

[0089] According to an embodiment, the compound of formula (I) c) is selected from the group comprising ethyl caprylate, ethyl caprylate caprate, ethyl laurate, ethyl myristate, ethyl palmitate, ethyl margarate, ethyl stearate, ethyl oleate, ethyl linoleate, ethyl alphalinoleate, ethyl linolenate, ethyl arachidate, ethyl behenate, ethyl erucate, ethyl lignocerate, ethyl ricinoleate, ethyl hydrogenated ricinoleate, and the mixture thereof.

[0090] According to an embodiment, the compound of formula (I) c) is selected from the group comprising propyl caprylate, propyl caprylate caprate, propyl laurate, propyl myristate, propyl palmitate, propyl margarate, propyl stearate, propyl oleate, propyl linoleate, propyl alpha-linoleate, propyl linolenate, propyl arachidate, propyl behenate, propyl erucate, propyl lignocerate, propyl ricinoleate, propyl hydrogenated ricinoleate, and the mixture thereof. According to an embodiment, the compound of formula (I) c) is selected from the group comprising isopropyl caprylate, isopropyl caprylate caprate, isopropyl laurate, isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, isopropyl margarate, isopropyl stearate, isopropyl oleate, isopropyl linoleate, isopropyl alpha-linoleate, isopropyl linolenate, isopropyl arachidate, isopropyl behenate, isopropyl erucate, isopropyl lignocerate, isopropyl ricinoleate, isopropyl hydrogenated ricinoleate, and the mixture thereof.

[0091] According to an embodiment, the Compound of formula (I) c) is isopropyl myristate.

[0092] According to an embodiment, the nonionic surfactant d) is a ethoxylated fatty acid alkyl esters selected from the group comprising ethoxylated methyl caprylate, ethoxylated methyl caprate, ethoxylated methyl laurate, ethoxylated methyl myristate, ethoxylated methyl palmitate, ethoxylated methyl margarate, ethoxylated methyl stearate, ethoxylated methyl oleate, ethoxylated methyl linoleate, ethoxylated methyl alphalinoleate, ethoxylated methyl linolenate, ethoxylated methyl arachidate, ethoxylated methyl behenate, ethoxylated methyl erucate, ethoxylated methyl lignocerate, ethoxylated methyl ricinoleate, ethoxylated methyl hydrogenated ricinoleate, and the mixture thereof.

[0093] According to an embodiment, the nonionic surfactant d) is ethylene oxide-propylene oxide (EO-PO) block copolymers having between 2 to 100 ethylene oxide and propylene oxide units, more preferably between 20 to 60 ethylene oxide and propylene oxide units, most preferably about 40 ethylene oxide and propylene oxide units.

[0094] According to an embodiment, the nonionic surfactant d) is a methyl ethoxylated fatty acid ester.

[0095] According to an embodiment, the nonionic surfactant d) is an ethyl ethoxylated fatty acid ester.

[0096] According to an embodiment, the nonionic surfactant d) is a triglyceride ethoxylated fatty acid ester selected from the group comprising ethoxylated triglyceride caprylate, ethoxylated triglyceride caprate, ethoxylated triglyceride laurate, ethoxylated triglyceride myristate, ethoxylated triglyceride palmitate, ethoxylated triglyceride margarate, ethoxylated triglyceride stearate, ethoxylated triglyceride oleate, ethoxylated triglyceride linoleate, ethoxylated triglyceride alpha-linoleate, ethoxylated triglyceride linolenate, ethoxylated triglyceride arachidate, ethoxylated triglyceride behenate, ethoxylated triglyceride erucate, ethoxylated triglyceride lignocerate, ethoxylated triglyceride ricinoleate, ethoxylated triglyceride hydrogenated ricinoleate, and the mixture thereof.

[0097] According to an embodiment, the nonionic surfactant d) is a triglyceride ethoxylated fatty acid ester having between 2 to 100 ethylene oxide and propylene oxide units, more preferably between 20 to 60 ethylene oxide and propylene oxide units, most preferably about 40 ethylene oxide and propylene oxide units.

[0098] According to an embodiment, the nonionic surfactant d) is a sorbitan ethoxylated fatty acid ester selected from the group comprising ethoxylated sorbitan caprylate, ethoxylated sorbitan caprate, ethoxylated sorbitan laurate, ethoxylated sorbitan myristate, ethoxylated sorbitan palmitate, ethoxylated sorbitan margarate, ethoxylated sorbitan stearate, ethoxylated sorbitan oleate, ethoxylated sorbitan linoleate, ethoxylated sorbitan alpha-linoleate, ethoxylated sorbitan linolenate, ethoxylated sorbitan arachidate, ethoxylated sorbitan behenate, ethoxylated sorbitan erucate, ethoxylated sorbitan lignocerate, ethoxylated sorbitan ricinoleate, ethoxylated sorbitan hydrogenated ricinoleate, and the mixture thereof.

[0099] According to an embodiment, the nonionic surfactant d) is a sorbitan ethoxylated fatty acid ester comprising between 2 to 100 ethylene oxide and propylene oxide units, more preferably between 20 to 60 ethylene oxide and propylene oxide units, most preferably about 40 ethylene oxide and propylene oxide units.

[0100] According to an embodiment, the nonionic surfactant d) is an ethoxylated fatty alcohol selected from the group comprising ethoxylated caprylic alcohol, ethoxylated capric alcohol, ethoxylated lauric alcohol, ethoxylated myristic alcohol, ethoxylated palmitic alcohol, ethoxylated margaric alcohol, ethoxylated stearic alcohol, ethoxylated oleic alcohol, ethoxylated linoleic alcohol, ethoxylated alpha-linoleic alcohol, ethoxylated linolenic alcohol, ethoxylated arachidic alcohol, ethoxylated behenic acid, ethoxylated erucic alcohol, ethoxylated lignoceric alcohol, ethoxylated ricinoleic alcohol, ethoxylated hydrogenated ricinoleic acid, and the mixture thereof.

[0101] According to an embodiment, the nonionic surfactant d) is an ethoxylated fatty alcohol comprising between 2 to 100 ethylene oxide and propylene oxide units, more preferably between 20 to 60 ethylene oxide and propylene oxide units, most preferably about 40 ethylene oxide and propylene oxide units.

[0102] According to an embodiment, the nonionic surfactant d) is an ethylene oxide-propylene oxide (EO-PO) block copolymer comprising 2 to 100 ethylene oxide and propylene oxide units, more preferably between 20 to 60 ethylene oxide and propylene oxide units, most preferably about 40 ethylene oxide and propylene oxide units.

[0103] According to an embodiment, the nonionic surfactant d) is triglyceride ethoxylated methyl hydrogenated ricinoleate comprising about 40 ethylene oxide (PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil).

[0104] According to an embodiment, the nonionic surfactant d) is a poloxamer defined as nonionic triblock copolymers composed of a central hydrophobic chain of polyoxypropylene (polyfpropylene oxide)) flanked by two hydrophilic chains of polyoxyethylene (polyfethylene oxide)).

[0105] According to an embodiment, the organic solvent e) is selected from the group comprising pentane, hexane, cyclohexane, acetone, 2-butanone, cyclohexanone, methanol, ethanol, propanol, butanol, pentanol, hexanol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, dimethyl isosorbide, dimethylacetamide, dimethylsulfoxide, ethyl acetate, acetonitrile, polyethylene glycol such as polyethylene glycol 40, polyethylene glycol 400, polyethylene glycol 8000, medium chain triglycerides, safflower oil, cetrimonium chloride, polyethylenimine, ethoxy diglycol, argan oil, lecithin, polyethylene glycol (15)- hydroxystearate, mineral oil, chitosan, tripolyphosphate, Amisoft CS22, Lipocol P-15, isopropyl miristate, and the mixtures thereof. According to an embodiment, the organic solvent e) is selected from the group comprising butanol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dimethyl isosorbide, dimethylacetamide, ethyl acetate, polyethylene glycol 400, and the mixtures thereof.

[0106] According to an embodiment, the organic solvent e) is selected from the group comprising propylene glycol, ethyl acetate, PEG-400, and the mixtures thereof.

[0107] According to an embodiment, the organic solvent e) is propylene glycol.

[0108] According to an embodiment, the organic solvent e) is polyethylene glycol 400.

[0109] According to an embodiment, the weight ratio of glufosinate-ammonium a) to the primary C6-C24-alkylamine b) is from 1:10 to 500:1, more preferably from 1:1 to 100:1, most preferably from 5:1 to 10:1.

[0110] According to an embodiment, the weight ratio of glufosinate-ammonium a) to the Compound of formula (I) c) is from 1:20 to 50:1, more preferably from 1:1 to 10:1, most preferably from 5:1 to 10:1.

[0111] According to an embodiment, the weight ratio of glufosinate-ammonium a) to the nonionic surfactant d) is from 1:40 to 10:1, more preferably from 1:3 to 5:1, most preferably from 2:1 to 4:1.

[0112] According to an embodiment, the weight ratio of glufosinate-ammonium a) to the organic solvent e) is from 1:90 to 5:1, more preferably from 1:3 to 3:1, most preferably from 2:1 to 3:1.

[0113] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition further comprises a biocide g).

[0114] According to an embodiment, the biocide g) is a fungicide.

[0115] According to an embodiment, the biocide g) is a fungicide selected from the group comprising azaconazole, bromuconazole, cyproconazole, diclobutrazol, difenoconazole, diniconazole, diniconazole-M, epoxiconazole, etaconazole, fenbuconazole, fiuquinconazole, fiusilazole, fiutriafol, furconazole, furconazole-cis, hexaconazole, imibenconazole, ipconazole, metconazole, myclobutanil, penconazole, propiconazole, prothioconazole, quinconazole, simeconazole, tebuconazole, tetraconazole, triadimefon, triadimenol, triticonazole, uniconazole, uniconazole-P, and combinations thereof.

[0116] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises a preservative g) in amount of from 0.001% to 0.2% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0117] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises a preservative g) in amount of from 0.01% to 0.15% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0118] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises a preservative g) in amount of from 0.05% to 0.1% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0119] According to an embodiment, the weight ratio of glufosinate-ammonium a) to the to the preservative g) is from 100:0.01 to 10:0.01, more preferably from 100:0.1 to 10:0.1, most preferably from 300:1 to 100:1.

[0120] According to another embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition further comprises an antioxidant h) selected from the group comprising tris(2,4-di-tert- butylphenyl) phosphite, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), propyl gallate (PG), tert-butyl hydroquinone (TBHQ), 2-naphthol (2NL), 4- phenylphenol (OPP) 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-DA), ascorbic acid, ascorbyl palmitate, and the mixture thereof.

[0121] According to an embodiment, the weight ratio of glufosinate-ammonium a) to the to the antioxidant h) is from 100:0.01 to 10:0.01, more preferably from 100:0.1 to 10:0.1, most preferably from 300:1 to 100:1.

[0122] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises an antioxidant h) in amount of from 0.001% to 0.2% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises an antioxidant h) in amount of from 0.01% to 0.15% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0123] According to an embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises an antioxidant h) in amount of from 0.05% to 0.1% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

[0124] According to another embodiment, the agrochemical liquid composition of the present invention, as defined according to any one of the preceding embodiments, further comprises adjuvant and / or stabilizer.

[0125] The term "adjuvant and / or stabilizer" as used herein refers to a chemical agent that is added to a composition so as to enhance the performance and / or physical properties of the agrochemical liquid composition.

[0126] According to another embodiment, the adjuvant and / or stabilizer can be incorporated into a formulation (built-in / in-can adjuvant) or can be added separately into the spray tank alongside other agrochemical products (tank mix adjuvant).

[0127] Non-limiting examples of adjuvant and / or stabilizer include a mixture of such as dispersers, emulsifiers, and spreaders.

[0128] Non-limiting examples of emulsifiers include alkanoic and alkenoic acids, monoesters and diesters of a-hydro-w-hydroxypoly (oxyethylene), glyceryl monostearate, sodium metasilicate.

[0129] Non-limiting examples of spreaders include polyoxyethylene sorbitan ester, polyxyethylated (or aryl), non-ionic surface-active agent such as ether, polyoxyethylene fatty acid ester, linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS), dialkyl sulfosuccinate succinate, and organosilicon spreader such as trisiloxane alkoxylate. In certain embodiments, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises an adjuvant and / or stabilizer in amount of 0.1% to 10%, from 0.1% to 7%, from 0.1% to 5%, from 0.5% to 3%, or 0.5 to 1%, by weight of said composition.

[0130] In certain embodiments, the agrochemical liquid composition of the present invention, as defined according to any one of the embodiments above, further comprises an antifoaming agent.

[0131] The term "anti-foaming agent" as used herein refers to a chemical agent that is added to a composition so as to prevent, attenuate, or counter foam generation in the composition. Generally, such agents have surface active properties, are insoluble in the foaming medium, easily spreadable on the foamy surface, possess affinity to the air-liquid surface, and destabilize the foam lamellas which rupture the air bubbles and break down the surface foam.

[0132] Non-limiting examples of anti-foaming agents include a mixture of alkenes, C11-C12, hydroformylation products, low boiling, or a commercially available product comprising it such as Geronol AF 80; a mineral oil-based defoamer or a commercially available product comprising it such as Lucrafoam® PDT; a blend of special wax, hydrophobic silica, and mineral oil or a commercially available product comprising it such as DEE FO® 3010E / 50; a silicon emulsion or a commercially available product comprising it such as Silfoam® SE 47, Silfoam® SRE, Silcolapse® RG 12, Silcolapse® 432, Silcolapse®416, and SAG 1572; a polydimethyl siloxane emulsion or a commercially available product comprising it such as SAG IDE; or a silicone-based compound or a commercially available product comprising it such as Silcolapse™ 910 and Xiameter® ACP-1000.

[0133] In certain embodiments, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises an anti-foaming agent in amount of from 0.1% to 3%, from 0.1% to 2%, from 0.1% to 1%, from 0.5% to 0.9%, or from 0.5% to 0.7%, by weight of said composition.

[0134] In certain embodiments, agrochemical liquid composition of the present invention, as defined according to any one of the preceding embodiments, further comprises an antifreeze agent. Non-limiting examples of anti-freeze agents include such as but not limited to glycerin, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, monopropylene glycol, hexylene glycol, l-methoxy-2- propanol, cyclohexanol, urea.

[0135] In certain embodiments, the agrochemical liquid composition comprises an anti-freeze agent in amount of from 0.1% to 10%, from 0.5% to 5%, from 1% to 4%, or from 1% to 3% by weight of said composition.

[0136] A further aspect of this present invention relates to a method for preparing the liquid composition according to any one of claims 3-24, comprising:

[0137] (i) preparation of aqueous phase by mixing of glufosinate-ammonium a) and water f) at a temperature of from 40°C to 90°C,

[0138] (ii) preparing of organic phase by mixing of primary C6-C24-alkylamine b), compound of formula (I) c), nonionic surfactant d), and organic solvent e) at a temperature of from 40°C to 90°C

[0139] (iii) addition of the aqueous phase obtained in (i) to an organic phase obtained in (ii) and mixing until homogenization.

[0140] According to another aspect of the present invention, this present invention relates to an aqueous agrochemical composition of glufosinate-ammonium comprising normal direct nanomicelles or reversed inverted nanomicelles.

[0141] According to an embodiment, the aqueous agrochemical composition having normal direct nanomicelles or reversed inverted nanomicelles is prepared by diluting the present invention of agrochemical liquid composition according to any of the presented embodiment with water.

[0142] According to an embodiment, the normal direct nanomicelles or reversed inverted nanomicelles, comprises structures in a range of from 20nm to 300nm.

[0143] According to an embodiment, the normal direct nanomicelles or reversed inverted nanomicelles, comprises structures in a range of from 50nm to 250nm. According to an embodiment, the normal direct nanomicelles or reversed inverted nanomicelles, comprises structures in a range of from lOOnm to 200nm.

[0144] According to an embodiment, the normal direct nanomicelles or reversed inverted nanomicelles, have positive zeta potential of from 5mV to 80mV.

[0145] According to an embodiment, the normal direct nanomicelles or reversed inverted nanomicelles, have positive zeta potential of from 20mV to 80mV.

[0146] According to an embodiment, the normal direct nanomicelles or reversed inverted nanomicelles, have positive zeta potential of from 50mV to 80mV.

[0147] According to another aspect of the present invention, this present invention relates to an aqueous agrochemical composition of glufosinate-ammonium comprising liquid-crystal system.

[0148] According to an embodiment, the aqueous agrochemical composition having liquidcrystal system is prepared by diluting the present invention of agrochemical liquid composition according to any of the presented embodiment with water.

[0149] According to an embodiment, the structure of the liquid-crystal system is lamellar, cubic, or hexagonal.

[0150] According to an embodiment, the liquid-crystal system, comprises structures in a range of from 20nm to 300nm.

[0151] According to an embodiment, the liquid-crystal system, comprises structures in a range of from 50nm to 250nm.

[0152] According to an embodiment, the liquid-crystal system, comprises structures in a range of from lOOnm to 200nm.

[0153] According to an embodiment, the liquid-crystal system, have positive zeta potential of from 5mV to 80mV. According to an embodiment, the liquid-crystal system, have positive zeta potential of from 20mV to 80mV.

[0154] According to an embodiment, the liquid-crystal system, have positive zeta potential of from 50mV to 80mV.

[0155] Methods of applying the agrochemical composition of this present invention:

[0156] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for controlling weeds and / or grass in crops, comprising diluting the agrochemical liquid composition as defined according to any of the embodiments in this present invention, with water, and contacting the weeds and / or grass, or its environment with an effective amount of said diluted composition.

[0157] Methods for preparing of the agrochemical liquid composition are well known in the art and include mechanical mixing, high-shear, or high-speed blending. The methods can be used in the preparation of the agrochemical liquid composition of the present invention, as defined according to any of the embodiments in this present invention.

[0158] This invention also relates to a method for controlling a weed and / or grass comprising diluting as defined according to any of the embodiments in this present invention, with water and contacting the weeds and / or grass, or its environment with an effective amount of said diluted composition. The preferred method for applying the diluted composition of the agrochemical liquid composition as defined according to any of the embodiments in this present invention, can be but not limited to spraying, atomizing, dispersing, or pouring. The method for applying will depend on the desired objectives and the given circumstances and can be readily determined by one skilled in the art and can be applied as foliar or soil applications.

[0159] In certain embodiments, the agrochemical liquid composition as defined according to any of the embodiments in this present invention, used for a method for controlling weeds and / or grass, comprising diluting the agrochemical liquid composition with water, and optionally adding an adjuvant to form a diluted composition, and contacting the weeds and / or grass, or its environment with an effective amount of said diluted composition. In certain embodiments, adjuvants are auxiliaries, which are added to agrochemical liquid compositions so as to increase the effectiveness of one or more of the herbicidal active agents. The increase in the efficacy of said agrochemical agent induced by the presence of said adjuvant may be due to several possible modes of action such as facilitated wetting, adherence, penetration, or better retention.

[0160] In a particular aspect, the present invention discloses a method of controlling weeds and / or grass comprising applying to a locus where control of said weeds and / or grass is desired an effective amount of the agrochemical liquid composition as defined according to any of the embodiments in this present invention.

[0161] The agrochemical liquid composition as defined according to any of the embodiments in this present invention, can be used as such for plant protection, i.e., for combating harmful organisms that are harmful to plants or for protecting crops from attack or infestation by such a harmful organism. Therefore, the present invention also relates to a method wherein the aqueous agrochemical liquid compositions as defined according to any of the embodiments in this present invention, is contacting said harmful organisms, plant, seed, soil, area, material or environment in which the harmful organisms are growing or may grow, or the materials, plants, seeds, soils, surfaces or spaces to be protected from attack or infestation by said harmful organisms with an effective amount of an aqueous composition as described herein.

[0162] The invention also relates to a method for protecting plants from attack or infestation by harmful organisms such as weeds and / or grass, which comprises contacting the plants with an effective amount of an aqueous composition as described herein.

[0163] The agrochemical liquid compositions of the invention after dilution are applied by usual means which are familiar to a skilled person.

[0164] The agrochemical liquid compositions as defined according to any of the embodiments in this present invention, may be applied to control undesired vegetation. The control of undesired vegetation is understood as meaning the destruction of weeds. Weeds, in the broadest sense, are understood as meaning all those plants which grow in locations where they are undesired, for example:

[0165] Monocotyledonous weeds of the genera: Echinochloa, Setaria, Panicum, Digitaria, Phleum, Poa, Festuca, Eleusine, Brachiaria, Lolium, Bromus, Avena, Cyperus, Sorghum, Agropyron, Cynodon, Monochoria, Fimbristyslis, Sagittaria, Eleocharis, Scirpus, Paspalum, Ischaemum, Sphenoclea, Dactyloctenium, Agrostis, Alopecurus, Apera, Soghum, and the mixture thereof.

[0166] Dicotyledonous weeds of the genera: Sinapis, Lepidium, Galium, Stellaria, Matricaria, Anthemis, Galinsoga, Chenopodium, Urtica, Senecio, Amaranthus, Portulaca, Xanthium, Convolvulus, Ipomoea, Polygonum, Sesbania, Ambrosia, Cirsium, Carduus, Sonchus, Solanum, Rorippa, Rotala, Lindernia, Lamium, Veronica, Abutilon, Emex, Datura, Viola, Galeopsis, Papaver, Centaurea, Trifolium, Ranunculus, Taraxacum, and the mixture thereof.

[0167] The agrochemical liquid composition as defined according to any of the embodiments in this present invention, is applied to control Amaranthus retroflexus (AMARE), Solanum nigrum (SOLNI), Digitaria sanguinalis (DIGSA), Echinochloa crus-galli (ECHCG), Soghum halepense (SORHA), and the mixture thereof.

[0168] The agrochemical liquid composition as defined according to any of the embodiments in this present invention, can be applied in conventional manner, usually as an aqueous composition which is obtained from diluting it with water in a tank mix.

[0169] In another particular aspect, the present invention discloses a method for the protection of plant propagation material from the attack by weeds and / or grass, comprising treating the propagation material or the site where the propagation material is to be planted with an effective amount of the agrochemical liquid composition as defined according to any of the embodiments in this present invention.

[0170] In certain embodiments, the locus treated by the method disclosed herein is a crop. The term "crop" (or "plant") as used herein refers to whole plants, plant organs (e.g., leaves, stems, twigs, roots, trunks, limbs, shoots, fruits, etc.), plant cells, or plant seeds. Non-limiting examples of crops are oilseed rape (e.g. canola), cotton, rice, banana, potato (including sweet potato), coffee, sugar cane, citrus, beans, sunflower, corn, soybean, wheat, barley, oats, chickpeas, fruit trees, nut trees (e.g. almonds), lentils, grain sorghum, alfalfa, brassicas, fruiting vegetables (e.g. tomatoes, pepper, chili, eggplant, cucumber, squash etc.), tea, bulb vegetables (e.g. onion, leek etc.), grapes, pome fruit (e.g. apples, pears etc.), and stone fruit (e.g. pears, plums etc.)

[0171] According to an embodiment, the present invention discloses a method for the protection of plant propagation material in crops wherein the crop is GMO.

[0172] The term "GMO" (or "genetically modified organisms") as used herein refers to genetically modified organisms, where the crops have been altered at the genetic level through biotechnology. This process involves inserting specific genes into the plant's DNA to give it new traits, such as resistance to pests, herbicides, or harsh environmental conditions, improved nutritional content, or better yield. Common examples of GMO crops include corn, soybeans, and cotton, which may be genetically modified to withstand pests or tolerate herbicides, making farming more efficient. These modifications aim to improve agricultural productivity and food quality.

[0173] In particular, the locus treated by the method disclosed herein is soybean, corn, canola, and cotton.

[0174] The present invention will now be illustrated by the following non-limiting Examples.

[0175] EXAMPLES:

[0176] OBJECTIVES:

[0177] Evaluating physical characteristics of the agrochemical liquid composition of this present invention and its efficacy on different weeds / grass.

[0178] METHODS and ANALYSES: Average particle size and zeta potential: Average particle size and zeta potential were measured using a Zetasizer Nano-ZS 90 (Malvern Instruments, Worcestershire, UK) by dynamic light scattering and laser Doppler anemometry, respectively.

[0179] Morphology: Morphology was evaluated by Transmission Electronic Microscopy - TEM (CM200Philips; FEI Company, Hillsboro, USA). A droplet of nanoparticles suspension was deposited on a carbon-coated copper grid (CF-Cu, TED PELLA INC., USA, 300 mesh). After 24 h, a droplet of 2% (w / v) uranyl acetate was applied to stain the sample, followed by incubation (24 h) in a darkroom and then, TEM analysis.

[0180] Release studies under tank mixed conditions: This step aimed to evaluate the release of the herbicide after the dilution in the tank for field application. The study was conducted by diluting the products at the recommended field doses in (a) water and (b) 0.05% (w / v) Tween® 80 in water. Aliquots (0.5 mL) of the acceptor medium were collected after 2, 4, 6, and 8 h and the herbicide present in the supernatant was determined following the ultrafiltration / centrifugation procedure using Amicon filter devices containing filter membranes UltracellOO (100 kDa, Millipore Corp., EUA). The quantification of the herbicide was performed by HPLC following the pre-validated methods. Crystallization of the herbicide in the medium was monitored using polarized light microscopy.

[0181] Release studies under sink conditions: This step aimed to evaluate the release of the herbicide in sink conditions, i.e., acceptance medium that favors the herbicide dissolution and medium volume at least 5 times greater than the volume of the saturated solution. The medium composition for sink conditions was based on solubility of the herbicide in different concentrations of organic solvent, determined by HPLC. Aliquots (0.5 mL) of the acceptor medium were collected after 2, 4, 6 and 8 hours and the herbicide present in the supernatant was determined following the ultrafiltration / centrifugation procedure using Amicon filter devices containing filter membranes UltracellOO (100 kDa, Millipore Corp., EUA). The quantification of the herbicide was performed by HPLC following the prevalidated methods. Accelerated stability (Turbiscan test): Analysis of the accelerated physical stability of the formulations were performed using a dispersion analyzer (LUMiSizer®; Berlin, Germany). This equipment employs centrifugation and light transmission to accelerate instability phenomena, such as sedimentation, hastening separation and directly evaluating the stability of dispersion. Aliquots (1.0 mL) were placed in individual test tubes (optical path of 2.0 mm) and exposed to centrifugal force at 950 g for 5 h at 20°C. This technique generates a numerical instability index, ranging from 0 to 1, with 0 indicating a very stable system, and 1 indicating a complete separation of the dispersion.

[0182] Loading capacity and encapsulation efficiency: Loading capacity and encapsulation efficiency were determined by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC - Ultimate 3000 RS, Thermo-Fisher Scientific, USA) coupled to a diode array detector (DAD). External calibration curves were used to calculate herbicide content, i.e., Glufosinate. The analytical methods were validated prior to the analysis. Chromatographic separation was obtained using a reverse phase C18 column (Supelco Ascentis RP Amide, 150 x4.6 mm, 5 pm, 255C) and a DAD detector operating at 195 nm. The herbicide was eluted with a mobile phase consisting of potassium dihydrogen phosphate buffer (pH 3.0 adjusted with 85% phosphoric acid) using an isocratic system with a flow rate at 0.5 mL / min and run time of 10 min. The herbicide concentrations within the nanoparticles were determined by calculating the integral area of the peaks of interest, with the support of external analytical standard curves. Values were expressed as mean ± standard deviation from three consecutive injections / sample. The encapsulation efficiency, described in percentage (%), was calculated as the difference between the total concentration of herbicide in the nanoparticle suspension and the amount of herbicide present in the supernatant, following the ultrafiltration / centrifugation procedure using Amicon filter devices containing filter membranes UltracellOO (100 kDa, Millipore Corp., EUA).

[0183] Solubility / dispersion behavior in water: The solubility and dispersion behavior of the products after diluting in water were analyzed for the recommended field dose and also for a double field dose, i.e., twice the recommended field dose. The products were mixed with water and examined for separation, sedimentation, and precipitation phenomena.

[0184] The results will be documented by imaging.

[0185] Stability after product dilution: The stability of the products after diluting the recommended field dose in water was evaluated for a period of 24 h. For that, aliquots of the mixtures were collected after 2, 4, 8, and 24h and examined for separation, sedimentation, and precipitation phenomena. The results will be documented by imaging. Average particle size and polydispersion index were also monitored by photon correlation spectroscopy (Zetasizer® Nano-ZS 90, Malvern Instruments, Worcestershire, UK).

[0186] Stability of the final product: The stability of the products was evaluated at different temperature conditions, i.e., room temperature (25-C), 305C, 405C (for 90 days), 545C (for 14 days), and freezing (<05C for 12 h). Products were examined for changes in color, separation, sedimentation, crystallization, precipitation, and other eventual phenomena. The results were documented by imaging. Average particle size, zeta potential and polydispersion index were also monitored by photon correlation spectroscopy (Zetasizer® Nano-ZS 90, Malvern Instruments, Worcestershire, UK) after diluting the adequate dose of the samples.

[0187] Droplet behavior- Spreading capacity: Contact angle analyzes were used to evaluate the spreading capacity of the products. A 7 pL droplet of the diluted product was placed on a polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon) surface with a 10 pL pipette. The analysis was performed with the support of a goniometer, model Rame-Hart 250, where the angles formed on both sides of the drop were measured and the average value calculated. Water droplet was used as control.

[0188] Droplet behavior- Suspensibility and drying time: A 7 pL droplet of the diluted product was placed on a polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon) surface with a 10 pL pipette. The drying time of the droplet was determined, and the shape and size of the droplet pattern were documented by imaging and processed using Drop Image software. Water droplet was used as control. MATERIALS:

[0189] Composition #1 (%w / w):

[0190] Preparation procedure for inventive composition #1:

[0191] 1. In a designated reactor, hydrogenated PEG-40 castor oil, propylene glycol, isopropyl myristate were added, and the mixture was heated to 75 °C while stirring until homogenous oily phase was obtained.

[0192] 2. Oleylamine was added, and the mixture was stirred until homogenous oily phase was obtained.

[0193] 3. Optionally, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) is incorporated into the oil phase.

[0194] 4. In a separate reactor, water and glufosinate-ammonium were added, and the mixture was heated to 75 °C while stirring until homogenous aqueous phase was obtained.

[0195] 5. Optionally, sodium benzoate is added to the water phase.

[0196] 6. The homogenous aqueous phase was slowly added to the homogenous oily phase, maintaining the temperature at 75 °C.

[0197] 7. Mixture was cooled down to 25 °C. 8. Water was added to compensate any mass loss of water through evaporation, and the mixture was stirred for additional 15 minutes.

[0198] Comparative composition #2 (%w / w):

[0199] Comparative composition #3 (%w / w):

[0200] Preparation of the comparative composition:

[0201] The comparative compositions #2 and #3 were prepared correspondingly to the abovedescribed method. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION:

[0202] Table 1: Characteristics of composition #1 and comparative compositions #2 and #3.

[0203] The compositions presented a pH value of 8.0 and different physical aspect. Composition #2 was transparent to slightly turbid solution, composition #3 was opalescent white solution and composition #1 was viscous-transparent light-yellow solution. Nanodroplets were visualized through TEM imaging (Figure 1). It was observed that composition #1 presented a better encapsulation efficiency of 68.61% when compared to composition #2 or composition #3, 39.73% and 30.04%, respectively.

[0204] The particles size distribution of composition #1, #2, and #3 were 26.95nm, 107.6nm and 194.5nm, respectively. Smaller nanodroplet size was obtained for composition #1. The positive zeta potential was obtained due to the presence of oleylamine, leading to the enhancing of the interaction between foliar surface and composition.

[0205] Stability analysis through Turbiscan, showed that composition #1, #2, and #3 stability index were 0.068, 0.014 and 0.099, respectively. Approximate values of 1 suggest system separation and instability. According to the result, the compositions are stable for 6 months shelf-life.

[0206] Release studies were conducted with water, a 0.05% (w / v) solution of Tween® 80 in water or in an 8% (v / v) methanol solution in water. All compositions released 100% of Glufosinate in 30 minutes. Also, it was observed that once the compositions were in contact with water at tank conditions, there weren't significant changes observed as shown in Figure 2. Composition #1 had the better encapsulation efficiency, and therefore was tested for double dose tank conditions. In double dose tank conditions composition #1 was cloudier, but no precipitation or sedimentation were observed.

[0207] Table 2 shows characteristics analysis of compositions #1, #2 and #3 after diluting with water in a tank conditions. No significant changes on particle size, PDI and zeta potential even after 24h were observed for all the tested compositions.

[0208] Table 2: Compositions characteristics after dilution with water in tank conditions over time.

[0209] The stability of the products was evaluated at different temperatures, i.e., room temperature (25-C), 305C, 405C (for 90 days), 545C (for 14 days), and freezing (<05C for 12 h). A slight lightening change in color was observed for composition #1 at high temperature exposures. In addition, a slight phase separation was observed for composition #1 at 405C and light exposure. Overall, composition #2 and composition #3 showed no significant physical difference (Figure 3).

[0210] According to the results, a tendency to more negative zeta potential values was observed in samples at 405C or 545C. This trend was observed for all compositions.

[0211] The droplet behavior of composition #1, #2, #3 and control (water) were examined. Compositions #1 and #3 presented a lower contact angle than water (control) (Table 3) and higher spreading capacity which facilitates the contact of compositions with the foliar surface leading to a better foliar coverage. Also, drying time of compositions was faster than of the control (Figure 5).

[0212] Table 3. Initial droplet contact angle for composition #1, #2, #3 and control (water).

[0213] The stability of composition #1, was tested under different temperatures over time, including -5°C, 25°C, 30°C, 40°C, 54°C and light (Table 4). One can comprehend that no significant changes occurred through this stability conditions, and the composition is stable and keeps its characteristics. Minor increase in the particle size, PDI, zeta potential and pH were observed over time at all temperatures and light.

[0214] Table 4. Composition #1 stability test under different temperature conditions over time.

[0215] Table 5. additional compositions according to the invention. Table 6. Characteristics of composition 4-10.

[0216] *Glufosinate-Ammonium **Estimated dilution in tank 10% herbicide: 50x; Estimated dilution in tank 5% herbicide: 25x. ***pH values=8.0

[0217] The mean particle size for composition #1 was found to be 26.95nm, with a PDI (particle size distribution) of 0.39. When the amount of glufosinate-ammonium was increased to 15% and 20%, compositions #4-7, the mean particle size also increased up to 286nm, with narrow PDI. At 30% concentration of glufosinate-ammonium, the particle size somewhat decreased to a range of from 63.63 to 148nm, while the PDIs remained narrow.

[0218] The presence of oleylamine in the formulations resulted in a positive zeta potential, which is believed to improve the interaction between the foliar surface and the formulation.

[0219] DESCRIPTION OF GREENHOUSE TRIAL (study procedures):

[0220] The effectiveness of two formulations of the glufosinate-ammonium herbicide, composition #1 and AG-G1-200SL (glufosinate-200g / L as solution) (reference) were tested in a greenhouse trial. The treatments were applied after the emergence of the test weeds, which were grown in pots and included Solanum nigrum (SOLNI), Amaranthus retroflexus (AMARE), Echinochloa crus-galli (ECHCG), Digitaria sanguinalis (DIGSA), and Sorghum halepense (SORHA) when they reached BBCH 12-14* The different formulations 5 were diluted to five rates and applied at a rate of 200 liters per hectare using a spray cabinet. Each treatment was applied to five replicates. The results are represented as a percentage of the herbicidal effect relative to the untreated in tables 7 and 8.

[0221] *BBCH 12-14 - The BBCH-scale is used to identify the phonological development stages of plants. BBCH-scales have been developed for a range of crop species where similar 10 growth stages of each plant are given the same code. (12) -first pair of true leaves visible,

[0222] (14) - fourth pair of true leaves visible.

[0223] Table 7. Efficacy results of composition #1 against reference (AG-G1-200SL).

[0224] * gai / ha - gram active ingredient to acre Table 8. Means of the efficacy results of composition #1 against reference (AG-G1-200SL).

[0225] * gai / ha - gram active ingredient to acre, **BLWs - broad leaf weeds, GWs - Grassweeds

[0226] The field trials indicated that the efficacy rate of composition #1 and the reference formulation (AG-G1-200SL) on broadleaf weeds (BLWs) and grass weeds (GWs) increases at higher rates. Amaranthus retroflexus (AMARE) was affected at all rates on Sagea, however, a significant advantage was observed for composition #1 over the reference on Staphyt. The low rate of 50ga / ha of the tested composition #1 led to efficacy obtained only at 150ga / ha of the reference compound. Similarly, Solarium nigrum (SOLNI) also showed a similar trend, wherein the lower rate of 150ga / ha of composition #1 led to a similar effect as with the rate of 200ga / ha of the reference composition. On the other hand, Digitaria sanguinalis (DIGSA) showed a slight advantage of composition #1 over the reference both for Staphyt and Sagea. In contrast, Echinochloa crus-galli (ECHCG) and Soghum halepense (SORHA) demonstrated a high advantage for composition #1 over the reference in all tested rates on both Staphyt and Sagea. Echinochloa crus-galli (ECHCG) on Sagea had 100% control by applying only lOOga / ha compared to 59% control of the reference. Similarly, Soghum halepense (SORHA) on Staphyt had 93% control using only lOOga / ha compared to the 4% control of the reference. The mean efficacy results of all tested rates on BLWs and GWs of 49% and 60%, respectively, disclosed the advantage of composition #1 over the reference.

[0227] CONCLUSIONS:

[0228] Anionic herbicides, particularly glufosinate-ammonium do not penetrate well through the plant surface due to their negative charge when dissolved in water. Due to their hydrophilic characteristics, in most cases, oil-based type formulations of anionic pesticides are not stable enough and tend to have undesired precipitation or phase separation. This present invention describes surprisingly stable transparent liquid formulations of glufosinate-ammonium and its method of preparation. These formulations exploit the negatively charged glufosinate-ammonium and the positive charge of a lipophilic cationic amine such as oleylamine to create a complex, that by adding additional surfactants, i.e., a hydrogenated PEG-40 castor oil derivative, isopropyl myristate, propylene glycol and water, leads to a stable transparent liquid composition.

[0229] It was shown that said liquid composition is stable at ambient conditions for up to 90 days at 40°C, maintaining its clear solution appearance with no separation or precipitation occurrences. Upon dilution with water, the liquid compositions stay stable for up to 24 hours and unexpectedly, form nanomicelles and / or liquid crystal lamellar structures in the range of 100 to 300nm. The nanomicelles and / or liquid crystal lamellar structures have positive zeta potential in the range of 20-80 mV enhance the adherence to the negatively charged plant surface that facilitates the penetration of the herbicide through the plant surface enhancing the uptake and the final biological efficacy.

[0230] The efficacy study of composition #1 of said invention, on broadleaf weeds (BLWs) and grass weeds (GWs), demonstrated high efficacy against undesirable weeds while using lower rates than the reference composition. Composition #1 was found to be particularly effective on Echinochloa crus-galli and Soghum halepense (SORHA). To conclude, in addition to their high stability, these compositions have the potential to be used in different untested rates and weeds, and in combination with other herbicides. This invention represents an innovative opportunity to reduce the rate of herbicide use and to improve its biological efficacy.

Claims

1. CLAIMS:

1. An electrostatic complex of glufosinate-ammonium and primary C6-C24- alkylamine.

2. An agrochemical liquid composition comprising: a) glufosinate-ammonium in amount of from 1% to 50% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, b) at least one primary C6-C24-alkylamine in amount of from 0.1% to 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, c) at least one compound of formula (I)wherein,R1is C6-C24-alkyl; and R2is Cl-C6-alkyl; in amount of from 1% to 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, d) at least one nonionic surfactant selected from the group of ethoxylated fatty acid alkyl esters, triglyceride ethoxylated fatty acid ester, sorbitan ethoxylated fatty acid ester, ethoxylated fatty alcohol, ethylene oxide-propylene oxide (EO-PO) block copolymer and derivative thereof, in amount of from 5% to 40% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, e) at least one organic solvent in amount of from 10% to 90% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, and f) water.

3. An agrochemical liquid composition comprising:1) electrostatic complex of a) glufosinate-ammonium in amount between 1% to 50% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, and at least one b) primary C6-C24-alkylamine in amount of from 0.1% to 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition,2) at least one c) compound of formula (I)OR O'R!wherein,R1is C6-C24-alkyl; and R2is Cl-C6-alkyl; in amount of from 1% to 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, at least one d) nonionic surfactant selected from the group consisting of ethoxylated fatty acid alkyl esters, ethoxylated fatty acid triglyceride esters, sorbitan ethoxylated fatty acid esters, ethoxylated fatty alcohols, ethylene oxide-propylene oxide (EO-PO) block copolymers and derivative thereof, in amount of from 5% to 40% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, at least one e) organic solvent in amount of from 10% to 90% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, and f) water, wherein its stability index is from 0.001 to 0.1.

4. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the amount of glufosinate-ammonium a) is from 10% to 45% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

5. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the amount of the primary C6-C24-alkylamine b) is from 0.5% to 7% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

6. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 2-5, wherein the amount of compound of formula (I) c) is from 1% to 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

7. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 2-6, wherein the amount of the nonionic surfactant d) is from 5% to 25% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

8. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 2-7, wherein the amount of the organic solvent e) is from 10% to 30% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

9. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the primary C6-C24-alkylamine b) is selected from the group comprising farnesyl amine, lauryl amine, tridecyl amine, myristryl amine, pentadecyl amine, cetyl amine, margaryl amine, stearyl amine, a-linolenyl amine, g-linolenyl amine, linoleyl amine, stearidyl amine, vaccenyl amine, oleyl amine, elaidyl amine, palmitoleyl amine, and 3,7,11-trimethyldodecyl amine, and the mixture thereof.

10. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 2-9, wherein the compound of formula (I) c) is selected from the group comprising Cl-C6-alkyl caprylate, Cl-C6-alkyl caprate, Cl-C6-alkyl laurate, Cl-C6-alkyl myristate, C1-C6- alkyl palmitate, Cl-C6-alkyl margarate, Cl-C6-alkyl stearate, Cl-C6-alkyl oleate, Cl-C6-alkyl linoleate, Cl-C6-alkyl alpha-linoleate, Cl-C6-alkyl linolenate, C1-C6- alkyl arachidate, Cl-C6-alkyl behenate, Cl-C6-alkyl erucate, Cl-C6-alkyl lignocerate, Cl-C6-alkyl ricinoleate, Cl-C6-alkyl hydrogenated ricinoleate, and the mixture thereof.

11. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 2-10, wherein the nonionic surfactant d) is an ethoxylated fatty acid alkyl esters having between 2 to 100 ethylene oxide units is selected from the group comprising ethoxylated methyl caprylate, ethoxylated methyl caprate, ethoxylated methyl laurate, ethoxylated methyl myristate, ethoxylated methyl palmitate, ethoxylated methyl margarate, ethoxylated methyl stearate, ethoxylated methyl oleate, ethoxylatedmethyl linoleate, ethoxylated methyl alpha-linoleate, ethoxylated methyl linolenate, ethoxylated methyl arachidate, ethoxylated methyl behenate, ethoxylated methyl erucate, ethoxylated methyl lignocerate, ethoxylated methyl ricinoleate, ethoxylated methyl hydrogenated ricinoleate, and the mixture thereof.

12. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 2-11, wherein the nonionic surfactant d) is a triglyceride ethoxylated fatty acid ester having between 2 to 100 ethylene oxide units is selected from the group comprising ethoxylated triglyceride caprylate, ethoxylated triglyceride caprate, ethoxylated triglyceride laurate, ethoxylated triglyceride myristate, ethoxylated triglyceride palmitate, ethoxylated triglyceride margarate, ethoxylated triglyceride stearate, ethoxylated triglyceride oleate, ethoxylated triglyceride linoleate, ethoxylated triglyceride alpha-linoleate, ethoxylated triglyceride linolenate, ethoxylated triglyceride arachidate, ethoxylated triglyceride behenate, ethoxylated triglyceride erucate, ethoxylated triglyceride lignocerate, ethoxylated triglyceride ricinoleate, ethoxylated triglyceride hydrogenated ricinoleate, and the mixture thereof.

13. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 2-12, wherein the nonionic surfactant d) is a sorbitan ethoxylated fatty acid ester having between 2 to 100 ethylene oxide units is selected from the group comprising ethoxylated sorbitan caprylate, ethoxylated sorbitan caprate, ethoxylated sorbitan laurate, ethoxylated sorbitan myristate, ethoxylated sorbitan palmitate, ethoxylated sorbitan margarate, ethoxylated sorbitan stearate, ethoxylated sorbitan oleate, ethoxylated sorbitan linoleate, ethoxylated sorbitan alphalinoleate, ethoxylated sorbitan linolenate, ethoxylated sorbitan arachidate, ethoxylated sorbitan behenate, ethoxylated sorbitan erucate, ethoxylated sorbitan lignocerate, ethoxylated sorbitan ricinoleate, ethoxylated sorbitan hydrogenated ricinoleate, and the mixture thereof.

14. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 2-13, wherein the nonionic surfactant d) is an ethoxylated fatty alcohol having between 2 to 100 ethylene oxide units is selected from the group comprising ethoxylated caprylic alcohol, ethoxylated capric alcohol, ethoxylated lauric alcohol, ethoxylated myristic alcohol, ethoxylated palmitic alcohol, ethoxylated margaric alcohol, ethoxylated stearic alcohol, ethoxylated oleic alcohol, ethoxylated linoleic alcohol, ethoxylated alpha-linoleic alcohol, ethoxylated linolenic alcohol, ethoxylated arachidic alcohol, ethoxylated behenic acid, ethoxylated erucic alcohol, ethoxylated lignoceric alcohol, ethoxylated ricinoleic alcohol, ethoxylated hydrogenated ricinoleic acid, and the mixture thereof.

15. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 2-14, wherein the nonionic surfactant d) ethylene oxide-propylene oxide (EO-PO) block copolymers having between 2 to 100 ethylene oxide and propylene oxide units.

16. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 2-15, wherein the nonionic surfactant d) is an a poloxamer defined as nonionic triblock copolymers composed of a central hydrophobic chain of polyoxypropylene (polyfpropylene oxide)) flanked by two hydrophilic chains of polyoxyethylene (polyfethylene oxide)), and the mixture thereof.

17. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 2-16, wherein the organic solvent e) is selected from the group comprising pentane, hexane, cyclohexane, acetone, 2-butanone, cyclohexanone, methanol, ethanol, propanol, butanol, pentanol, hexanol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dimethylacetamide, dimethylsulfoxide, ethyl acetate, acetonitrile, polyethylene glycol 400, and the mixtures thereof.

18. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 1-17, wherein the weight ratio of the glufosinate-ammonium a) to the primary C6-C24- alkylamine b) is from 1:10 to 500:1.

19. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 2-18, wherein the weight ratio of the glufosinate-ammonium a) to the compound of formula (I) c) is from 1:20 to 50:1.

20. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 2-19, wherein the weight ratio of the glufosinate-ammonium a) to the nonionic surfactant d) is from 1:40 to 10:1.

21. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 2-20, wherein the weight ratio of the glufosinate-ammonium a) to the organic solvent e) is from 1:90 to 5:1.

22. The agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 1-21, further comprising adjuvant and / or stabilizer.

23. A method for preparing the liquid composition according to any one of claims 1- 22, comprising:(i) preparation of aqueous phase by mixing of glufosinate-ammonium a) and water f) at a temperature of from 40°C to 90°C,(ii) preparing of organic phase by mixing of primary C6-C24-alkylamine b), compound of formula (I) c), nonionic surfactant d), and organic solvent e) at a temperature of from 40°C to 90°C,(iii) addition of the aqueous phase obtained in (i) to an organic phase obtained in (ii) and mixing until homogenization.

24. An aqueous agrochemical composition of glufosinate-ammonium comprising normal direct nanomicelles or reversed inverted nanomicelles.

25. Preparing of an aqueous agrochemical composition according to claim 24, comprising diluting the liquid composition according to any of claims 1-23 with water.

26. The agrochemical composition according to any of claims 24-25, wherein the normal direct nanomicelles or reversed inverted nanomicelles having a size of from 20nm to 300nm.

27. The agrochemical normal direct nanomicelles or reversed inverted nanomicelles according to any of claims 24-26, having positive zeta potential of from 5mV to80mV.

28. An aqueous agrochemical composition of glufosinate-ammonium comprising liquid-crystal system.

29. Preparing of an aqueous agrochemical composition according to claim 28, comprising diluting the liquid composition according to any of claims 1-23 with water.

30. The aqueous agrochemical composition according to any of claims 28-29, wherein the structure of liquid crystals system is lamellar, cubic, hexagonal, and the mixture thereof.

31. The aqueous agrochemical composition of according to any of claims 28-30, wherein the structure of liquid crystals system having a size of from 20nm to 300nm.

32. The aqueous agrochemical composition of according to any of claims 28-31, wherein the structure of liquid crystals system having a positive zeta potential of from 5mV to 80mV.

33. A method of controlling weed comprising applying to a locus an effective amount of the agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 1-32.

34. The method according to claim 33, wherein said locus is a field of crop.

35. The method according to any of claims 33-34, wherein said crop is selected from soybean, corn, canola, and cotton.

36. The method according to any of claims 33-35, wherein said weed and / or grass is selected from Amaranthus retroflexus (AMARE), Solarium nigrum (SOLNI), Digitaria sanguinalis (DIGSA), Echinochloa crus-galli (ECHCG), Soghum halepense (SORHA), and the mixture thereof.

37. A method for protecting crop propagation material from weeds and / or grass comprising applying to the site where the plant propagation material grows, or the site where the plant propagation material is to be planted with an effectiveamount of said agrochemical liquid composition according to any one of claims 1- 32.

38. The method according to claim 37, wherein the weed and / or grass is Amaranthus retroflexus (AMARE), Solarium nigrum (SOLNI), Digitaria sanguinalis (DIGSA), Echinochloa crus-galli (ECHCG), Soghum halepense (SORHA).

39. The method according to any claims 37-38, wherein the crop is soybean, corn, canola, and cotton.

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