Claims:
1. A plant protection composition comprising
a. at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pretilachlor;
b. at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pendimethalin;
c. at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w of an herbicide selected from an Amino acid inhibitor or a protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibitor.

2. The composition as claimed in claim 1, additionally comprising a mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Phaeophyceae.

3. The composition as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the Amino acid inhibitor is selected from a group comprising of Pyrazosulfuron ethyl, Bensulfuron-methyl, ethoxysulfuron, metsulfuron methyl, chlorimuron ethyl, Amidosulfuron; Azimsulfuron; Bensulfuron, Chlorimuron, Flucarbazone, Flucetosulfuron, Halosulfuron, Imazapic, Imazosulfuron, Metazosulfuron, Metsulfuron, Orthosulfamuron, Penoxulum, Propyrisulfuron, Pyriftalid, Pyriminnobac methyl, Pyrimisulfan, and Triafamone or a combination thereof.

4. The composition as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the PPO inhibitor is selected from a group comprising of oxyfluorfen, pyraclonil; oxadiargyl; oxadiazon; and quinclorac, or a combination thereof.

5. The composition as claimed in claim 2, wherein the linear copolymeric polysaccharides is obtained from Phaeophyceae family selected from one or more of Ascophyllum nodosum, Ecklonia maxima, Durvillea Antarctica, Durvillea protatorum, Fucus vesiculosus, Sargassum spp., Hydroclathrus spp., Ralfsia spp., Laminaria digitata, Cystoseira myriophylloides, Fucus spiralis, Padina pavonica, Fucus gardneri, Durvillaea Antarctica.

6. The composition as claimed in claim 3 or 4, wherein the herbicide is oxyfluorfen or Pyrazosulfuron ethyl, in an amount ranging from at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w.

7. The composition as claimed in claim 2, wherein the mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Phaeophyceae is present in an amount of at least 2 to 8 % w/w.

8. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composition additionally comprises adjuvants selected from the group comprising of wetting agents, dispersing agents, anti-foaming agent, surfactant, emulsifier, a transplant shock recovery agent, a rheology modifier, a binding agent, a biocide, a coloring agent, a filler, a binder, a surfactant, an anti-freezing agent, a solvent, an aqueous diluent or a combination thereof.

9. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composition is a dry composition.

10. The composition as claimed in claim 9, wherein the dry composition is selected from a group comprising of granule formulation, water dispersible granules (WDG), wettable powders (WP), GR (granules), DF (dry flowable), DP (Dusting powder).

11. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composition is a liquid composition.

12. The composition as claimed in claim 11, wherein the liquid composition is selected from a group comprising of suspension concentrate (SC), oil dispersions (OD), or a micro-emulsion (ME), EC (Emulsion concentrate).

13. The composition as claimed in claim 9, wherein the composition is in the form of granule (GR) formulation comprising –
a. at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pretilachlor;
b. at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pendimethalin; and
c. at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w of an herbicide selected from Pyrazosulfuron ethyl or Oxyfluorfen; in presence or absence of
d. a mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Phaeophyceae.

14. The composition as claimed in claim 13, wherein the composition is in the form of water dispersible granules (WDG) comprising –
a. at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pretilachlor;
b. at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pendimethalin; and
c. at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w of an herbicide selected from Pyrazosulfuron ethyl or Oxyfluorfen; in presence or absence of
d. a mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Phaeophyceae.

15. The composition as claimed in claim 12, wherein the composition is in the form of suspension concentrate (SC) comprising –
a. at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pretilachlor;
b. at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pendimethalin; and
c. at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w of an herbicide selected from Pyrazosulfuron ethyl or Oxyfluorfen, in presence or absence of
d. a mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Phaeophyceae.

16. The composition as claimed in claim 12, wherein the composition is in the form of emulsifiable concentrate (EC) comprising –
a. at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pretilachlor;
b. at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pendimethalin; and
c. at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w of Oxyfluorfen.

17. The composition as claimed in claim 1 or 2, for protecting seedlings from transplanting shock or harmful weeds or both.

18. A method of preparing a plant protection composition, the method comprising the steps of:
a. mixing at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pretilachlor, at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pendimethalin, at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w of an herbicide selected from an Amino acid inhibitor or a protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibitor, to obtain a premix;
b. adding solvent to the premix, to obtain a blend.

19. The method as claimed in claims 17, wherein the composition is in a dry form, the method comprising the steps of:
a. adsorbing pretilachlor in an amount ranging from at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w, and pendimethalin in an amount ranging from at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w on fillers to obtain a premix;
b. blending the premix to obtain a blend;
c. blending herbicide selected from an Amino acid inhibitor or a protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibitor, and adjuvant to obtain a primary mix;
d. Mixing and grinding the primary mix to obtain a fine powder;
e. making a dough of the fine powder using water;
f. granulating the dough to obtain extruded granules; and
g. drying the extruded granules at a temperature at least from 50°C to 90°C to a final moisture from at least 2% to 4%.

20. The method of preparing the suspension concentrate (SC) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the composition is in a liquid form, the method comprising the steps of:
a. dissolving surfactant with weighed quantity of water to obtain a surfactant solution;
b. adding pendimethalin in an amount ranging from at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w, pretilachlor in an amount ranging from at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w, herbicide selected from a group comprising of an Amino acid inhibitor or a protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibitor, antifoaming agent, anti-freezing agent to the surfactant solution while stirring to obtain a mix;
c. grinding and milling the mix to obtain a milled solution with the particle size of < 15 microns;
d. adding an adjuvant in the milled solution under stirring to obtain a solution; and
e. jellifying the solution of step d. with a rheology modifier and a biocide.

21. The method of preparing the EC (Emulsion concentrate) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the composition is in a liquid form, the method comprising the steps of:
a. dissolving pretilachlor in an amount ranging from at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w, and pendimethalin in an amount ranging from at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w and at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w of Oxyfluorfen in a solvent;
b. homogenously mixing the above premix in a vessel; and
c. adding and mixing surfactants, emulsifiers into the vessel, to obtain homogenised stable formulation.

22. The method as claimed in any one of claims 18-21, wherein the method additionally comprises a step of mixing a mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Phaeophyceae.

23. The method as claimed in claim 18, wherein the filler is selected from a group comprising of kaolin, clays, talc, chalk, glass fiber, highly disperse silica, silicates, diatomite, calcite, talcum, carbonates such as calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, wood flour, corn starch, cellulose, lactose monohydrate, ammonium sulfate, pulverized wood, diatomaceous earth, montmorillonite, and highly dispersed silicic acid or mixtures thereof.

24. The method as claimed in claim 19, wherein the surfactants are selected from a group comprising of ionic and non-ionic products and include solutions of organo-modified polyacrylates, polyacrylates, sodium polyacrylate, alkylsulfonates, modified polyethers, alkyl aryl sulfonate, polyoxyethylene fatty alcohol ethers, alkyl naphthalene sulfonate, polycarboxylates, phenol sulfonates, alkyl sulfates, dialkylsulfosuccinates, alkyl ether sulfates, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether sulfate, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether phosphate, polyoxyethylene alkyl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylene alkyl phenyl ether sulfate, polyoxyethylene alkyl aryl ether sulfate, polyoxyethylene alkyl aryl ether phosphate, polyoxyethylene alkyl aryl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylenestyrylphenylether sulfate, polyoxyethylenestyrylphenyl ether, polyoxyethylene alkyl ester, polyethylene glycol monomethyl ether, polyoxyethylenestyrylphenyl ether polymer, polyoxyalkylene glycol and ammonium salts of aromatic sulfonic acids such as ligninsulfonic acid, phenolsulfonic acid, naphthalene sulfonic acid, dibutyl naphthalene sulfonic acid, condensates of naphthalene or of naphthalene sulfonic acid with phenol and formaldehyde such as naphthalene sulfonate-formaldehyde condensate, alkyl naphthalene sulfonate-formaldehyde condensate, phenolsulfonic acid formaldehyde polycondensate as sodium salt, fatty alcohol sulfates, fatty alcohol ethoxylate and sulfated hexa-, hepta- and octadecanolates, sulfated fatty alcohol glycol ethers and suitable rheological additives such as hetero polysaccharide or mixtures thereof.

25. The method as claimed in claim 19, wherein the antifoaming agent is selected from a group comprising of dimethylpolysiloxane, magnesium stearate, silicone emulsions, long chain alcohols, fatty acids, fatty acid esters, salts of fatty acids, fluoro organic compounds, silicone oils, mineral oils, polyether siloxane copolymer containing fumed silica, silicone defoamers, non-silicone defoamers, arylalkyl modified polysiloxanes, non-silicone defoamers selected from polyethers and polyacrylates, mono and diethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, glycerin or mixtures thereof.

26. The method as claimed in claim 19, wherein the anti-freezing agent is selected from a group comprising of ethylene glycol, 1,2-propylene glycol, 1,3-propylene glycol, 1,2-butanediol, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, 1,4-pentanediol, 3-methyl-1,5-pentanediol, 2,3-dimethyl-2,3-butanediol, trimethylol propane, mannitol, sorbitol, glycerol, pentaerythritol, 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol, xylenol, bisphenols such as bisphenol A or the like. In addition, ether alcohols such as diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, urea, tetraethylene glycol, polyoxyethylene or polyoxypropylene glycols of molecular weight up to about 4000, diethylene glycol monomethylether, diethylene glycol monoethylether, triethylene glycol monomethylether, butoxyethanol, butylene glycol monobutylether, dipentaerythritol, tripentaerythritol, tetrapentaerythritol, diglycerol, triglycerol, tetraglycerol, pentaglycerol, hexaglycerol, heptaglycerol, octaglycerol or mixtures thereof.

27. The method as claimed in claim 19, wherein the rheology modifier is selected from a group comprising of gums, silica, silicon dioxide, attagel, agar, alginic acid, alginate salt or mixtures thereof.

28. The method as claimed in claim 25, wherein the gums are selected from a group comprising of xanthan gum, gum arabic, gun ghatti, gum karaya, gum tragacanth, guar gum, or locust bean gum or mixtures thereof.

29. The method as claimed in claim 19, wherein the biocide is selected from a group comprising of nipacide BT 20, sodium benzoate, 1,2-benzisothiazoline-3-one, 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, potassium sorbate and parahydroxy benzoates or mixtures thereof.
, Description:
FORM 2

THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
[See section 10, Rule 13]

SYNERGISTIC HERBICIDE COMPOSITIONS WITH TRANSPLANT SHOCK
RECOVERY ADJUVANT

BIOSTADT INDIA LIMITED, A COMPANY REGISTERED UNDER THE LAWS OF INDIA, WHOSE ADDRESS IS POONAM CHAMBER, `A` WING, DR. ANNIE BESANT RD., WORLI, MUMBAI - 400018, MAHARASHTRA, INDIA

THE FOLLOWING SPECIFICATION PARTICULARLY DESCRIBES THE INVENTION AND THE MANNER IN WHICH IT IS TO BE PERFORMED.

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a plant protection composition, and a method of preparing the same.

Background of the Invention

With the increasing population, it is becoming increasingly important to improve crop production.
The protection of crops from weeds and other vegetation which inhibit crop growth is a constantly recurring problem in agriculture. To help combat this problem, researchers in the field of synthetic chemistry have produced an extensive variety of chemicals and chemical formulations effective in the control of such unwanted growth. Chemical herbicides of many types have been disclosed in the literature and a large number are in commercial use.

Generally, the rice cultivation method includes uprooting and transplanting paddy seedlings into the main field. By this method, the rice crop is given an advantage over the weeds. However, this procedure delays the development of seedlings. There are chances of injury to the seedlings while uprooting and transplanting. Also, there is an imbalance between water uptake and transpiration, leading to water stress. It has been seen that the changes in water content and pruning also disturbs various metabolic processes. As a result, the growth and development of seedlings temporarily stagnates. This effect is known as the ‘transplant shock’.

Apart from transplant shock, weeds are also responsible for low grain yield. Weeds account for highest potential yield loss, in comparison with pathogens or pests. Weeds compete with the crops for water, nutrients, sunlight, etc. Further, weeds can be home to several pathogens harmful to the crops.

Herbicides are pesticides useful for killing or controlling unwanted plants. Generally, there are two kinds of herbicides-selective and non-selective. Selective herbicides kill certain target weeds while leaving the desired crop relatively unharmed while non-selective herbicides kill both the weeds and crops. Profitable crop production depends on effective weed control. The weeds can reduce field crop yields by competing for water, sunlight and nutrients.

Since the weed-crop competition is critical during the early stages of crop cycle, the weed interference at early stage has a direct impact on the yield of the crop. At same time crop establishment is critical factor in determining yields and profitability.

There remains a great need for immediate crop/seedling recovery after the application of such herbicides; without adversely affecting desirable plants, reducing the amount of chemical herbicidal agent necessary to obtain the acceptable weed control, and further protecting the crop from transplant shock.

Summary of the Invention

Present invention relates to a plant protection composition. The composition comprises at least 3.0 % to 30.0% w/w of Pretilachlor, at least 3.0 % to 30.0% w/w of pendimethalin, and at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w of an herbicide selected from an Amino acid inhibitor or a protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibitor. The composition optionally contains a mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Phaeophyceae.

The present invention also relates to a method of preparing a plant protection composition. In this method, at least 3.0 % to 30.0% w/w of pretilachlor, at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pendimethalin, and at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w of an herbicide. To this premix, water is added to obtain a blend. The method optionally contains a step of mixing a mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Phaeophyceae.

Description of the Invention

An embodiment of the present invention relates to a plant protection composition comprising at least 3.0 % to 30.0 w/w of pretilachlor, at least 3.0 % to 30.0% w/w of pendimethalin, at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w of an herbicide selected from an Amino acid inhibitor or a protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibitor.

In another embodiment, the plant protection composition comprises at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pretilachlor, at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pendimethalin, and at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w of a herbicide selected from an Amino acid inhibitor or a protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibitor in presence or absence of a mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Phaeophyceae.

The Amino acid inhibitor is selected from a group comprising of Pyrazosulfuron ethyl, Bensulfuron-methyl, ethoxysulfuron, metsulfuron methyl, chlorimuron ethyl, Amidosulfuron; Azimsulfuron; Bensulfuron, Chlorimuron, Flucarbazone, Flucetosulfuron, Halosulfuron, Imazapic, Imazosulfuron, Metazosulfuron, Metsulfuron, Orthosulfamuron, Penoxulum, Propyrisulfuron, Pyriftalid, Pyriminnobac methyl, Pyrimisulfan, and Triafamone or a combination thereof.

The PPO inhibitor is selected from a group comprising of oxyfluorfen, pyraclonil, oxadiargyl, oxadiazon, and quinclorac, or a combination thereof.

The linear copolymeric polysaccharides are obtained from Phaeophyceae family selected from one or more of Ascophyllum nodosum, Ecklonia maxima, Durvillea Antarctica, Durvillea protatorum, Fucus vesiculosus, Sargassum spp., Hydroclathrus spp., Ralfsia spp., Laminaria digitata, Cystoseira myriophylloides, Fucus spiralis, Padina pavonica, Fucus gardneri, Durvillaea Antarctica. Preferably, the linear copolymeric polysaccharides are obtained from Ascophyllum nodosum.

Preferably the Amino acid inhibitor herbicide is Pyrazosulfuron ethyl, and the PPO inhibitor herbicide is Oxyfluorfen. Thus, the herbicide is oxyfluorfen or Pyrazosulfuron ethyl, in an amount ranging from at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w.

Preferably, the mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides is present in an amount of at least 2 to 8 % w/w.

In an embodiment, the composition further comprises adjuvants selected from the group comprising one or more of –
- wetting agents selected form a group comprising Alkyl naphthalene sulfonate, Polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene, Fatty alcohol ethoxylate, Arylalkyl sulfonate (CABS - Calcium salt of Alkyl Benzene Sulfonate) Sorbitan ethoxylate esters, Tristyrylphenol ethoxylate, Polycarboxylate (Geropon SC 213), Polyoxyethylene styrylphenyl ether, Polyoxyethylene phenyl glycol ether, Sulfonated lignins, Alcohol Ethoxylated, Polynaphthalene sulphonic acid (Dispersant NNO, Morwet D425, Pluronic P123,
- dispersing agents selected from a group comprising Alkyl naphthalene sulfonate, Polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene, Fatty alcohol ehtoxylate, Arylalkyl sulfonate (CABS), Sorbitan ethoxylate esters, Tristyrylphenol ethoxylate, Polycarboxylate (Geropon SC 213), Polyoxyethylene styrylphenyl ether, Polyoxyethylene phenyl glycol ether, Sulfonated lignins, Alcohol Ethoxylated, Polynaphthalene sulphonic acid (Dispersant NNO, Morwet D425, Pluronic P123,
- anti-foaming agent selected from a group comprising of dimethylpolysiloxane, magnesium stearate, silicone emulsions, long chain alcohols, fatty acids, fatty acid esters, salts of fatty acids, fluoro organic compounds, silicone oils, mineral oils, polyether siloxane copolymer containing fumed silica, silicone defoamers, non-silicone defoamers, arylalkyl modified polysiloxanes, non-silicone defoamers selected from polyethers and polyacrylates, mono and diethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, glycerin, or mixtures thereof,
- a rheology modifier selected from a group comprising of gums selected from a group comprising of xanthan gum, gum arabic, gun ghatti, gum karaya, gum tragacanth, guar gum, or locust bean gum or mixtures thereof; silica, silicon dioxide, attagel, agar, alginic acid, alginate salt or mixtures thereof,
- a binding agent, selected from a group comprising of Xanthan Gum, Guar-gum, starch, Aerosil,
- a biocide selected from a group comprising of nipacide BIT 20, sodium benzoate, 1,2-benzisothiazoline-3-one, 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, potassium sorbate and parahydroxy benzoates or mixtures thereof,
- a coloring agent, selected from pigments and dyes,
- a filler selected from a group comprising of kaolin, clays, talc, chalk, glass fiber, highly disperse silica, silicates, diatomite, calcite, talcum, carbonates such as calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, wood flour, corn starch, cellulose, lactose monohydrate, ammonium sulfate pulverized wood, diatomaceous earth, montmorillonite, and highly dispersed silicic acid or mixtures thereof,
- a surfactant selected from a group comprising of ionic and non-ionic products and include solutions of organo-modified polyacrylates, polyacrylates, sodium polyacrylate, alkylsulfonates, modified polyethers, alkyl aryl sulfonate, polyoxyethylene fatty alcohol ethers, alkyl naphthalene sulfonate, polycarboxylates, phenol sulfonates, alkyl sulfates, dialkylsulfosuccinates, alkyl ether sulfates, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether sulfate, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether phosphate, polyoxyethylene alkyl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylene alkyl phenyl ether sulfate, polyoxyethylene alkyl aryl ether sulfate, polyoxyethylene alkyl aryl ether phosphate, polyoxyethylene alkyl aryl phenyl ether, polyoxyethylenestyrylphenylether sulfate, polyoxyethylenestyrylphenyl ether, polyoxyethylene alkyl ester, polyethylene glycol monomethyl ether, polyoxyethylenestyrylphenyl ether polymer, polyoxyalkylene glycol and ammonium salts of aromatic sulfonic acids such as ligninsulfonic acid, phenolsulfonic acid, naphthalene sulfonic acid, dibutyl naphthalene sulfonic acid, condensates of naphthalene or of naphthalene sulfonic acid with phenol and formaldehyde such as naphthalene sulfonate-formaldehyde condensate, alkyl naphthalene sulfonate-formaldehyde condensate, phenolsulfonic acid formaldehyde polycondensate as sodium salt, fatty alcohol sulfates, fatty alcohol ethoxylate and sulfated hexa-, hepta- and octadecanolates, sulfated fatty alcohol glycol ethers and suitable rheological additives such as hetero polysaccharide or mixtures thereof,
- an anti-freezing agent selected from a group comprising of ethylene glycol, 1,2-propylene glycol, 1,3-propylene glycol, 1,2-butanediol, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, 1,4-pentanediol, 3-methyl-1,5-pentanediol, 2,3-dimethyl-2,3-butanediol, trimethylol propane, mannitol, sorbitol, glycerol, pentaerythritol, 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol, xylenol, bisphenols such as bisphenol A or the like. In addition, ether alcohols such as diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, urea, tetraethylene glycol, polyoxyethylene or polyoxypropylene glycols of molecular weight up to about 4000, diethylene glycol monomethylether, diethylene glycol monoethylether, triethylene glycol monomethylether, butoxyethanol, butylene glycol monobutylether, dipentaerythritol, tripentaerythritol, tetrapentaerythritol, diglycerol, triglycerol, tetraglycerol, pentaglycerol, hexaglycerol, heptaglycerol, octaglycerol or mixtures thereof,
- a solvent selected from a group comprising Hyrdrocarbons, Xylene, Cyclohexanone, Dimethyl formamide, N methyl pyrrolidone,
- an aqueous diluent selected from a group comprising lactose, microcrystalline cellulose-Avicel (PH 101 and PH 102), calcium phosphate, starch, sucrose, ammonium sulphate, sodium sulphate, lactose monohydrate,
- bentonite granule,
- silica granule,
- River sand,
- Kaolin, and
- Magnesium silicate hydroxide.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the plant protection composition is a dry composition selected from a group comprising of granule formulation, water dispersible granules (WDG), wettable powders (WP), DF (dry flowable), or DP (Dusting powder), GR (Granules).

In yet another aspect, the plant protection composition is a liquid composition selected from a group comprising of suspension concentrate (SC), oil dispersions (OD), micro-emulsion (ME) or EC (Emulsifiable concentrate).

The plant protection composition in the form of granules (GR) comprises at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pretilachlor, at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pendimethalin, and at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w of an herbicide selected from Pyrazosulfuron ethyl or Oxyfluorfen, in the presence or absence of a mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Phaeophyceae.

The plant protection composition in the form of water dispersible granules (WDG) comprises at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pretilachlor, at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pendimethalin, and at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w of an herbicide selected from Pyrazosulfuron ethyl or Oxyfluorfen, in the presence or absence of a mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Phaeophyceae.

The plant protection composition in the form of suspension concentrate (SC) comprises at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pretilachlor, at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pendimethalin, and at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w of an herbicide selected from Pyrazosulfuron ethyl or Oxyfluorfen, in the presence or absence of a mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Phaeophyceae.

The plant protection composition in the form of Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC) comprises at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pretilachlor; at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pendimethalin; and at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w of Oxyfluorfen.

The plant protection composition of the present invention protects seedlings from transplanting shock or harmful weeds or both.

In an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for preparing a plant protection composition. The method includes mixing at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pretilachlor, at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w of pendimethalin, and at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w of an herbicide selected from an amino acid inhibitor or a protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibitor to obtain a premix, and adding solvent to the premix, to obtain a blend.

In an aspect of the embodiment, the composition is a dry composition. The method of preparation of the dry composition comprises the steps of:
a. adsorbing pretilachlor in an amount ranging from at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w, and pendimethalin in an amount ranging from at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w on fillers to obtain a premix;
b. blending the premix to obtain a blend;
c. blending herbicide selected from an Amino acid inhibitor or a protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibitor, and adjuvant to obtain a primary mix;
d. Mixing or grinding the primary mix to fine powder to obtain a fine powder;
e. making a dough of the fine powder using water;
f. granulating the dough to obtain extruded granules; and
g. drying the extruded granules at a temperature of at least from 50°C to 90°C to a final moisture from at least 2% to 4%.

In another embodiment, the composition is a liquid composition. The method of preparation of the liquid composition comprises the steps of:
a. dissolving surfactant with weighed quantity of water to obtain a surfactant solution;
b. adding pendimethalin in an amount ranging from at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w, pretilachlor in an amount ranging from at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w, herbicide selected from a group comprising of an Amino acid inhibitor or a protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibitor, antifoaming agent, anti-freezing agent to the surfactant solution while stirring to obtain a mix;
c. grinding and milling the mix to obtain a milled solution with the particle size of < 15 microns;
d. adding an adjuvant in the milled solution under stirring to obtain a solution; and
e. jellifying the solution of step d. with a rheology modifier and a biocide.

In another embodiment, the liquid composition is selected from a Suspension Concentrate (SC) and an Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC) formulation.

In another embodiment, the liquid composition is a Suspension Concentrate (SC). The method of preparation of the Suspension Concentrate comprises the steps of:
a. dissolving surfactant with weighed quantity of water to obtain a surfactant solution;
b. adding pendimethalin in an amount ranging from at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w, pretilachlor in an amount ranging from at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w, herbicide selected from a group comprising of an Amino acid inhibitor or a protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) inhibitor, antifoaming agent, anti-freezing agent to the surfactant solution while stirring to obtain a mix;
c. grinding and milling the mix to obtain a milled solution with the particle size of < 15 microns;
d. adding an adjuvant in the milled solution under stirring to obtain a solution; and
e. jellifying the solution of step d. with a rheology modifier and a biocide.

In a further embodiment, the composition is Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC) formulation. The method of preparation of
(a) Dissolving pretilachlor in an amount ranging from at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w, and pendimethalin in an amount ranging from at least 3.0 % to 30.0 % w/w and at least 0.05% to 5.0 % w/w of Oxyfluorfen in a solvent,
(b) Homogenously mixing the above premix in a vessel, and
(c) Adding and mixing surfactants, emulsifiers into the vessel, to obtain homogenised stable formulation.

In an embodiment, the method for preparation of the plant protection composition, dry or liquid, further comprises a step of mixing a mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Phaeophyceae.

In an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for protecting a rice crop against one or more weeds with transplant shock recovery agent. The method includes providing a composition comprising pretilachlor, pendimethalin and pyrazosulfuron ethyl or oxyfluorfen; and applying an effective amount of the composition to the rice crop.

The weeds are grasses, broad leaf and sedges; which occur singly or in complex form during growth of the crop plants. Preferably, the weeds are Echinochloa colona, Leptochloa chienesis, Alternanthera sessilis, Eclipta alba, Cyperus rotundus, Cyperus diformis.

The plant protection composition disclosed herein is used to protect seedlings from transplant shock by means of soil treatment. The soil treatment is performed by broad casting composition in standing water after transplanting.

The dry plant protection composition of the present invention is applied to a rice crop in an amount ranging from 5 kg/ha to 20 kg/ha, in order to protect the rice crop from harmful effects of weeds. Preferably, the plant protection composition of the present invention is applied to a rice crop in an amount ranging from 10 kg/ha.

The liquid plant protection composition as per the present invention is provided in the form of a liquid formulation. The plant protection composition disclosed herein is applied to a rice crop in an amount ranging from 5 L/ha to 20 L/ha, in order to protect the rice crop from harmful effects of weeds. Preferably, the plant protection composition disclosed herein is applied to a rice crop in an amount ranging from 10 L/ha to 15 L/ha.

It has been found that the composition(s), provides effective/superior control of weeds and protects crop from transplant shock.

It was also found that the growth and yield parameters of certain crops including rice was better with the use of the specific combination as disclosed herein.
The mixture of linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Phaeophyceae was found to additionally enhance various growth and yield parameters of crops.

Examples

The following examples illustrate the invention and are not limiting thereof –

Examples 1-16 – Process steps for the preparation of dry composition: (GR & WDG formulations)
(a) Pretilachlor and Pendimethalin were adsorbed on fillers after melting. The amount of the ingredients in each Example is provided in Table 1 and 2 (GR formulation) and Table 3 and 4 (WDG formulation).
(b) Above premix was homogenously blended.
(c) All other excipients were charged in a ribbon blender and blended to homogeneity.
(d) Above homogenous premix was grinded to fine powder using air jet mill.
(e) Mixed and ground the premix in dough using appropriate quantity of water.
(f) The dough was granulated using an extruder by using 0.8 to 1.0 mm sieve.
(g) The extruded granules were dried in a FBD (Fluidized Bed Drier < 60°C) to a final moisture of less than 2%.

Table 1: Examples 1-4 (GR formulations)

Ingredients Example 1 (w/w) Example 2 (w/w) Example 3 (w/w) Example 4 (w/w)
Pretilachlor 13.50 8.00 6.00 3.50
Pendimethalin 20.50 12.00 9.00 4.50
Oxyfluorfen 2.50 1.40 1.00 0.72
Sodium lignosulfonate surfactant 3.00 3.00 1.50 1.50
Mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Ascophyllum nodosum 9.00 7.00 6.70 5.05
Silicon Defoamer (Anti-foaming agent) 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
Pigments (Colouring agent) 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
China clay 50.9 68.00 75.20 84.13
Total 100 100 100 100

Table 2: Examples 5-8 (GR formulations)

Ingredients Example 5 (w/w) Example 6 (w/w) Example 7 (w/w) Example 8 (w/w)
Pretilachlor 13.50 8.00 6.00 3.50
Pendimethalin 20.50 12.00 9.00 4.50
Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 0.36 0.20 0.15 0.08
Sodium lignosulfonate (Surfactant) 3.00 3.00 1.50 1.50
Mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Ascophyllum nodosum 9.00 7.00 6.70 5.05
Silicon Defoamer (Anti-foaming agent) 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
Pigments (Colouring agent) 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
China clay 53.04 69.20 76.05 84.77
Total 100 100 100 100

Table 3: Examples 9-12 (WDG formulations)

Ingredients Example 9 (w/w) Example 10 (w/w) Example 11 (w/w) Example 12 (w/w)
Pretilachlor 13.50 8.00 6.00 3.50
Pendimethalin 20.50 12.00 9.00 4.50
Oxyfluorfen 2.50 1.40 1.00 0.72
Sodium lignosulfonate surfactant 3.00 3.00 1.50 1.50
Mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Ascophyllum nodosum 9.00 7.00 6.70 5.05
Silicon Defoamer (Anti-foaming agent) 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
Pigments (Colouring agent) 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
China clay 50.9 68.00 75.20 84.13
Total 100 100 100 100

Table 4: Examples 13-16 (WDG formulations)

Ingredients Example 13 (w/w) Example 14 (w/w) Example 15 (w/w) Example 16 (w/w)
Pretilachlor 13.50 8.00 6.00 3.50
Pendimethalin 20.50 12.00 9.00 4.50
Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 0.36 0.20 0.15 0.08
Sodium lignosulfonate surfactant 3.00 3.00 1.50 1.50
Mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Ascophyllum nodosum 9.00 7.00 6.70 5.05
Silicon Defoamer (Anti-foaming agent) 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
Pigments (Colouring agent) 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
Silica/Magnesium silicate hydroxide (Binding agent) 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
China clay 51.04 67.20 74.05 82.77
Total 100 100 100 100

Examples 17-24 – Process steps for the preparation of liquid Suspension Concentrate SC composition:
(a) Surfactant was dissolved in weighed quantity of water.
(b) Weighed amount of pendimethalin, pretilachlor, oxyfluorfen, or pyrazosulfuron ethyl, antifoaming agent, anti-freezing agent was added to the above mixture while stirring. The amount of the ingredients in each Example is provided in Table 5 and 6.
(c) The composition was ground and mixed to the particle size of < 10 microns.
(d) To the milled solution, Mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Phaeophyceae or Ascophyllum nodosum was added and solubilized under stirring and the solution to be jellified with rheology modifier containing biocide to obtain homogeneous composition.

Table 5: Examples 17-20 (SC formulations)

Ingredients Example 17 (w/w) Example 18 (w/w) Example 19 (w/w) Example 20 (w/w)
Pretilachlor 13.50 8.00 6.00 3.50
Pendimethalin 20.50 12.00 9.00 4.50
Oxyfluorfen 2.50 1.40 1.00 0.72
Mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Ascophyllum nodosum 3.00 3.00 1.50 1.50
Condensate of naphthaline sulfonate sodium salt & acrylate co polymer (Surfactant) 15.00 12.00 11.00 7.00
Silicon Defoamer (Anti-foaming agent) 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
Glycerine/Polypropylene (Anti-freezing agent) 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00
Xanthan Gum (Rheology modifier) 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
(Nipacide BIT 20/ Formaldehyde (Biocide) 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Water 34.50 52.60 60.50 71.78
Total 100 100 100 100

Table 6: Examples 21-24 (SC formulations)

Ingredients Example 21 (w/w) Example 22 (w/w) Example 23 (w/w) Example 24 (w/w)
Pretilachlor 13.50 8.00 6.00 3.50
Pendimethalin 20.50 12.00 9.00 4.50
Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 0.36 0.20 0.15 0.08
Mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Ascophyllum nodosum 3.00 3.00 1.50 1.50
Condensate of naphthaline sulfonate sodium salt & acrylate co polymer (Surfactant) 15.00 12.00 11.00 7.00
Silicon Defoamer (Anti-foaming agent) 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50
Glycerine/Polypropylene (Anti-freezing agent) 10.00 10.00 10.00 10.00
Xanthan Gum (Rheology modifier) 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
Nipacide BIT 20/ Formaldehyde (Biocide) 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
Water 36.64 53.80 61.35 72.42
Total 100 100 100 100

Examples 25-28 – Process steps for the preparation of EC formulation:
(a) Pretilachlor, Pendimethalin and Oxyfluorfen were dissolved in a solvent. The amount of the ingredients in each Example is provided in Table 7.
(b) Above premix was homogenously mixed in a vessel.
(c) Surfactants, Emulsifiers were added into the vessel and mixed.
(e) The above was mixed to obtain homogenised stable formulation.

Table 7: Examples 25-28 (EC formulations)
Ingredients Example 25 (w/w) Example 26 (w/w) Example 27 (w/w) Example 28 (w/w)
Pretilachlor 13.50 8.00 6.00 3.50
Pendimethalin 20.50 12.00 9.00 4.50
Oxyfluorfen 2.50 1.40 1.00 0.72
Ethoxylated vegetable oils (Surfactant) 3.00 3.00 1.50 1.50
Calcium salt of alkyl aryl sulfonic acid 5 5 5 5
Polyalkoxyaryl ether 5 5 5 5
Solvent A (Dimethylformamide) 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00
Solvent B (C9 to C10) hydrocarbon 48.50 63.60 70.5 77.78
Total 100 100 100 100

Field Trials

Field trial on target weed Echinochloa colona and Leptochloa chienesis with the compositions as per present invention

Field trials were carried out to test the synergy/efficacy of the combination Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Oxyfluorfen as well as Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Pyrazosulfuron ethyl in specific amounts. The field trials were carried out at various locations in Meerut (UP). The percentage efficacy was calculated after 30 days of application. The target weed was EC = Echinochloa colona and LC = Leptochloa chienesis. The results are recorded in the Table 8.

Table 8
Dose % Weed Control
EC weed control in Rice at 30 DAA LC weed control in Rice at 30 DAA
Active Dose rate (g or ml/ha) Expected Actual Expected Actual
Untreated Control 0 0 0 0 0
Pretilachlor 50% EC (750 g) 1250 58 56
Pendimethalin 30% EC (990 g) 3300 37 38
Oxyfluorfen 23.5% EC (240 g) 1000 14 10
Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 10% WP (15 g) 150 8 5
Present Invention
Actual efficacy of Pretilachlor 600 g + Pendimethalin 900 g with Oxyfluorfen 100 g) 4000 77.24 100 75.45 100
Present Invention
Actual efficacy of Pretilachlor 600 g + Pendimethalin 900 g with Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 9 g) 4000 75.66 98.33 74.08 96.33
Efficacy Observed - Efficacy Expected (with Oxyfluorfen) 100 - 77.24 = 22.76 100 – 75.45 = 24.55
Efficacy Observed - Efficacy Expected (with Pyrazosulfuron ethyl) 98.33 - 75.66 = 22.67 96.33 – 74.08 = 22.25

It is clear from the above data of field trials in Table 8, that the composition as per the present application provides better technical effect in controlling weeds than the control or than each of the components when individually tested at higher doses.

Field trial on target weed Alternanthera sessilis and Eclipta alba with the compositions as per present invention

Field trials were carried out to test the synergy/efficacy of the combination Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Oxyfluorfen as well as Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Pyrazosulfuron ethyl in specific amounts. The field trials were carried out at various locations in Raipur (CG). The percentage efficacy was calculated after 30 days of application. The target weed was AS = Alternanthera sessilis and EA= Eclipta alba. The results are recorded in the Table 9.

Table 9
Dose % Weed Control
AS weed control in Rice at 30 DAA EA weed control in Rice at 30 DAA
Active Dose rate (g or ml/ha) Expected Actual Expected Actual
Untreated Control 0 0 0 0 0
Pretilachlor 50% EC (750 g) 1250 65 62
Pendimethalin 30% EC (990 g) 3300 27 34
Oxyfluorfen 23.5% EC (240 g) 1000 22 21
Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 10%WP (15 g) 150 39 37
Actual efficacy of Pretilachlor 600 g + Pendimethalin 900 g with Oxyfluorfen 100 g) 4000 80.07 100 80.19 100
Actual efficacy of Pretilachlor 600 g + Pendimethalin 900 g with Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 9 g) 4000 84.41 100 84.20 100
Efficacy Observed - Efficacy Expected (with Oxyfluorfen) 100 – 80.07 = 19.93 100 – 80.19 = 19.81
Efficacy Observed - Efficacy Expected (with Pyrazosulfuron ethyl) 100 – 84.41 = 15.59 100 – 84.20 = 15.80

It is clear from the above data of field trials in Table 9, that the composition as per the present application provides better technical effect in controlling weeds than the control or than each of the components when individually tested at higher doses.

Field trial on target weed Cyperus rotundus and Cyperus diformis with the compositions as per present invention

Field trials were carried out to test the synergy/efficacy of the combination Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Oxyfluorfen as well as Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Pyrazosulfuron ethyl. The field trials were carried out at various locations in Thanjavur (TN). The percentage efficacy was calculated after 30 days of application. The target weed was CR= Cyperus rotundus and CD = Cyperus diformis. The results are recorded in the Table 10.

Table 10
Dose % Weed Control
CR weed control in Rice at 30 DAA CD weed control in Rice at 30 DAA
Active Dose rate (g or ml/ha) Expected Actual Expected Actual
Untreated Control 0 0 0 0 0
Pretilachlor 50% EC (750 g) 1250 34 63
Pendimethalin 30% EC (990 g) 3300 17 24
Oxyfluorfen 23.5% EC (240 g) 1000 12 23
Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 10%WP (15 g) 150 19 34
Actual efficacy of Pretilachlor 600 g + Pendimethalin 900 g with Oxyfluorfen 100 g) 4000 51.79 76 78.35 100
Actual efficacy of Pretilachlor 600 g + Pendimethalin 900 g with Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 9 g) 4000 55.63 79 81.44 100
Efficacy Observed - Efficacy Expected (with Oxyfluorfen) 76 – 51.79 = 24.21 100 – 78.35 = 21.65
Efficacy Observed - Efficacy Expected (with Pyrazosulfuron ethyl) 79 – 55.63 = 23.37 100 – 81.44 = 18.56

It is clear from the above data of field trials in Table 10, that the composition as per the present application provides better technical effect in controlling weeds than the control or than each of the components when individually tested at higher doses.

Field trial on target weed Echinochloa colona and Leptochloa chienesis with Comparative Examples:

Field trials were carried out to test the synergy of the combination Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Oxyfluorfen as well as Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Pyrazosulfuron ethyl. The field trials were carried out at various locations in Meerut (UP). The percentage efficacy was calculated after 30 days of application. The target weed was EC= Echinochloa colona & LC= Leptochloa chienesis. The results are recorded in the Table 11.

Table 11
Dose % Weed Control
EC weed control in Rice at 30 DAA LC weed control in Rice at 30 DAA
Active Dose rate (g or ml/ha) Expected Actual Expected Actual
Untreated Control 0 0 0 0 0
Pretilachlor 50%EC (750 g) 1250 57 58
Pendimethalin 30%EC (990 g) 3300 38 37
Oxyfluorfen 23.5% EC (240 g) 1000 15 9
Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 10%WP (15 g) 150 9 6
Actual efficacy of Pretilachlor 3100 g + Pendimethalin 200 g with Oxyfluorfen 4 g) (Comparative Formulation – Amount of Pretilachlor is outside the scope of the invention) 10000 77.34 75 75.92 74
Actual efficacy of Pretilachlor 3100 g + Pendimethalin 200 g with Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 4 g) (Comparative Formulation – Amount of Pretilachlor is outside the scope of the invention) 10000 75.74 73 75.13 72
Efficacy Observed - Efficacy Expected (with Oxyfluorfen) 75 – 77.34 = -2.34 74 – 75.92 = -1.92
Efficacy Observed - Efficacy Expected (with Pyrazosulfuron) 73 – 75.24 = -2.74 72 – 75.13 = -3.13

It is clear from the above data of field trials in Table 11, that the composition as per the present application provides better technical effect in controlling weeds than the comparative compositions having amounts of ingredients outside the scope of the invention.

Field trial on target weed Alternanthera sessilis and Eclipta alba with comparative compositions

Field trials were carried out to test the synergy of the combination Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Oxyfluorfen as well as Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Pyrazosulfuron ethyl. The field trials were carried out at various locations in Raipur (CG). The percentage efficacy was calculated after 30 days of application. The target weed was AS= Alternanthera sessilis & EA= Eclipta alba. The results are recorded in the Table 12.

Table 12

Dose % Weed Control
AS weed control in Rice at 30 DAA EA weed control in Rice at 30 DAA
Active Dose rate (g or ml/ha) Expected Actual Expected Actual
Untreated Control 0 0 0 0 0
Pretilachlor 50%EC (750 g) 1250 64 63
Pendimethalin 30%EC (990 g) 3300 28 35
Oxyfluorfen 23.5% EC (240 g) 1000 21 22
Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 10%WP (15 g) 150 38 36
Actual efficacy of Pretilachlor 3100 g + Pendimethalin 200 g with Oxyfluorfen 4 g) 10000 79.52 75 81.24 80
Actual efficacy of Pretilachlor 3100 g + Pendimethalin 200 g with Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 4 g) 10000 83.93 80 84.61 80
Efficacy Observed - Efficacy Expected (with Oxyfluorfen) 75 – 79.52 = -4.52 80 – 81.24 = -1.24
Efficacy Observed -Efficacy Expected (with Pyrazosulfuron) 80 – 83.93 = -3.93 80 – 84.61 = -4.61

It is clear from the above data of field trials in Table 12, that the composition as per the present application provides better technical effect in controlling weeds than the comparative compositions having amounts of ingredients outside the scope of the invention.

Field trial on target weed Cyperus rotundus and Cyperus diformis with comparative compositions

Field trials were carried out to test the synergy of the combination Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Oxyfluorfen as well as Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Pyrazosulfuron ethyl. The field trials were carried out at various locations in Thanjavur (TN). The percentage efficacy was calculated after 30 days of application. The target weed was CR= Cyperus rotundus & CD= Cyperus diformis. The results are recorded in the Table 13.

Table 13

Dose % Weed Control
CR weed control in Rice at 30 DAA CD weed control in Rice at 30 DAA
Active Dose rate (g or ml/ha) Expected Actual Expected Actual
Untreated Control 0 0 0 0 0
Pretilachlor 50%EC (750 g) 1250 35 64
Pendimethalin 30%EC (990 g) 3300 18 25
Oxyfluorfen 23.5% EC (240 g) 1000 13 24
Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 10%WP (15 g) 150 20 32
Actual efficacy of Pretilachlor 3100 g + Pendimethalin 200 g with Oxyfluorfen 4 g) 10000 53.63 50 79.48 75
Actual efficacy of Pretilachlor 3100 g + Pendimethalin 200 g with Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 4 g) 10000 57.36 55 81.64 80
Efficacy Observed - Efficacy Expected (with Oxyfluorfen) 50 – 53.63 = -3.63 75 – 79.48 = -4.48
Efficacy Observed -Efficacy Expected (with Pyrazosulfuron) 55 – 57.36 = -2.36 80 – 81.64 = -1.64

It is clear from the above data of field trials in Table 13, that the composition as per the present application provides better technical effect in controlling weeds than the comparative compositions having amounts of ingredients outside the scope of the invention.

Stability Data for the compositions as per present invention

I] Suspension Concentrate (SC) (Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Oxyfluorfen 192 gm.L-1


Table 14

Sr. No. Test Specifications Unit Method 0 Day 7 Day @ 54 ? 14 Day @ 54 ?
1 Appearance Liquid Visual Blackish Yellow Blackish Yellow Blackish Yellow
2 Pretilachlor (A.I) 5.4 – 6.6 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 5.98 5.96 5.91
Pendimethalin (A.I) 8.1 – 9.9 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 8.99 8.95 8.94
Oxyfluorfen (A.I) 0.75 – 1.25 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 0.99 0.985 0.983
3 pH 4.0 – 8.0 CIPAC MT 75.3 6.6 6.6 6.6
4 Pourability (residue) 5.0 %, Max. CIPAC MT 148.1 4.3 4.1 4.0
5 Spontaneity of dispersion 60.0 %, Min. CIPAC MT 160 87.4 89.0 90.2
6 Wet Sieve (passing 75µ) 98.0 %, Min. CIPAC MT 185 99.2 98.7 98.5
7 Suspensibility
(active basis) Pretilachlor 60.0 %, Min. CIPAC MT 184 85.8
85.5
85.0
Pendimethalin 86.8
86.0 85.0
Oxyfluorfen 87.3 85.7 88.6
8 Persistent foam (after 1 Min.) 60.0 mL, Max. CIPAC MT 47.3 20 18 21
9 Particle size < 10.0 µ CIPAC MT 187 5 5 6
10 Cold stability (0 ± 2.0 °C, 7 day, Separation) 0.2 %, Max. CIPAC MT 172.1 Nil Nil Nil
11 A.I Degradation
Pretilachlor (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.33 1.17
Pendimethalin (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.44 0.55
Oxyfluorfen (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.50 0.70

It can be seen that the Suspension Concentrate as per the present invention exhibits all the desired properties, and shows minimal/acceptable degradation indicating the stability of the composition.

II] Stability Data for Water Dispersible Granules (WDG) of Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Oxyfluorfen 160 gm.kg-1

Table 15

Sr. No. Test Specifications Unit Method 0 Day 7 Day @ 54 ? 14 Day @ 54 ?
1 Appearance Free flowing granule Visual Blackish Yellow Blackish Yellow Blackish Yellow
2 Pretilachlor (A.I) 5.4 – 6.6 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 5.98 5.96 5.91
Pendimethalin (A.I) 8.1 – 9.9 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 8.99 8.95 8.94
Oxyfluorfen (A.I) 0.75 – 1.25 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 0.99 0.985 0.983
3 Moisture 4.0 %, w/w. Max. CIPAC MT 30.5 2.6 2.3 2.0
4 pH 4.0 – 8.0 CIPAC MT 75.3 6.7
6.75
6.8

5 Wettability 120 Sec. CIPAC MT 53.3 12 20 31
6 Wet Sieve (passing 75µ) 98.0 %, Min. CIPAC MT 185 99.1 98.9 98.9
7 Suspensibility
(active basis) Pretilachlor 60.0 %, Min. CIPAC MT 184 88.3 86.3 84.4
Pendimethalin 87.1 86.9 83.7
Oxyfluorfen 90.4 85.2 84.4
8 Persistent foam (after 1 Min.) 60.0 mL, Max. CIPAC MT 47.3 25 30 30
9 Dustiness (Gravimetric) 30.0 mg, Max. CIPAC MT 171.1 10 10 10
10 Flowability (passing 5 mm) after 20 drops 98.0 %, Min. CIPAC MT 172.1 99.3 99.0 98.1
11 Attrition resistance 98.0 %, Min. CIPAC MT 178.2 99.7 98.4 98.3
12 A.I Degradation
Pretilachlor (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.33 1.34
Pendimethalin (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.55 0.66
Oxyfluorfen (A.I) %, w/w. - 1.02 1.02

It can be seen that the Water Dispersible Granules as per the present invention exhibits all the desired properties, and shows minimal/acceptable degradation indicating the stability of the composition.

III] Stability Data for Granules of Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Oxyfluorfen, 160 gm.kg-1

Table 16

Sr. No. Test Specifications Unit Method 0 Day 7 Day @ 54 ? 14 Day @ 54 ?
1 Appearance Free flowing granule Visual Light yellow –yellow brown Light yellow –yellow brown Light yellow –yellow brown
2 Pretilachlor (A.I) 5.4 – 6.6 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 6.13 6.02 5.92
Pendimethalin (A.I) 8.1 – 9.9 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 9.09 8.96 8.82
Oxyfluorfen (A.I) 0.75 – 1.25 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 1.06 0.94 0. 84
3 Moisture 8.0 %, w/w, Max. CIPAC MT 30.5 6.3 5.1 4.5
4 pH 4.0 – 8.0 CIPAC MT 75.3 7.2 6.93 6.81
5 Dustiness (Gravimetric) 30.0 mg, Max. CIPAC MT 171.1 12 15 16
6 A.I Degradation
Pretilachlor (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.11 0.21
Pendimethalin (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.13 0.27
Pyrazosulfuron ethyl (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.12 0.22

It can be seen that the Granules as per the present invention exhibits all the desired properties and shows minimal/acceptable degradation indicating the stability of the composition.

IV] Stability Data for Suspension Concentrate (SC) of Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 192 gm.L-1

Table 17

Sr. No. Test Specifications Unit Method 0 Day 7 Day @ 54 ? 14 Day @ 54 ?
1 Appearance suspension liquid Visual Light yellow –yellow brown Light yellow –yellow brown Light yellow –yellow brown
2 Pretilachlor (A.I) 5.4 – 6.6 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 5.98 5.96 5.91
Pendimethalin (A.I) 8.1 – 9.9 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 8.99 8.95 8.94
Pyrazosulfuron ethyl (A.I) 0.75 – 1.25 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 0.99 0.985 0.983
3 pH 4.0 – 8.0 CIPAC MT 75.3 6.60 6.66 6.78
4 Pourability (residue) 5.0 %, Max CIPAC MT 148.1 4.3 4.1 4.0
5 Spontaneity of dispersion 60.0 %, Min. CIPAC MT 160 87.4 89.2 90.2
6 Wet sieve (passing 75 µ) 98.0 %, Min. CIPAC MT 185 99.2 98.7 98.5
7 Suspensibility
(active basis) Pretilachlor 60.0 %, Min. CIPAC MT 184 87.4 88.8 85.2
Pendimethalin 88.5 87.1 85.8
Oxyfluorfen 87.3 85.7 88.6
8 Persistent foam (after 1 Min.) 60.0 mL, Max. CIPAC MT 47.3 20 18 21
9 Particle Size < 10.0 mL, Max. CIPAC MT 187 5 5 6
10 Cold stability (0 ± 2.0 °C, 7 day, Separation) 0.2 %, Max. CIPAC MT 172.1 Nil Nil Nil
11 A.I Degradation
Pretilachlor (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.02 0.07
Pendimethalin (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.04 0.05
Pyrazosulfuron ethyl (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.005 0.007

It can be seen that the Suspension Concentrate as per the present invention exhibits all the desired properties, and shows minimal/acceptable degradation indicating the stability of the composition.

V] Stability Data for Granules (GR) Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Pyrazosulfuron ethyl, 160 gm.kg-1

Table 18

Sr. No. Test Specifications Unit Method 0 Day 7 Day @ 54 ? 14 Day @ 54 ?
1 Appearance Free flowing granule Visual Light yellow –yellow brown Light yellow –yellow brown Light yellow –yellow brown
2 Pretilachlor (A.I) 5.4 – 6.6 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 6.10 5.98 5.88
Pendimethalin (A.I) 8.1 – 9.9 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 9.06 8.95 8.84
Pyrazosulfuron ethyl (A.I) 0.75 – 1.25 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 1.02 0.91 0. 83
3 Moisture 8.0 %, w/w, Max. CIPAC MT 30.5 6.1 5.6 4.2
4 pH 4.0 – 8.0 CIPAC MT 75.3 7.1 6.92 6.88
5 Dustiness (Gravimetric) 30.0 mg, Max. CIPAC MT 171.1 10 12 16
6 A.I Degradation
Pretilachlor (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.12 0.22
Pendimethalin (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.11 0.22
Pyrazosulfuron ethyl (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.11 0.19

It can be seen that the Granules as per the present invention exhibits all the desired properties, and shows minimal/acceptable degradation indicating the stability of the composition.

VI] Stability Data for Water Dispersible Granules (WDG) of Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Pyrazosulfuron ethyl, 160 gm.kg-1

Table 19

Sr. No. Test Specifications Unit Method 0 Day 7 Day @ 54 ? 14 Day @ 54 ?
1 Appearance Free flowing granule Visual Light yellow –yellow brown Light yellow –yellow brown Light yellow –yellow brown
2 Pretilachlor (A.I) 5.4 – 6.6 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 5.96 5.93 5.88
Pendimethalin (A.I) 8.1 – 9.9 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 8.98 8.93 8.92
Pyrazosulfuron ethyl (A.I) 0.75 – 1.25 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 0.98 0.92 0.86
3 Moisture 2.0 %, w/w. Max. CIPAC MT 30.5 1.6 1.3 1.0
4 pH 4.0 – 8.0 CIPAC MT 75.3 6.8
6.87
6.9

5 Wettability 120 Sec. CIPAC MT 53.3 12 20 31
6 Wet Sieve (passing 75µ) 98.0 %, Min. CIPAC MT 185 99.1 98.9 98.9
7 Dispensability (after 1 min.) 60.0 %, Min. CIPAC MT 174 86.3 87.2 88.8
8 Suspensibility
(active basis) Pretilachlor 60.0 %, Min. CIPAC MT 184 88.3 86.3 84.4
Pendimethalin 87.1 86.9 83.7
(Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 90.4 85.2 84.4
9 Persistent foam (after 1 Min.) 60.0 mL, Max. CIPAC MT 47.3 25 30 30
10 Dustiness (Gravimetric) 30.0 mg, Max. CIPAC MT 171.1 10 10 10
11 A.I Degradation
Pretilachlor (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.03 0.08
Pendimethalin (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.05 0.06
Pyrazosulfuron ethyl (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.06 0.12

It can be seen that the Water Dispersible Granules as per the present invention exhibits all the desired properties, and shows minimal/acceptable degradation indicating the stability of the composition.

VII] Stability Data for Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC) of Pretilachlor + Pendimethalin + Oxyfluorfen 48 gm.kg-1

Table 20

Sr. No. Test Specifications Unit Method 0 Day 7 Day @ 54 ? 14 Day @ 54 ?
1 Appearance Liquid Visual Light yellow –yellow brown Light yellow –yellow brown Light yellow –yellow brown
2 Pretilachlor (A.I) 17.1 – 18.9 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 18.15 18.09 17.90
Pendimethalin (A.I) 25.65 – 28.35 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 27.12 27.07 26.95
Oxyfluorfen (A.I) 2.85 – 3.3 %, w/w. HPLC/GC 3.14 3.05 2.99
3 pH of 1% aq. Solution 5.0 – 8.0 CIPAC MT 75.3 6.9
6.85
6.80

4 Flash Point > 24.5 ? 13.2 IS 6940: 1982 …..
…..
…..

5 Acidity 1.0 %, w/w, Max. 13.5 IS 6940: 1982 0.067 0.088 0.12
6 Emulsion stability (Water D, 30 ± 2 °C) after 2 h, 24.5 h if 2 h in doubt Cream: …2ml….
Sediment: 2ml……. mL, Max. CIPAC MT 36.3 Cream: …Nil….
Sediment: 1ml
98.9
98.9
Emulsion stability (Water A, 30 ± 2 °C) after 2 h, 24.5 h if 2 h in doubt Cream: …2ml….
Sediment: 2ml……. mL, Max. CIPAC MT 36.3 Cream: …Nil….
Sediment: 1ml
98.9
98.9
7 Persistent foam (after 1 Min.) 30.0 mL, Max. CIPAC MT 47.3 10 8 8
10 Cold Test No turbidity or layer separation ---- 13.1 IS 6940: 1982 Nil Nil Nil
11 A.I Degradation
Pretilachlor (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.06 0.25
Pendimethalin (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.05 0.17
Oxyfluorfen (A.I) %, w/w. - 0.09 0.15

It can be seen that the Emulsifiable Concentrate as per the present invention exhibits all the desired properties, and shows minimal/acceptable degradation indicating the stability of the composition.

Effect of composition in presence of mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Ascophyllum nodosum over untreated control on productive efficiency on various growth and yield parameters of Rice.

Table 21
Active Tiller numbers per sq.m at flowering Leaf Area Index at Flowering Biomass Production at flowering (g/sq.m) Grain yield (kg/ha) Filled Grains per Panicle Chlorophyll at flowering Spikelet number per panicle 1000 grain weight (g)
Direct seeding+ Hand Weeding 422b 5.24b 1204b 6742b 140b 18.90b 159b 26.28b
Transplanting+
(Pretilachlor 600 g + Pendimethalin 900 g + Oxyfluorfen 100 g) (Comparative Formulation) 403c
(-4.50) 5.03c
(-4.12) 1152c
(-4.32) 6455c
(-4.25) 131c
(6.43) 17.64c
(-6.68) 151c
(-5.03) 25.05c
(-4.66)
Transplanting
(Pretilachlor 600 g + Pendimethalin 900 g + Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 9 g) (Comparative Formulation) 402C
(-4.74) 5.02c
(-4.26) 1155c
(-4.07) 6457c
(-4.23) 132c
(5.71) 17.71c
(-6.31) 149c
(-6.29) 25.03c
(-4.76)
Transplanting+
(Pretilachlor 600 g + Pendimethalin 900 g + Oxyfluorfen 100 g + mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Phaeophyceae) 445a
(5.45) 5.56a
(6.04) 1249a
(3.74) 7131a
(5.77) 148a
(5.71) 19.99a
(5.76) 167a
(5.03) 27.60a
(5.04)
Transplanting
(Pretilachlor 600 g + Pendimethalin 900 g + Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 9 g with mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Phaeophyceae 442a
(4.74) 5.52a
(5.32) 1250a
(3.82) 7063a
(4.76) 150a
(7.14) 19.98a
(5.70) 168a
(5.66) 27.55a
(4.83)
Values are mean of 5 replications; Figures in bracket are per cent increase values; Mean following by same letter is not differing significantly (P=0.05)

The minus value in the table above indicates that in the absence of linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Ascophyllum nodosum, there is acceptable transplant shock. The lack of minus means the addition of linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Ascophyllum nodosum has helped in preventing transplant shock. When the superscript ‘b” changes to ‘c” further changes to “a” that shows significant difference.

It can be seen that the addition of mixture comprising linear copolymeric polysaccharides obtained from Phaeophyceae provides significantly enhanced crop production, specifically the Tiller numbers, Leaf Area Index, Biomass Production and Chlorophyll at flowering, Grain yield, Filled Grains per Panicle, Spikelet number per panicle, and 1000 grain weight.

The foregoing description of the invention has been set merely to illustrate the invention and is not intended to be limiting. Since modifications of the disclosed embodiments incorporating the spirit and substance of the invention may occur to a person skilled in the art, the invention should be construed to include everything within the scope of the disclosure.