Clomazone–Diuron Formulation to Prevent Recrystallization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Formulating stable mixtures of clomazone and diuron is challenging due to issues like crystal growth, Ostwald ripening, and viscosity control, particularly because diuron is insoluble in water and most organic solvents, leading to undesired recrystallization and settling.
Innovation Solution
A formulation comprising clomazone, a second active ingredient with solubility above 35 g/L at 23 °C, diuron, and a first solvent more soluble than diuron, with specific weight proportions to prevent diuron recrystallization and achieve optimal viscosity, using fumed and pyrogenic silica.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If diuron is used in the formulation, then herbicidal activity is improved, but crystal growth and Ostwald ripening occur due to low solubility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a solubility-enhancing agent as an intermediary substance that mediates between diuron and the formulation matrix. This agent increases diuron's solubility without affecting its herbicidal activity, preventing crystal growth and Ostwald ripening while maintaining the desired herbicidal effect
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the physical-chemical parameters of the formulation by adjusting pH, temperature, and solvent composition to enhance diuron solubility. These parameter changes prevent phase separation and crystal formation, maintaining formulation stability while preserving herbicidal activity
2Stability of the object's composition
If more solvent is added to dissolve diuron, then solubility is improved, but viscosity control becomes difficult and solids settle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the solvent-to-solide ratio and adjusts formulation parameters such as pH and temperature to achieve maximum solubility at minimal solvent concentration. This prevents excessive viscosity while maintaining complete dissolution of diuron and preventing solid settlement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite formulation system combining multiple solvents, solubility-enhancing agents, and stabilizers that work synergistically. This composite approach achieves high solubility with controlled viscosity and prevents sedimentation, balancing all conflicting requirements
3Adaptability or versatility
If clomazone and diuron are combined, then spectrum of control is broadened, but formulation stability decreases due to incompatibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces compatibility agents as intermediaries between clomazone and diuron molecules. These agents prevent direct interaction between the two herbicides that would cause instability, allowing both to coexist in the formulation while maintaining their individual modes of action and broadening the spectrum of control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent develops a composite formulation matrix that accommodates both clomazone and diuron through carefully selected excipients and solvents. This composite structure maintains physical and chemical stability of the mixture while preserving the herbicidal activities of both components for broad-spectrum weed control
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The formulation stabilizes clomazone and diuron, preventing crystal growth and maintaining optimal viscosity, enhancing the formulation's stability and usability.
Implementation Method 1
a second active ingredient having a solubility in clomazone above 35 g/L at 23 °C
Implementation Method 2
the amount of said first solvent is enough to solubilize any second active ingredient not solubilized in clomazone
Implementation Method 3
Due to its low solubility diuron is prone to Ostwald ripening, partially dissolving and then recrystallizing around other solids, resulting in an undesired crystal growth
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a formulation comprising: i) clomazone; ii) a second active ingredient having a solubility in clomazone above 35 g/L at 23 °C; iii) diuron; and iv) a first solvent in which said second active ingredient is more soluble than diuron; wherein the amount of clomazone is not enough to solubilize all of the second active ingredient present in the formulation; wherein the amount of said first solvent is enough to solubilize any second active ingredient not solubilized in clomazone; and wherein the weight proportion between the first solvent and the second active ingredient is less than 1.39. The invention also covers tank mixtures of the formulation, and weeding methods.