Microemulsion Herbicide Synergy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current herbicide mixtures of Dicamba and 2,4-D, when applied separately, do not exhibit a synergistic effect and face challenges in weed control, especially with resistant weeds like Conyza spp., and require higher amounts and more complex application processes.
Innovation Solution
A microemulsion formulation combining 7.5% to 40% 2,4-D and 1.2% to 35% Dicamba in their acidic forms, along with emulsifiers, co-solvents, pH correctors, defoamers, and antifreeze agents, to create a synergistic herbicidal composition for effective weed control in various crops and uncultivated areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional tank mix formulations of Dicamba and 2,4-D are used, then application complexity increases and control efficacy decreases, but achieving weed control requires higher amounts of active ingredients
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines Dicamba and 2,4-D into a single microemulsion formulation, merging two separate herbicide applications into one unified product. This integration achieves synergistic effects that improve weed control efficacy while reducing the total quantity of active ingredients needed compared to conventional tank mixes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes microemulsion technology to change the physical state and delivery parameters of the herbicide mixture. By forming microemulsion droplets with specific size ranges (0.1-10 μm), the formulation improves penetration and uptake efficiency, allowing effective weed control at lower active ingredient concentrations
2Reliability
If separate applications of Dicamba and 2,4-D are used, then application process becomes more complex, but synergistic effect is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges Dicamba and 2,4-D into a single pre-formulated microemulsion product, eliminating the need for field mixing and separate application equipment. This unified formulation maintains synergistic herbicidal effects while significantly simplifying the application process for end users
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs the formulation and compatibility optimization work in advance during manufacturing, creating a ready-to-use microemulsion that guarantees synergistic effects. This preliminary action eliminates the complexity of field formulation and ensures consistent performance without requiring complex application procedures
3Reliability
If higher amounts of active ingredients are applied, then weed control efficacy improves, but environmental impact increases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the delivery parameters through microemulsion formulation, creating ultra-fine droplets (0.1-10 μm) that improve penetration and uptake efficiency. This parameter change allows achieving the same or better weed control efficacy at lower active ingredient rates, thereby reducing environmental impact
Solution Approach 2:
The microemulsion acts as an intermediary delivery system that enhances the bioavailability and efficiency of the herbicide active ingredients. This intermediary formulation improves the relationship between applied dose and actual effectiveness, reducing waste and environmental burden while maintaining control efficacy
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 achieves up to 60% reduction in active ingredient usage, improved control efficacy, and reduced packaging needs, demonstrating a synergistic effect with higher control rates compared to conventional treatments and tank mixes, while being simpler to apply and more environmentally friendly.
Implementation Method 1
the microemulsion formulation that includes at least the two active ingredients, if compared to the conventional tank mix; this greater efficiency being attributed to the chemical compatibility that exists in the 'ready mix' achieved by the correct choice of emulsifiers to maintain active ingredients in an emulsion
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a formulation having at least two auxinic hormonal herbicides, normally used separately in applications to control a wide variety of broadleaf weeds, present in fields without cultivation, during chemical fallows, and in crops such as winter cereals, corn and sorghum, that together have a synergistic effect on weed control. This effect is even greater in the microemulsion formulation that includes at least the two active ingredients, if compared to the conventional tank mix, this greater efficiency being attributed to the chemical compatibility that exists in the “ready mix” achieved by the correct choice of emulsifiers to maintain active emulsion, physical compatibility that translates into greater biological efficacy. Preferably, the herbicidal composition has at least: (i) from 7.5% to 40% of 2,4-D in its acidic form; and (ii) from 1.2% to 35% of Dicamba in its acid formic as active ingredients, formulated together in a microemulsion type formulation.