Humic Acid–Polymer Pest Control Compositions for Light-Stable Bt

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing pest control compositions are not effective in maintaining Bacillus thuringiensis activity after exposure to light, and there is a need for improved formulations that enhance pest control efficacy.

Innovation Solution

A pest control composition comprising humic acid, a polymer with specific molecular weight and monomeric structural units, and Bacillus thuringiensis, which exhibits synergistic effects to maintain and enhance Bacillus thuringiensis activity under light exposure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional pest control compositions are used, then initial pest control activity is achieved, but Bacillus thuringiensis activity is lost after exposure to light

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveBacillus thuringiensis activityVSAvoidactivity maintenance after light exposure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces humic acid and a specific polymer as intermediary substances that mediate between Bacillus thuringiensis and light exposure. These intermediaries form a protective system that absorbs or shields UV radiation, preventing direct damage to the bacterial spores and crystalline proteins, thereby maintaining their pesticidal activity after light exposure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention creates a composite formulation combining Bacillus thuringiensis with humic acid and a polymer having specific molecular weight (10,000-30,000 daltons) and monomeric structural units (20-100 wt% from monomers with log P 2.0-6.0). This composite material provides synergistic protection where each component contributes to stabilizing the others against light-induced degradation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If polymer with appropriate molecular weight and composition is added, then Bacillus thuringiensis activity is maintained after light exposure, but formulation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveBacillus thuringiensis activityVSAvoidformulation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent specifies precise parameter ranges for the polymer component: molecular weight of 10,000-30,000 daltons, monomeric structural units comprising 20-100 wt% from monomers with log P values of 2.0-6.0. By optimizing these parameters, the formulation achieves effective light protection while controlling viscosity and application properties, balancing performance with practical usability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20250302050A1Pest control compositions
Publication Date: 2025.10.02 DOW GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES LLC

AI summary

A pest control composition includes humic acid, a polymer having a weight average molecular weight from 10,000 daltons to 30,000 daltons and containing from 20 wt % to 100 wt % of monomeric structural units derived from a monomer with log P from 2.0 to 6.0. Bacillus thuringiensis and water.