USE OF BENZYL ALCOHOL AS A HERBICIDE

Abstract

The invention relates to the use of benzyl alcohol as a systemic herbicide. The invention also relates to a method for controlling weeds or undesired plants, which includes applying a composition comprising the benzyl alcohol herbicide to harmful or undesired plants, or to parts of these harmful or undesired plants, or else to the fields where these weeds or undesired plants are growing.

Claims

1. Use of benzyl alcohol as a systemic herbicide.

2. Use according to claim 1, in which benzyl alcohol is the only active substance.

3. Use according to claim 1, in which benzyl alcohol is used in combination with at least one co-herbicide.

4. Use according to claim 3, in which said co-herbicide is selected from the molecular synthesis inhibitors, the cellulose synthesis inhibitors, the shikimic acid pathway inhibitors, the auxine synthesis inhibitors, the cellular division inhibitors, the acetolactate synthase (ALS) inhibitors, the 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (4-HPPD) inhibitors, the phytoene desaturase (PDS) inhibitors, the 1-deoxy-D-xylulose-5-phosphate synthase (DOXP) inhibitors, the acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase (ACCase) inhibitors or the photosystem II (PS II) inhibitors.

5. Use according to claim 3, in which said co-herbicide is a compound without herbicide activity which makes it possible to increase and/or to speed up the herbicide activity of benzyl alcohol.

6. Use according to any one of claims 3 to 5, in which the weight ratio between the herbicide benzyl alcohol and the co-herbicide is comprised between 150:1 and 1:150, preferably between 120:1 and 1:120, in particular between 100:1 and 1:100 or between 50:1 and 1:50, and in particular between 20:1 and 10:1, in particular between 20:1 and 5:1.

7. Use according to any one of claims 1 to 6, for controlling noxious or undesirable plants.

8. Use according to any one of claims 1 to 7, in which the herbicide activity is non-selective.

9. Use according to any one of claims 1 to 8, in which the herbicide activity is carried out through penetration via the above-ground and/or underground parts of the plant.

10. Use according to any one of claims 1 to 8, in which the herbicide activity is preventative.

11. Use according to any one of claims 7 to 10, in which the noxious or undesirable plants are selected from all of the plants of the green lineage or Archaeplastida, in particular monocotyledon plants, dicotyledon plants and pteridophytes.

12. Use according to any one of claims 1 to 11, in which benzyl alcohol is used, alone or in combination with at least one co-herbicide, at a rate of 5 L/hectare to 800 L/hectare, preferably 50 L/hectare to 500 L/hectare, in particular 50 L/hectare to 300 L/hectare, for example 100 to 200 L/hectare.

13. Use according to any one of claims 1 to 11, in which benzyl alcohol is used, alone or in combination with at least one co-herbicide, at a rate of 5 L/hectare to 100 L/hectare, for example 10 L/hectare to 80 L/hectare, in particular 15 L/hectare to 60 L/hectare.

14. Use according to any one of claims 1 to 13, which is carried out post-emergence, on the plantlet (juvenile stage before flowering), the flowering plant (before, during or after pollination), the plant after fertilization, the plant during fructification, the fruit, the flowers, the leaves, the stems, the roots or in the soil, and/or the culture medium, before or after seeding or also intercrop or inter-row.

15. Use according to any one of claims 1 to 14 in which the herbicide benzyl alcohol is applied by spraying, sprinkling, or dispersion of powders and/or pellets.

16. Use according to any one of claims 1 to 15, in which benzyl alcohol is formulated, alone or in combination with at least one co-herbicide, in a composition optionally comprising at least one phytopharmaceutically acceptable additive or excipient.

17. Use according to any one of claims 1 to 16 in the form of an aqueous solution or a concentrated solution or suspension, an oily dispersion or in the form of microcapsules, powder or pellets.

18. Use according to claim 16 or 17, in which said additive or excipient is selected from surfactants, antifoaming agents, preservatives, antimicrobial agents, anti-freezing agents, thickening agents, dyes, agents improving solubility and agents facilitating penetration and/or spread.

19. Use according to claim 18, in which the weight ratio between the total quantity of herbicide and surfactant can be comprised between 0.5:100 and 100:1, in particular between 0.5:50 and 50:1, more particularly between 0.5:20 and 20:1, in particular between 1:20 and 10:1, in particular between 1:10 and 5:0.5.

20. Use according to any one of claims 3, 4 or 6 to 19, in which said co-herbicide is selected from glyphosate or one of its ester salts or its derivatives; benzoic acid; pelargonic acid; dicamba and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid.

21. Use according to any one of claim 3 or 5 to 19, in which said co-herbicide is selected from sodium benzoate, salicylic acid, lysozyme, phenethyl alcohol and EDTA.

22. Use of benzyl alcohol as a herbicide, in which the herbicide activity is preventative and prevents plants originating from seeds from germinating or from sprouting again.

23. Use according to claim 22, said use being carried out pre-emergence, on the seed or in the soil, before or after seeding or also intercrop or inter-row.

24. Use according to claim 22, in which the herbicide activity is preventative and prevents the germination of noxious or undesirable plant seeds or their pre-emergence, by treating the surface of a previously deeply seeded cultivated area.

25. Use according to any one of claims 22 to 24, in which benzyl alcohol is the only active substance.

26. Use according to any one of claims 22 to 24, in which benzyl alcohol is used in combination with at least one co-herbicide.

27. Use according to claim 26, in which said co-herbicide is selected from at least one herbicide compound and at least one compound not having a herbicide activity which makes it possible to increase and/or speed up the herbicide activity of the benzyl alcohol.

28. Use according to any one of claim 26 or 27, in which the weight ratio between the total quantity of herbicide and surfactant can be comprised between 0.5:100 and 100:1, in particular between 0.5:50 and 50:1, more particularly between 0.5:20 and 20:1, in particular between 1:20 and 10:1, in particular between 1:10 and 5:0.5.

29. Method for controlling noxious or undesirable plants, which comprises the application of a composition comprising the herbicide benzyl alcohol on noxious or undesirable plants, or parts of these noxious or undesirable plants, or also on land where these noxious or undesirable plants sprout.

30. Method according to claim 29, in which the growth of the noxious or undesirable plants is reduced by at least 50%, in particular at least 60%, preferably at least 80%, and very particularly from 90 to 100%.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0127] FIG. 1: effect of benzyl alcohol in the case of foliar application to the pink petunia (Example 1).

[0128] FIG. 2: effect of benzyl alcohol outdoors (assay no. 3 in Example 5).

[0129] FIG. 3: effect of benzyl alcohol outdoors (assay no. 4 in Example 5).

EXAMPLES

[0130] The invention is illustrated in a non-limitative manner by the following examples. In all the examples where the benzyl alcohol was diluted, this dilution was carried out with water.

Example 1: Foliar Application

[0131] Assays were carried out on different plants by foliar application (spraying) to evaluate the herbicide function, its foliar application mode and its speed of action.

1) Protocol

[0132] The assays were carried out on potted plants. The application of the product is carried out with a trigger spray bottle which makes it possible to spray 1 g of product per spraying as microdroplets.

[0133] The plants were sprinkled with different quantities of water containing different quantities of pure benzyl alcohol (PanReac AppliChem—ITW Reagents). The untreated (control) plants are sprinkled with the same total quantity, but of water only.

[0134] The plants were observed at the following times: T0, 6 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 96 h and 120 h.

[0135] The collapsing of the plant, the colour intensity of the plant and the diameter of the plant were measured in the following manner: [0136] Collapsing of the plant: the collapsing was evaluated on a scale of 1 to 5. A score of 5 corresponds to the state of the plant habit at T0 and 1 corresponds to a total collapsing of the plant. [0137] Colour intensity: the colour of the plant (leaves and flowers) is evaluated on a scale of 1 to 5. A score of 5 corresponds to the colour intensity of the plant at T0 and a score of 1 corresponds to a total discoloration of the plant (white or brown according to the type of plant). [0138] Diameter of the plant: the diameter of the plant corresponds to the surface area occupied by the plant seen from above and is evaluated by a score of 1 to 5. A score of 5 corresponds to the diameter of the plant at T0 and a score of 1 corresponds to the size of the pot (or smaller than this).

2) Results

[0139] The results are given in Table 1 below, which includes, for each plant, the time in which it passes from a score of 5 (T0) to a score of 1.

[0140] The quantities of water and benzyl alcohol are expressed in g and an equivalent quantity in L/Ha.

TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Total quantity of product: Water alone (control plant) Benzyl Colour or Water + alcohol Collapsing of intensity of Diameter of benzyl alcohol (treated treated plant treated plant treated plant Plant (treated plant) plant) (score and time) (score and time) (score and time) White 6 g 0.1 g 1 to 96 h 1 to 96 h 1 to 120 h petunia (300 L/Ha) (5 L/Ha) Pink 4 g 0.4 g 1 to 72 h 1 to 48 h 1 to 96 h petunia (200 L/ha) (20 L/Ha) Purple horned 12 g 1 g 1 to 48 h 1 to 24 h 1 to 48 h pansy (600 L/Ha) (50 L/Ha) Dahlia 20 g 2 g 1 to 48 h 1 to 24 h 1 to 72 h (1000 L/ha) (100 L/Ha) Sage 10 g 4 g 1 to 48 h 1 to 24 h 1 to 48 h (500 L/Ha) (200 L/Ha) Lobelia 6 g 6 g 1 to 24 h 1 to 24 h 1 to 24 h (300 L/ha) (300 L/Ha) Carnation 16 g 8 g 1 to 24 h 1 to 24 h 1 to 48 h (800 L/ha) (400 L/Ha) White horned 12 g 12 g 1 to 6 h 1 to 6 h 1 to 6 h pansy (600 L/Ha) (600 L/Ha) Ivy 20 g 16 g 1 to 96 h 1 to 48 h 1 to 96 h (1000 L/Ha) (800 L/Ha)

3) Conclusion

[0141] The results show that benzyl alcohol used in foliar application shows a good effectiveness regardless of the quantity of water used. On contact with benzyl alcohol and over a few hours, the plants collapse, the plant loses rigidity then falls down.

[0142] The speed of action is dose-dependent for a given variety. The higher the concentration of active material, the quicker the result.

Example 2: Systemic Application Though Contact with the Above-Ground Parts

[0143] Assays were carried out on different plants by treatment on a fraction of the above-ground parts.

1) Protocol

[0144] The assays were carried out on potted plants.

[0145] The systemic action was evaluated on several types of plants by treatment on a fraction of its above-ground parts.

[0146] The application of the product is carried out with a trigger spray bottle which makes it possible to spray 1 g of product per spraying, as microdroplets.

[0147] The treated plants are sprinkled on only one half, with different quantities of water comprising different quantities of pure benzyl alcohol (PanReac AppliChem—ITW Reagents). The untreated (control) plants are sprinkled with the same total quantity, but of water only.

[0148] The plants are observed at the following times: T0, 6 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 96 h, 120 h, 144 h, 168 h.

[0149] The collapsing of the plant, the colour intensity and the diameter of the plant were measured as indicated in Example 1. The systemic effectiveness time was also measured in the following manner: [0150] Systemic effectiveness time: 50% of the plant is initially treated with the product. The time necessary to see the first effects (systemically) appear on the part not treated (systemically) is determined.

2) Results

[0151] The results are given in Table 2 below, which includes, for each treated plant, the time in which it passes from a score of 5 (T0) to a score of 1.

[0152] The quantities of water and benzyl alcohol are expressed in g and an equivalent quantity in L/Ha.

[0153] For the treated plants, the results are indicated as follows: systemic effectiveness time (column A), collapsing (column B), colour intensity (column C), diameter (column D).

TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Total quantity of product: Water alone (control plant) Benzyl or Water + alcohol B C D benzyl alcohol (treated (score (score (score Plant (treated plant) plant) A and time) and time) and time) Horned pansy 12 g 0.1 g whole plant 1 to 1 to 1 to (600 L/Ha) (5 L/Ha) affected 168 h 144 h 168 h at 120 h Hypoestes 8 g 1 g whole plant 1 to 1 to 1 to (400 L/Ha) (50 L/Ha) affected 120 h 120 h 144 h at 96 h Osteospermum 2 g 2 g whole plant 1 to 1 to 1 to (100 L/Ha) (100 L/Ha) affected 144 h 120 h 144 h at 96 h Carnation 4 g 4 g whole plant 1 to 1 to 1 to (200 L/Ha) (200 L/Ha) affected 86 h 96 h 120 h at 72 h White petunia 16 g 10 g whole plant 1 to 1 to 1 to (800 L/Ha) (500 L/Ha) affected 48 h 48 h 48 h at 24 h Grass 20 g 16 g whole plant 1 to 1 to 1 to (1000 L/Ha) (800 L/Ha) affected 144 h 120 h 168 h at 96 h

3) Conclusion

[0154] Foliar application of benzyl alcohol on only a part of the plant shows a rapid effectiveness over the whole plant. The generalized impact on the plant within 3 to 5 days demonstrates a systemic effect. The benzyl alcohol circulates in the conductive tissues and affects all of the plant.

Example 3: Systemic Action Through Contact with the Underground Parts

[0155] 1) Protocol

[0156] The assays were carried out on potted plants.

[0157] Pure benzyl alcohol was used (PanReac AppliChem—ITW Reagents).

[0158] Two potted plants (Horned pansy) were each placed in a saucer containing respectively 40 g pure benzyl alcohol or 40 g water (control). By capillary action, the liquids contained in the saucer are absorbed by the earth and come into contact with the roots.

[0159] The plants are observed at 0, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 96 h, 120 h, 144 h and 168 h.

[0160] The systemic effectiveness time, the collapsing of the plant, the colour intensity and the diameter of the plant were measured as indicated in Examples 1 and 2.

2) Results

[0161] For the plant the saucer of which contains 40 g pure benzyl alcohol, the following results are observed: [0162] Systemic effectiveness time: the whole plant is affected in 48 h. [0163] Collapsing: the plant passes from a score of 5 to a score of 1 in 72 h. [0164] Colour intensity: the plant passes from a score of 5 to a score of 1 in 48 h. [0165] Diameter of the plant: the plant passes from a score of 5 to a score of 1 in 96 h.

[0166] These results corroborate the results obtained by sprinkling when half of the plant is treated and confirms the systemic action of the herbicide benzyl alcohol. In fact, it is the take up of the active product by the root system and its distribution to all of the plant which make it possible to produce an effect on the foliar system.

Example 4: Non-Selective Activity

4.1) Herbaceous Plants

[0167] The non-selective character of benzyl alcohol was studied on 3 common varieties of herbaceous plants, two dicotyledons (dandelions and clover) and a monocotyledon (grass).

[0168] The dandelion is a herbaceous plant composed of a rosette of leaves. Its seeds, which are blown by the wind, disperse this plant all over, making it a weed that is particularly present in gardens.

[0169] Clover is a particularly robust species. This plant develops creeping rhizomes allowing it to spread quite quickly and to be able to survive after a loss of its leaves, making this plant a good model for testing the systemic effect of a herbicide.

[0170] The grass of the ryegrass type makes it possible to confirm that the spectrum of action of benzyl alcohol is broad.

a) Protocol

[0171] The assays were carried out on potted plants. The application of the product is carried out with a trigger spray bottle which makes it possible to spray 1 g of product per spraying, as microdroplets.

[0172] The treated plants are sprinkled with different quantities of water comprising different quantities of pure benzyl alcohol (PanReac AppliChem—ITW Reagents). The untreated (control) plants are sprinkled with the same total quantity of water only.

[0173] The plants are observed at the following times: T0, 6 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 96 h. The collapsing of the plant, the colour intensity and the diameter of the plant were measured as indicated in Example 1.

b) Results

[0174] The results are given in Table 3 below, which includes, for each plant, the time in which it passes from a score of 5 (T0) to a score of 1.

[0175] The quantities of water and benzyl alcohol are expressed in g and an equivalent quantity in L/Ha.

TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 Total quantity of product: Water alone (control plant) Benzyl or Water + alcohol Colour benzyl alcohol (treated Collapsing intensity Diameter Plant (treated plant) plant) (score and time) (score and time) (score and time) Dandelion 8 g 4 g 1 to 48 h 1 to 24 h 1 to 48 h (400 L/Ha) (200 L/Ha) Clover 8 g 4 g 1 to 48 h 1 to 24 h 1 to 48 h (400 L/Ha) (200 L/Ha) Grass 8 g 4 g 1 to 48 h 1 to 24 h 1 to 48 h (400 L/Ha) (200 L/Ha)

4.2) Brambles

[0176] Brambles are very invasive plants in ditches and on railway embankments.

[0177] They are perennial plants, which also have powerful roots and thorns, which make them difficult to pull up.

a) Protocol

[0178] The assays were carried out on potted plants.

[0179] The application of the product is carried out with a trigger spray bottle which makes it possible to spray 1 g of product per spraying, as microdroplets. The treated plants are sprinkled with different quantities of water comprising different quantities of pure benzyl alcohol (PanReac AppliChem—ITW Reagents). The untreated (control) plants are sprinkled with the same total quantity of water only.

[0180] The brambles are sprinkled with: [0181] 16 g of product (equivalent to 800 L/Ha) including 12 g pure benzyl alcohol for the treated plant (equivalent to 600 L/Ha pure benzyl alcohol), and [0182] 16 g water for the control plants.

[0183] The plants are observed at the following times: T0, 6 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 96 h, 120 h and 144 h. The collapsing of the plant, the colour intensity and the diameter of the plant were measured as indicated in Example 1.

b) Results

[0184] Collapsing: The plant passes from a score of 5 to a score of 1 in 144 h. [0185] Colour intensity: The plant passes from a score of 5 to a score of 1 in 96 h.

[0186] The control plants do not show any difference before and after treatment.

4.3) Conclusion

[0187] The non-selective herbicide activity of benzyl alcohol allows its use in cultivated or uncultivated areas (agricultural, non-agricultural, railways, etc.) which have very heterogeneous plant varieties.

Example 5: Outdoor Assays with Benzyl Alcohol Used Alone

1) Assay No. 1:

1.1) Protocol

[0188] The outdoor assays were carried out on squares of grass having a surface area of 1 m.sup.2. The application of the product is carried out with a compression sprayer which makes it possible to spray 20 to 100 g liquid over a surface area of 1 m.sup.2 (equivalent to 200-1000 L/Ha).

[0189] The treated squares of grass are sprayed with a total quantity of water and pure benzyl alcohol (PanReac AppliChem—ITW Reagents) of 20 g (equivalent 200 l/Ha) including 0.5 g benzyl alcohol (equivalent to 5 L/Ha pure benzyl alcohol).

[0190] The control squares of grass receive a total quantity of 20 g water alone.

[0191] The squares of grass are observed at the following times T0, 6 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 96 h, 120 h, 144 h, 168 h.

[0192] The following measurements and evaluations were carried out: [0193] Percentage of the surface area affected: Following the assays in pots, it was noted that the change in colour correlated with the collapsing and the death of the plants. The time necessary to impact the colour of the grass as well as its surface area was evaluated. [0194] Measurement of the collapsing of the grass: the distance between the ground and the highest part of 10 blades of grass selected at random in a square is measured. The average of these 10 blades is calculated and, after treatment, when this average distance is reduced by 30%, the collapsing time is determined.

1.2) Results

[0195] Percentage of the surface area affected: A maximum percentage of the surface area affected of 45% is observed 96 h after treatment. [0196] Collapsing of the grass: 72 h after treatment, the grass has a

2) Assay No. 2

2.1) Protocol

[0197] Assay no. 2 was carried out under the same conditions as assay no. 1, except that the treated squares of grass are sprayed with a total quantity of water and benzyl alcohol of 60 g (equivalent 600 L/Ha) including 5 g pure benzyl alcohol (equivalent to 50 L/Ha pure benzyl alcohol).

[0198] The control squares of grass receive a total quantity of 60 g water alone.

[0199] The percentage of the surface area affected and the collapsing of the grass were evaluated as indicated above.

2.2) Results

[0200] Percentage of the surface area affected: A maximum percentage of the surface area affected of 60% is observed 72 h after treatment. [0201] Collapsing of the grass: 48 h after treatment, the grass has an average collapsing of 30%.

3) Assay No. 3

3.1) Protocol

[0202] Assay no. 3 was carried out under the same conditions as assay no. 1, except that the treated squares of grass are sprayed with a total quantity of 20 g pure benzyl alcohol (equivalent to 200 L/Ha pure benzyl alcohol).

[0203] The control squares of grass receive a total quantity of 20 g water alone.

[0204] The percentage of the surface area affected and the collapsing of the grass were evaluated as indicated above.

3.2) Results

[0205] Percentage of the surface area affected: A maximum percentage of the surface area affected of 80% is observed 48 h after treatment. [0206] Collapsing of the grass: 48 h after treatment, the grass has an average collapsing of 30%.

4) Assay No. 4

4.1) Protocol

[0207] Assay no. 4 was carried out under the same conditions as assay no. 1, except that the treated squares of grass are sprayed with a total quantity of water and benzyl alcohol of 60 g (equivalent 600 L/Ha) including 40 g pure benzyl alcohol (equivalent to 400 L/Ha pure benzyl alcohol).

[0208] The control squares of grass receive a total quantity of 60 g water alone.

[0209] The percentage of the surface area affected and the collapsing of the grass were evaluated as indicated above.

4.2) Results

[0210] Percentage of the surface area affected: A maximum percentage of the surface area affected of 100% is observed 24 h after treatment. [0211] Collapsing of the grass: 24 h after treatment, the grass has an average collapsing of 30%. [0212] 5) Assay No. 5

5.1) Protocol

[0213] Assay no. 5 was carried out under the same conditions as assay no. 1, except that the treated squares of grass are sprayed with a total quantity of water and benzyl alcohol of 100 g (equivalent 1000 L/Ha) including 60 g pure benzyl alcohol (equivalent to 600 L/Ha pure benzyl alcohol).

[0214] The control squares of grass receive a total quantity of 100 g water alone.

[0215] The percentage of the surface area affected and the collapsing of the grass were evaluated as indicated in Example 4.

5.2) Results

[0216] Percentage of the surface area affected: A maximum percentage of the surface area affected of 100% is observed 24 h after treatment. [0217] Collapsing of the grass: 6 h after treatment, the grass has an average collapsing of 30%.

6) Assay No. 6

6.1) Protocol

[0218] Assay no. 6 was carried out under the same conditions as assay no. 1, except that the treated squares of grass are sprayed with a total quantity of 80 g pure benzyl alcohol (equivalent to 800 L/Ha pure benzyl alcohol).

[0219] The control squares of grass receive a total quantity of 80 g water alone.

[0220] The percentage of the surface area affected and the collapsing of the grass were evaluated as indicated in Example 4.

6.2) Results

[0221] Percentage of the surface area affected: A maximum percentage of the surface area affected of 100% is observed 6 h after treatment. [0222] Collapsing of the grass: 6 h after treatment, the grass has an average collapsing of 30%.

Example 6: Outdoor Assays with Benzyl Alcohol Used in Combination

Assay No. 1: Benzyl Alcohol and Pelargonic Acid

1.1) Protocol

[0223] Outdoor assays were carried out on squares of grass having a surface area of 1 m.sup.2. Pure benzyl alcohol (PanReac AppliChem—ITW Reagents) and commercially available pelargonic acid were used, composed of 24.3% pelargonic acid (Path and patio weedkiller—BHS—Naturnet).

[0224] The application of the product is carried out with a compression sprayer which makes it possible to spray 20 to 100 g liquid over a surface area of 1 m.sup.2 (equivalent to 200-1000 L/Ha).

[0225] The treated squares of grass are sprayed with a total quantity of water, benzyl alcohol and pelargonic acid of 40 g (equivalent to 400 L/Ha) including 20 g benzyl alcohol (equivalent to 200 L/Ha pure benzyl alcohol) and 1 g pelargonic acid (equivalent to 2.43 L/Ha pure pelargonic acid).

[0226] The control squares of grass receive a total quantity of 40 g water alone.

[0227] The squares of grass are observed at the following times T0, 6 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 96 h, 120 h, 144 h, 168 h.

[0228] The percentage of the surface area affected and the collapsing of the grass were evaluated as indicated in Example 5.

1.2) Results

[0229] Percentage of the surface area affected: A maximum percentage of the surface area affected of 100% is observed 48 h after treatment. [0230] Collapsing of the grass: 24 h after treatment, the grass has an average collapsing of 30%.

[0231] The results show that the combination of benzyl alcohol with pelargonic acid, on the one hand, makes it possible to obtain a quicker effect (duration reduced by half) and, on the other hand, allows a more extensive effect due to the systemic effect of the benzyl alcohol, compared with pelargonic acid alone.

[0232] The combination of the two molecules make it possible in particular to: [0233] reduce the respective quantities of the two molecules; [0234] reduce the action time; [0235] reduce the product costs.

Assay No. 2: Benzyl Alcohol and White Vinegar

2.1) Protocol

[0236] Outdoor assays were carried out on squares of grass having a surface area of 1 m.sup.2. Pure benzyl alcohol (PanReac AppliChem—ITW Reagents) and commercially available white vinegar were used.

[0237] The assays and activity measurements are carried out as described in assay no. 1 above, except that the treated squares of grass are sprayed with a total quantity of water, benzyl alcohol and white vinegar of 40 g (equivalent to 400 L/Ha) including 20 g benzyl alcohol (equivalent to 200 L/Ha pure benzyl alcohol) and 1 g white vinegar (equivalent to 10 L/Ha vinegar).

[0238] The control squares of grass receive a total quantity of 40 g water alone.

2.2) Results

[0239] Percentage of the surface area affected: A maximum percentage of the surface area affected of 90% is observed 48 h after treatment. [0240] Collapsing of the grass: 48 h after treatment, the grass has an average collapsing of 30%.

[0241] The results show that the combination of benzyl alcohol with vinegar, on the one hand, makes it possible to obtain a quicker effect (duration reduced by half) and, on the other hand, allows a more extensive effect due to the systemic effect of the benzyl alcohol, compared with the vinegar alone.

[0242] The combination of the two molecules makes it possible in particular to: [0243] reduce the respective quantities of the two molecules; [0244] reduce the action time; [0245] reduce the product costs.

Assay No. 3: Benzyl Alcohol and Salt (Sodium Chloride)

3.1) Protocol

[0246] Outdoor assays were carried out on squares of grass having a surface area of 1 m.sup.2. 100% benzyl alcohol (PanReac AppliChem—ITW Reagents) and commercially available salt were used.

[0247] The assays and activity measurements are carried out as described in assay no. 1 above, except that the treated squares of grass are sprayed with a total quantity of water, benzyl alcohol and white vinegar of 40 g (equivalent to 400 L/Ha) including 20 g pure benzyl alcohol (equivalent to 200 L/Ha pure benzyl alcohol) and 1 g salt (equivalent to 10 g/Ha salt).

[0248] The control squares of grass receive a total quantity of 40 g water alone.

3.2) Results

[0249] Percentage of the surface area affected: A maximum percentage of the surface area affected of 87% is observed 48 h after treatment. [0250] Collapsing of the grass: 48 h after treatment, the grass has an average collapsing of 30%.

Example 7: Preventative Activity (Anti-Germination)

1) Protocol

[0251] The assays were carried out on seeds sown on a Petri dish with respectively a control mode, an assay with benzyl alcohol and an assay with glyphosate herbicide (Gallup® super 360, Barclay).

[0252] The application of the product is carried out with a trigger spray bottle which makes it possible to spray 0.35 g of product per spraying, as microdroplets.

[0253] Seeds are placed on an agar gel in Petri dishes. 16 barley seeds, 24 rapeseed seeds, 18 wheat seeds, 10 maize seeds, 10 soybean seeds are positioned for each test.

[0254] The seeds are sprinkled either with 0.35 g water (equivalent 700 L/Ha) including 0.35 g pure benzyl alcohol (PanReac AppliChem—ITW Reagents) (equivalent 700 L/Ha pure benzyl alcohol), or with 0.35 g water for the control, or with 0.35 g glyphosate diluted at 0.5% for the glyphosate test.

[0255] The plants are observed at 0 and 11 days. The percentage of germination is the percentage of germinated seeds evaluated after 11 days.

2) Results

[0256] The percentage of germination at 11 days is reported in Table 4 below.

TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 Plant (seed) Benzyl alcohol Glyphosate Control Barley 0 100% 100% Rapeseed 0 100% 100% Wheat 0 100% 100% Dandelion 0  83%  82% Maize 0 100% 100% Soybean 0 100% 100%

[0257] The results show that, 11 days after seeding, regardless of the plant family of the treated seed, only the seeds treated with benzyl alcohol did not germinate, whereas the untreated seeds or seeds treated with glyphosate did germinate.

[0258] The seeds tested belong to different families which belong to both the monocotyledon plants and to the dicotyledon plants.

[0259] The results show that benzyl alcohol blocks the germination of the seeds or kills them.

Example 8: Pre-Emergence Herbicide Activity

[0260] Pre-emergence herbicides are generally applied a short time after seeding, but before the emergence of the first plantlets of the cultivated plant. They are not mechanically incorporated in the soil. The mechanism of action is based on the fact that the weeds, including grass, originate in general from the upper layers of the soil (<50 mm). The cultivated plants are seeded at a greater depth. The herbicide applied to the upper layer of the soil must be washed by a light sprinkling.

[0261] The spatial separation of the herbicide effect confined to the upper layers of the soil from the germination of the crops in the lower layers increases the safety.

[0262] Application early in the crop cycle makes it possible to reduce competition in favour of the cultivated plant.

1) Protocol

[0263] The assays were carried out on potted plants.

[0264] Pure benzyl alcohol was used (PanReac AppliChem—ITW Reagents). The application of the product is carried out with a trigger spray bottle which makes it possible to spray 1 g of product per spraying as microdroplets.

[0265] Barley seeds (50 seeds per condition) are sown in potting soil at different depths (1, 2 and 3 cm). Then, 100% benzyl alcohol is sprayed on the earth (above the seeds) at different concentrations (10, 25, 50, 100, 200, 300 L/Ha).

[0266] The state of germination is observed at 0 and 11 days. The percentage of germination is the percentage of germinated seeds evaluated after 11 days.

[0267] The percentage of seeds germinated under each of the conditions is determined and if it is below 70%, pre-emergence use is not recommended.

2) Results

[0268] The results are given in Table 5 below.

[0269] The note “yes” indicates that pre-emergence use is prescribed. The note “no” indicates that pre-emergence use is not recommended.

TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 5 Quantity of benzyl alcohol Seeding Less than depth 50 L/Ha 50 L/Ha 100 L/Ha 1 cm yes yes no 2 cm yes yes yes 3 cm yes yes yes

[0270] The results show that pre-emergence use is possible with a concentration that can be adjusted depending on the seeding depth.

Example 9: Preventative Herbicide Activity by Sprinkling of the Soil

[0271] Use by sprinkling makes it possible to meet the conditions imposed by the ECOPHYTO plan which consists of reducing the quantities of phytosanitary products.

[0272] It also has the advantage of being used preventatively on areas known for the growth of certain adventive plants.

[0273] Areas identified as each year showing the presence of couch grass, grass, bindweeds and thistles were treated preventatively. The area to be treated was divided into 5 parts in order to test different dosages of active material (pure benzyl alcohol), namely 50, 70, 110, 120 and 130 L/Ha.

[0274] The results are reported in Table 6 below, in which the note “yes” indicates the areas where the plants have sprouted despite the preventative treatment, and the note “no” indicates the areas where the preventative treatment made it possible to prevent the sprouting of the identified plants.

TABLE-US-00006 TABLE 6 50 70 110 120 130 150 Plant L/ha L/Ha L/Ha L/Ha L/Ha L/Ha Couch grass yes yes yes yes no no Grass yes yes yes no no no Bindweed yes yes no no no no Thistle yes yes no no no no

[0275] Usual foliar application for this type of plant generally being 300 L/Ha, a reduction of the quantity of herbicide is observed by species, as indicated in Table 7 below

TABLE-US-00007 TABLE 7 Usual quantity Quantity of % reduction of herbicide benzyl alcohol compared with a Plant (foliar) (sprinkling) usual herbicide Couch grass 300 L/Ha 130 L/Ha 56.7% Grass 300 L/Ha 120 L/Ha .sup. 60% Bindweed 300 L/Ha 110 L/Ha 63.4% Thistle 300 L/Ha 110 L/Ha 63.4%

[0276] The results show that application by sprinkling makes it possible to divide the quantity of product used by 2 on average.

[0277] In addition, the waiting period before the next seeding will be reduced by an average of 30%.

Example 10: Intercrop Herbicide Activity

1) Protocol

[0278] Pure benzyl alcohol was used (PanReac AppliChem—ITW Reagents).

[0279] Barley and rapeseed seeds are sown in potting soil 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 10, 13, 15, 20 days after treatment of the potting soil with pure benzyl alcohol in different concentrations (10 L/Ha, 50 L/Ha, 100 L/Ha, 200 L/Ha, 300 L/Ha, 400 L/Ha, 500 L/Ha, 600 L/Ha). The seeding period is then determined when 70% of the seeds sown germinate.

[0280] The plants are observed at T0, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 96 h, 120 h, 144 h and 168 h.

2) Results

[0281] The results showing the seeding period depending on the dose used are reported in Table 8 below.

TABLE-US-00008 TABLE 8 Dose used Less than More than 100 L/Ha 100/LHa 200 L/Ha 300 L/Ha 300 L/Ha Days of 5 5 7 15 15 waiting before seeding

[0282] The results show that it is possible to adjust the seeding period depending on the dose of herbicide used.

Example 11: Inter-Row Cultivation Herbicide Activity

[0283] Certain crops, such as vines or market gardening, require inter-row treatment. The possible migrations of the active molecule above-ground or through the ground are liable to affect the adjacent crops were tested.

1) Protocol

[0284] Pure benzyl alcohol was used (PanReac AppliChem—ITW Reagents).

[0285] Two plants (Petunia) were planted with a spacing of 20 cm. Only one of the plants is treated, either in a foliar manner or by sprinkling in different concentrations (10 L/Ha, 20 L/Ha, 50 L/Ha, 100 L/Ha, 200 L/Ha, 300 L/Ha, 40 L/Ha, 500 L/Ha, 600 L/Ha). The plants are observed at 0, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 96 h, 120 h, 144 h and 168 h.

[0286] The use of herbicide will be possible when the untreated plant does not collapse.

2) Results

[0287] The results are reported in Table 9 below, in which the note “yes” indicates the dose and the mode of use when use in intercrop cultivation is prescribed, and the note “no” indicates that it is not.

TABLE-US-00009 TABLE 9 Quantity of product used Less than 50 L/Ha 50 L/Ha 100 L/Ha 200 L/Ha Inter-row Sprinkling yes yes yes no use Foliar no no no no

[0288] The results show that sprinkling makes it possible to adjust the quantity of product that can be used in inter-row cultivation.

Example 12: Herbicide Activity in Synergy with Other Herbicides (Molecular Synthesis Inhibitors)

[0289] Protocol

[0290] Outdoor assays were carried out on squares of grass having a surface area of 1 m.sup.2. Pure benzyl alcohol (PanReac AppliChem—ITW Reagents) and co-herbicides were used in the concentrations indicated below.

[0291] The assays and activity measurements are carried out as described in assay no. 1 in Example 5, except that the treated squares of grass are sprayed with a total quantity of water, benzyl alcohol and co-herbicide of 40 g (equivalent to 400 L/Ha) including 20 g benzyl alcohol (equivalent to 200 L/Ha pure benzyl alcohol).

[0292] The control squares of grass receive a total quantity of 40 g water alone.

[0293] The synergy assays were carried out with the following herbicides: [0294] 1. diflufenicanil, a PDS inhibitor (Carat® from Bayer, 1 l/ha), [0295] 2. tembotrione, a 4-HPPD inhibitor (Auxo® from Bayer, 1.5 l/ha), [0296] 3. aclonifen, a DOXP synthesis inhibitor (Challenge®, 2.5 l/ha); [0297] 4. glyphosate, a shikimic acid pathway inhibitor (Gallup® Super 360, Barclay, 3 to 8 l/ha); [0298] 5. benzoic acid (Banvel 4S® from Syngenta, 0.6 l/ha) [0299] 6. cellular division inhibitors (Antilope® from Bayer, 0.6 l/ha and DualGold® from Syngenta, 1.5 to 2 l/ha); [0300] 7. sulfonylureas, an ALS inhibitor (Adret® from Bayer, 1 l/ha) [0301] 8. a lipid synthesis inhibitor (ACCase) (Tramat® from Bayer—1 l/ha) [0302] 9. phenmedipham, a photosynthesis PS II inhibitor (Betanal® Booster from Bayer, 1 l/ha).

[0303] All the assays were carried out on the basis of 50% of the recommended dose.

[0304] The results are reported in Table 10 below.

TABLE-US-00010 TABLE 10 Product tested 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 % — — —  40%  50%  50% — — — effectiveness in 1 day % — 20% 35%  60%  80%  60% 50% 30% 20% effectiveness in 2 days %  80% 50% 60% 100% 100% 100% 80% 50% 40% effectiveness in 3 days % 100% 100%  100%  100% 100% 100% 100%  80% 100%  effectiveness in 4 days

[0305] The results show that, when the molecular synthesis inhibitors tested are combined with benzyl alcohol, a good and early herbicide activity is obtained in a period of days, which is the case with benzyl alcohol, and not of weeks, as is the case when the herbicides tested are used alone.

Example 13: Systemic Action Though Contact with the Leaves

1) Protocol

[0306] Chenopodium album (CHEAL) seeds are sown in Petri dishes in vermiculite moistened with a 0.2% solution of KNOB. The dishes are incubated in a climatic chamber at 15° C./20° C. night/day and 14 h photoperiod up to the stage of emergence of the cotyledons. The plantlets are then transplanted, at a rate of 6 plants per pot and 5 pots in each of the groups (treated group and control group), in a mixture of agricultural earth:vermiculite (50:50).

[0307] The plantlets are cultivated under the same environmental conditions as previously up to the stage BBCH12-14.

1.1) Treatment

[0308] The plants are treated with benzyl alcohol at the stage BBCH12-14 with a dose of 20 L/ha benzyl alcohol with 660 g/I water, i.e. 13.2 kg benzyl alcohol/ha.

[0309] The product is applied in a volume corresponding to 300 L/ha using a spraying bench equipped with agricultural nozzles (Turbo Teejet TTII0015).

[0310] After treatment, the plants are returned to cultivation in a climatic chamber at 15° C./20° C. night/day and 14 h photoperiod.

[0311] A control group is not treated and only receives water.

1.2) Tagging Protocol

[0312] The following operations are carried out:

a) representative selection of at least 2 plantlets over 2 different pots;
b) recovery of root fragments;
c) transverse sections in the centre of an entirely developed leaf of each plantlet;
d) incubation of the root fragments and leaf sections with a fluorochrome revealing metabolic activity (green fluorescence).

2) Results

[0313] Electron microscopy observations were carried out by epifluorescence microscopy on the leaves and the roots of the treated plants and the control plants, 24 h and 7 days after treatment on the leaves.

[0314] In 24 h, certain treated plants show symptoms of drying ranging from a few spots to a total wilting of the leaf and other plants do not show any visual symptoms.

[0315] On the epifluorescence microscopy images, on the sections of leaf a large decrease in the green colour is observed, which shows a strong reduction of the metabolic activity of the leaves of the treated plants compared with the control plants, whether or not they have visible symptoms on the leaves. On the root fragments, a slight decrease in the metabolic activity of the roots of the treated plants is observed compared with those of the control plants, even though the treated plants show visible symptoms or not.

[0316] 7 days after treatment, some of the treated plants show symptoms of drying similar to those observed at 24 h and other plants do not show them.

[0317] Microscopic observations confirm the decrease in the metabolic activity of the roots of the treated plants compared with the control plants (reduction of the green colour). The reduction of the metabolic activity of the leaves of the treated plants increases over time, and this is the case whether or not the plants have visible symptoms.

[0318] The results observed on the epifluorescence microscopy images are reported in Tables 11 and 12 below, in which a mark of 0 to 5 is attributed depending on the intensity and the surface area of the fluorescence observed, where 0=no metabolic activity, and 5=complete metabolic activity.

[0319] Before uprooting and epifluorescence microscopy analysis, the treated plants were divided into 2 groups: [0320] Group 1: plants not showing or showing few symptoms of drying on the treated area (leaf) [0321] Group 2: plants having a dry leaf on the treated area (leaf)

[0322] The 2 groups are compared with the control group (untreated).

TABLE-US-00011 TABLE 11 Metabolic activity on the roots Control group Group 1 Group 2 24 h 5 2 2.5  7 days 5 1.5 2

[0323] The results show a reduction of the metabolic activity at the level of the roots in the treated plants, from 24 h after treatment.

TABLE-US-00012 TABLE 12 Metabolic activity on the leaves Control group Group 1 Group 2 24 h 5 1 1  7 days 5 0.5 0

[0324] The results show a strong reduction of the metabolic activity at the level of the leaves in the treated plants, from 24 h after treatment.

3) Conclusion

[0325] The results show that benzyl alcohol used as a herbicide at a rate of 20 L/Ha causes an overall decrease of the metabolic activity of the treated plants in 24 h, which is still visible 7 days after treatment.

[0326] The effect observed on the roots after treatment by spraying on the leaves shows that benzyl alcohol is systemic. In fact, benzyl alcohol diffuses to all of the plant through its distribution organs with an effect on organs remote from the contact area of the product, sometimes even before the effects are visible on the contact area.

Example 14: Early Post-Emergence Herbicide Activity, with Benzyl Alcohol Used Alone or in Combination

Protocol

[0327] The soil is composed of 50% agricultural soil and 50% vermiculite.

[0328] Mustard seeds are sown in a Petri dish up to the stage of emergence of the radicle. The pre-germinated seeds are placed 1 cm deep in 8 cm×8 cm pots at a rate of 5 seeds per pot and 5 pots/repetitions per condition (treated plants and control plants).

[0329] On appearance of the cotyledons, the treatment is applied using a spraying bench simulating an outdoor treatment.

[0330] The plants are treated with benzyl alcohol, alone or in combination, with 3 doses of active material (30 L/ha, 40 L/ha and 60 L/ha), respectively diluted in 200 L water. The spraying volume of 200 L/ha.

[0331] An untreated control (water alone) is added.

[0332] The cultivation conditions are 15° C. during the night/20° C. during the day with a photoperiod of 14 hours (light intensity of approximately 300 μmol/s/m.sup.2).

[0333] A visual rating of the symptoms at 1, 3 and 7 days after treatment is carried out for the treated plants. The value 0 corresponds to a visual rating of a plant similar to the control and the value of 100 corresponds to the dead plant.

[0334] Each value is an average value calculated over 5 pots per condition.

Assay No. 1: Benzyl Alcohol Alone

[0335] The results are given in Table 13 below.

TABLE-US-00013 TABLE 13 1 day after 3 days after 7 days after Dose (L/ha) treatment treatment treatment 0 (control) 0 0 0 30 3 21 81 40 59 82 93 60 63 92 100

Assay No. 2: Benzyl Alcohol and Sodium Benzoate

[0336] Sodium benzoate is used at a rate of 1.5% by weight relative to the total weight of active material (benzyl alcohol+sodium benzoate).

[0337] The results are given in Table 14 below.

TABLE-US-00014 TABLE 14 1 day after 3 days after 7 days after Dose (L/ha) treatment treatment treatment 0 (control) 0 0 0 30 4 25 37 40 49 82 93 60 63 99 100

[0338] The results show a quicker herbicide activity (reduction of the action time) in comparison with benzyl alcohol used alone.

Assay No. 3: Benzyl Alcohol and Salicylic Acid

[0339] The results are given in Table 15 below.

[0340] Salicylic acid is used at a rate of 3% by weight relative to the total weight of active material (benzyl alcohol+salicylic acid).

TABLE-US-00015 TABLE 15 1 day after 3 days after 7 days after Dose (L/ha) treatment treatment treatment 0 (control) 0 0 0 30 24 34 67 40 63 78 100 60 73 100 100

[0341] The results show that, under the tested conditions, the combination of benzyl alcohol and salicylic acid makes it possible to obtain a herbicide effect greater than that of benzyl alcohol alone, in particular 7 days after treatment, with a dose of 40 L/ha (death of the plants).

Assay No. 4: Benzyl Alcohol and Lysozyme

[0342] Lysozyme is used at a rate of 0.15% by weight relative to the total weight of active material (benzyl alcohol+lysozyme).

[0343] The results are given in Table 16 below.

TABLE-US-00016 TABLE 16 1 day after 3 days after 7 days after Dose (L/ha) treatment treatment treatment 0 (control) 0 0 0 30 13 25 47 40 49 79 89 60 61 93 100

[0344] The results show that, under the tested conditions, the combination of benzyl alcohol and lysozyme makes it possible to obtain a herbicide effect greater than that of benzyl alcohol alone, in particular 3 days after treatment, with a dose of 60 L/ha.

Assay No. 5: Benzyl Alcohol and Phenethyl Alcohol

[0345] Phenethyl alcohol is used at a rate of 3% by weight relative to the total weight of active material (benzyl alcohol+phenethyl alcohol).

[0346] The results are given in Table 17 below.

TABLE-US-00017 TABLE 17 1 day after 3 days after 7 days after Dose (L/ha) treatment treatment treatment 0 (control) 0 0 0 30 28 36 69 40 65 100 100 60 75 100 100

[0347] The results show that, under the tested conditions, the combination of benzyl alcohol and lysozyme makes it possible to obtain a herbicide effect greater than that of benzyl alcohol alone, in particular 3 days after treatment, with doses of 40 L/ha and 60 L/ha (death of the plants).