Abstract:
L-(d)-lactic acid, the dextrorotatory isomer of lactic acid, is an effective plant growth regulant which exhibits classical growth regulant activity at very low concentrations and dosage rates. It can be employed to beneficially stimulate the growth of all plant varieties and is particularly useful for stimulating the growth of commercial crops. As is the case with other growth regulants, L-lactic acid can also be employed to inhibit the growth of plants when applied at sufficiently high concentrations. Thus, L-lactic acid can be employed to stimulate the growth of desired plants, to stimulate the fruit production of fruit-bearing plants, and to inhibit the growth of undesired vegetation. Novel compositions which comprise mixtures L-(d)-lactic acid and one or more preservatives which are sufficient to prevent the hydrolytic and/or bacterial decomposition of the active isomer are also disclosed.
Abstract:
Herbicidal compositions are provided which contain combinations of glyphosate (N-(phosphonomethytlglycine) and sulfuric acid, and/or combinations of glyphosate, sulfuric acid and a chalcogen-containing compound of the formula R, - CX- R 2 wherein X is selected from oxygen and sulfur, R, and R 2 are independently selected from hydrogen, monovalent organic radicals, NR 3 R 4 and NR 5 , at least one of R, and R 2 being NR 3 R 4 or NR 5 , R 3 and R 4 are independently selected from hydrogen and monovalent organic radicals, and R s is a divalent organic radical. Such compositions contain reaction products of glyphosate and sulfuric acid, and/or of glyphosate, sulfuric acid and the chalcogen compound, and they may also contain excess glyphosate or sulfuric acid. They effect more rapid, more thorough, broader spectrum vegetation control, and are more stable chemically and less toxic than other glyphosate-containing herbicides.
Abstract:
Viscous fumigant compositions comprise carbon disulfide precursors, such as thiocarbonates, xanthates, and dithiocarbamates, that decompose upon application to release carbon disulfide. The compositions exhibit an improved active life when applied, for example, to soil.
Abstract:
Particles of thiocarbonate salts, thioesters or complexes are stabilized by being isolated from contact with water, CO₂ and oxygen and are encapsulated in a coating effective to prevent future contact of the particles with water, CO₂ and oxygen. The particles are preferably prepared in an environment from which water, CO₂ and oxygen are excluded. The coating may be a wax, a water-free oil or grease, sulfur or a natural or synthetic polymerizable resin. Various preparative and encapsulating techniques are disclosed.
Abstract:
Aqueous thiocarbonate solutions are stabilized by the addition of base, sulfide and/or polysulfide and the stability and safety of the more concentrated solutions containing 1 weight percent or more equivalent CS₂ as a thiocarbonate are achieved as reflected by significant reduction of CS₂ partial pressure in such solutions. Such stabilized thiocarbonate solutions are useful for the control of pests in, e.g. soil, and for inhibiting nitrification.