CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The benefit under 35 USC 119 of U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62/202,898 filed August 9, 2015 in the name of Allen L. Jones is hereby claimed. The disclosure of U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62/202,898 is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety, for all purposes.

FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to herbicidal compositions that are cidally effective against unwanted vegetation such as grasses, woody brush, trees, and weeds, and to methods of combating unwanted vegetation in loci containing or susceptible to emergence of same. The disclosure also relates to compositions of such type that are herbicidal as well as pest-combating in character.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

[0003] In the use of phytotoxic agents to combat unwanted plant species such as grasses, woody brush, trees, and weeds in various locations in which they grow, a wide variety of herbicidal compositions have been developed and are in use. These compositions in many cases are highly effective in killing grasses, woody brush, trees, and weeds, but have attendant environmental toxicity or other deficiencies in health and safety characteristics that render them undesirable for general use.

[0004] For a sustainable herbicide, it is imperative to develop an effective herbicidal action that is not systemic to control vegetation without detrimental effects to bees and other pollinator populations. Moreover, a sustainable choice would also include a mode of action to which vegetation cannot develop resistance, and such sustainable choice would exclude herbicidal agents having a mode of action that is detrimental to humans and animals.

[0005] Many "natural" or "environmentally friendly" herbicidal agents that have been used to date have not been highly effective, and many require full sun, relatively high temperatures, and a period without rain in order to work effectively. In general, these agents have not exhibited the capability of retaining their initial active character for extended periods of time in controlling unwanted vegetation, and other synthetic compositions have been used to replace them. Unfortunately, such other synthetic compositions in many cases have detrimental effects on beneficial insect populations, as well as adversely affecting human and animal health. [0006] Many of the same issues encountered with herbicidal agents are associated with synthetic pesticides. Synthetic pesticides in general have been linked to a wide range of human health hazards, ranging from short-term impact such as headaches and nausea to chronic impacts, such as cancer, reproductive system pathology, and endocrine disruption. Most formulations of effective insecticides use synthetic toxic compounds that are systemic and also persist in the soil, negatively affecting habitats for plants and pollinator species, and run off into waterways where they adversely affect aquatic life. Ethanol is used in many pesticide formulas to dissolve synthetic toxic compounds, but ethanol formulations are highly flammable (Flammability of Class 3), volatile, and can create significant hazards to human health. The use of both synthetic insecticides and herbicides on residential, farm, and industrial properties, and the use of synthetic insecticides on livestock and pets, have devastated a wide variety of habitats and negatively affected human and animal health.

[0007] In consequence, the art continues to seek improvements in herbicidal compositions that are effective for killing unwanted vegetation such as grasses, woody brush, trees, and weeds, but which are benign to other plants and the environment generally, and otherwise entail no health or safety hazards to persons applying such compositions, or persons who are present in locations to which such compositions have been applied. The art also has need of compositions having herbicidal and/or pesticidal character, which are environmentally benign and pose no health risks to humans and/or animals.

SUMMARY

[0008] The present disclosure relates to herbicidal compositions that are usefully employed to eliminate unwanted vegetation, e.g., grasses, woody brush, trees, and weeds, from areas in which they are not wanted, as well as to methods of combating undesired grasses, woody brush, trees, and weeds in such areas. The disclosure also encompasses compositions of such type, which have pest-combating, e.g., pesticidal and/or pest-repellent character, and therefore can be applied to plants, animals, human skin, clothing, etc., to combat insect, arthropod, and other pests..

[0009] In one aspect, the disclosure relates to a herbicidal composition comprising (i) one or more soap and/or detergent ingredients, and (ii) free fatty acid(s).

[0010] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a pest control composition, comprising a combination of ingredients selected from the group consisting of:

(a) coconut oil soap and free fatty acid(s), for yard and crop insect and arthropod control; (b) coconut oil soap, free fatty acid(s), and sodium lauryl sulfate, for yard and crop insect and arthropod control;

(c) any of the foregoing (a) and (b), further comprising modified vegetable oil(s) to impart increased cidal penetration and duration (weatherproofing), or increased insect and arthropod repellency;

(d) any of the foregoing (a)-(c), in a formulation constituted for one or more of deer repellence, insect repellence, and arthropod repellence;

(e) MCT soap and free fatty acids, optionally with modified vegetable oil(s), in a formulation constituted for insecticidal and arthropod-repellent applications;

(f) a formulation (e), further comprising sodium lauryl sulfate;

(g) any of the foregoing (a) -(f), in a formulation constituted for insect and arthropod control on articles or structures comprising wood and/or cellulosic material; and

(h) any of the foregoing (a)-(g), further comprising additional insect and/or arthropod control agents.

[0011] In a further aspect, the disclosure relates to an insecticidal and arthropod-repellent composition comprising, including MCT soap and free fatty acids, optionally with modified vegetable oil(s).

[0012] Another aspect of the disclosure relates to a herbicidal and/or pesticidal composition, selected from the group consisting of Formula A through Formula M, as described more fully hereinafter.

[0013] Yet another aspect of the invention relates to a method of combating unwanted vegetation in a locus containing or susceptible to emergence thereof, said method comprising administering to said locus an effective amount of a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[0014] Another aspect of the disclosure relates to a method of combating pests, comprising applying to the pests and/or an environment containing or susceptible to presence or incursion of pests, a pest-combating composition of the present disclosure.

[0015] In one aspect, the disclosure relates to a herbicidal composition, comprising (i) soy methyl ester, (ii) sodium laurel sulfate, and (iii) C ₆ -Ci ₂ fatty acid(s).

[0016] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a herbicidal composition, comprising (i) soy methyl ester, (ii) sodium laurel sulfate, (iii) C ₆ -Ci ₂ fatty acid(s), and (iv) diluent, wherein the soy methyl ester has a concentration in a range of from 1% to 60%, the sodium laurel sulfate has a concentration in a range of from 0.1 to 20%, the C ₆ -Ci ₂ fatty acid(s) has a concentration in a range of from 1% to 60%, and the diluent has a concentration in a range of from 1 to 97.9%, wherein said concentrations are percentages by weight, based on total weight of ingredients (i)- (iv), and wherein the amounts of all ingredients (i), (ii), (iii), and (iv) total to 100 weight percent.

[0017] A further aspect of the disclosure relates to a herbicidal composition, comprising: Soy Methyl Ester, Capric Acid, Capryllic Acid, Laurie Acid, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Glycerol Monostearate, Potassium Oleate, Glycerin, and Water.

[0018] A still further aspect of the disclosure relates to a herbicidal composition, comprising: Soy Methyl Ester, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Laurie Acid, Glycerin, Potassium Oleate, Glycerol Monostearate, and Water.

[0019] Another aspect of the disclosure relates to a herbicidal composition, comprising: Soy Methyl Ester, Capric Acid, Capryllic Acid, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Laurie Acid, Peg40 Castor Oil, Polysorbate 20, Potassium Oleate, Sodium Bicarbonate, Glycerol Monostearate, Citric Acid, Glycerin, Sodium Benzoate, and Water.

[0020] Yet another aspect of the disclosure relates to a herbicidal composition, comprising: Soy Method Ester, a C ₆ , C ₈ , Ci ₀ , C ₁₂ fatty acid mixture, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Glycerin, Pancreatic Amylase, Fungal Lipase, Cellulase, Subtilisin, Amylase, and Proteinase.

[0021] Other aspects, features and embodiments of the disclosure will be more fully apparent from the ensuing description and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] FIG. 1 is a photograph of a woody brush area, prior to any treatment.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a photograph of the woody brush area of FIG. 1, one day after treatment of such area with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 3 is a photograph of the woody brush area of FIG. 1, one week after treatment of such area with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 4 is a photograph of a woody tree, prior to any treatment.

[0026] FIG. 5 is a photograph of the woody tree of FIG. 4, one day after treatment of such tree with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 6 is a photograph of the woody tree of FIG. 4, one week after treatment of such tree with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 7 is a photograph of Johnson grass, prior to any treatment.

[0029] FIG. 8 is a photograph of the Johnson grass of FIG. 7, one day after treatment with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 9 is a photograph of the Johnson grass of FIG. 7, one week after treatment with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure. [0031] FIG. 10 is a photograph of crabgrass, prior to any treatment.

[0032] FIG. 11 is a photograph of the crabgrass shown in FIG. 10, one day after treatment with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 12 is a photograph of the crabgrass shown in FIG. 10, one week after treatment with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 13 is a photograph of thistle weed, prior to any treatment.

[0035] FIG. 14 is a photograph of the thistle weed shown in FIG. 13, one day after treatment with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 15 is a photograph of the thistle weed shown in FIG. 13, one week after treatment with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIGS. 16-24 are compiled photographs illustrating the treatment of various target vegetation with the Formula F composition of the disclosure, as applied with a 100 gallons per application spray wand applicator.

[0038] FIGS. 25 is a composite of before and after photographs illustrating the treatment of small briars with the Formulation G composition of the disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 26 is a composite of before and after photographs illustrating the treatment of large briars, ivy, and weeds with the Formulation H composition of the disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 27 is a composite of before and after photographs illustrating the treatment of grass with the Formulation H composition of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] The present disclosure relates to herbicidal compositions that are cidally effective against unwanted vegetation, such as grasses, woody brush, trees, and weeds, and to methods of use of such compositions to combat grasses, woody brush, trees, and weeds in loci in which same are not desired. The disclosure also relates to compositions of herbicidal character, which additionally have pest-combating utility.

[0042] The herbicidal compositions of the present disclosure may be provided as a concentrate that is diluted with a suitable diluent to yield a formulation for administration to a locus in which undesired vegetation such as grasses, woody brush, trees, and weeds are present, or in which germination and growth of such grasses, woody brush, trees, and weeds may occur if the locus is untreated. Alternatively, the composition may be provided in a ready to use (RTU) form.

[0043] "C ₆ -Ci ₂ fatty acid(s)" as referred to herein comprise one or more fatty acids having carbon number(s) in a range of from 6 to 12. Preferred C ₆ -Ci ₂ fatty acids have even-numbered carbon numbers, i.e., C ₆ , C ₈ , Ci ₀ , and C _i2 , and the C ₆ -Ci ₂ fatty acid(s) ingredient may therefore comprise a combination of such C ₆ , C ₈ , Ci ₀ , and C ₁₂ , fatty acids, or a selected one or ones thereof, or alternatively a combination of any other fatty acids having carbon numbers in the range of from 6 to 12, or a selected one or ones thereof. The C ₆ -Ci ₂ fatty acid(s) in specific embodiments may for example include a mixture of C ₈ , Ci ₀ , and C ₁₂ fatty acids, a mixture of C ₆ and Ci ₀ fatty acids, a mixture of C ₈ and Ci ₀ , fatty acids, or a mixture of Ci ₀ and C ₁₂ fatty acids.

[0044] Correspondingly, "C ₈ -Ci ₂ fatty acid(s)" as referred to herein comprise one or more fatty acids having carbon number(s) in a range of from 8 to 12. Preferred C ₈ -C ₁₂ fatty acids have even-numbered carbon numbers, i.e., C ₈ , Ci ₀ , and C _i2 , and the C ₈ -C ₁₂ fatty acid(s) ingredient may therefore comprise a combination of such C ₈ , Ci ₀ , and C _i2 , fatty acids, or a selected one or ones thereof, or alternatively a combination of any other fatty acids having carbon numbers in the range of from 8 to 12, or a selected one or ones thereof. The C ₈ -C ₁₂ fatty acid(s) in specific embodiments may for example include a mixture of C ₈ , Ci ₀ , and C ₁₂ fatty acids, or a mixture of C ₈ and Cio, fatty acids, or a mixture of Ci ₀ and C ₁₂ fatty acids.

[0045] In various embodiments, the compositions of the present disclosure may be provided in concentrate form or in diluted, e.g., ready to use (RTU) form, and in any of such forms, the compositions may comprise, consist, or consist essentially of, the ingredients variously specified herein, or selected one or ones thereof. Relative proportions of ingredients in such compositions may be readily determined, within the skill in the art, based on the disclosure herein, without undue experimentation.

[0046] The present disclosure relates to a variety of herbicidal compositions including (i) one or more soap and/or detergent ingredients, and (ii) free fatty acid(s).

[0047] The herbicidal compositions in various formulations may include soap ingredients such as MCT soap and/or coconut oil soap. MCT (medium chain triglycerides) soap is derived from fractionated coconut oil.

[0048] The herbicidal compositions in other formulations may include one or more detergent ingredients. In various embodiments, the one or more detergent ingredients may comprise sodium laurel sulfate.

[0049] In other formulations, the herbicidal compositions of the disclosure may comprise soap and detergent ingredients, e.g., (i) MCT soap and sodium lauryl sulfate, (ii) coconut oil soap and sodium lauryl sulfate, (iii) MCT soap, coconut oil soap, and sodium lauryl sulfate.

[0050] Accordingly, the phrase "one or more soap and/or detergent ingredients" is intended to be broadly construed to encompass (a) one or more soap ingredients, (b) one or more detergent ingredients, and (c) one or more soap ingredients in combination with one or more detergent ingredients.

[0051] The (ii) free fatty acid(s) that are utilized with the (i) one or more soap and/or detergent ingredients, can be of any suitable type. In various formulations, the free fatty acid(s) comprise C ₆ -Ci ₂ fatty acid(s), e.g., C ₆ and/or C ₈ and/or do and/or C ₁₂ fatty acid(s). In other formulations, the free fatty acid(s) comprise C ₈ -Ci ₂ fatty acid(s), e.g., C ₈ and/or Ci ₀ and/or C ₁₂ fatty acid(s).

[0052] The free fatty acids in various embodiments may include caproic acid as a C ₆ fatty acid, caprylic acid as a C ₈ fatty acid, capric acid as a Ci ₀ fatty acid, and lauric acid as a C ₁₂ fatty acid.

[0053] Accordingly, the herbicidal compositions of the present disclosure including (i) one or more soap and/or detergent ingredients, and (ii) free fatty acid(s) may in various specific formulations comprise any of the following combinations of ingredients: (a) MCT soap, and C ₈ and/or Ci ₀ and/or C ₁₂ free fatty acid(s); (b) coconut oil soap, and C ₈ and/or Ci ₀ and/or C ₁₂ free fatty acid(s); (c) MCT soap and coconut oil soap, and C ₈ and/or do and/or d ₂ free fatty acid(s); (d) any of the foregoing (a)-(c), further comprising sodium lauryl sulfate; (e) sodium lauryl sulfate, and C ₈ and/or do and/or d ₂ free fatty acid(s); (f) any of the foregoing (a)-(d), further comprising modified vegetable oil that is effective as a penetrant and solvent into woody stem plants; and (g) any of the foregoing (a)-(f), further comprising additional herbicidal actives.

[0054] The additional herbicidal actives in various embodiments may comprise natural herbicidal ingredients such as cedarwood oil or other natural herbicidal ingredients, and/or synthetic herbicidal ingredients of suitable type or types.

[0055] The herbicidal compositions of the present disclosure include formulations that in addition to herbicidal activity are pesticidal, e.g., insecticidal, in character. In various formulations, such herbicidal compositions having insecticidal or other pesticidal activity, comprise coconut oil soap, and free fatty acid(s), e.g., C ₈ and/or d ₀ and/or d ₂ free fatty acid(s).

[0056] The present disclosure also contemplates various pest control compositions, comprising a combination of ingredients selected from the group consisting of: (a) coconut oil soap and free fatty acid(s), for yard and crop insect and arthropod control; (b) coconut oil soap, free fatty acid(s), and sodium lauryl sulfate, for yard and crop insect and arthropod control; (c) any of the foregoing (a) and (b), further comprising modified vegetable oil(s) to impart increased cidal penetration and duration (weatherproofing), or increased insect and arthropod repellency; (d) any of the foregoing (a)-(c), in a formulation constituted for one or more of deer repellence, insect repellence, and arthropod repellence; (e) MCT soap and free fatty acids, optionally with modified vegetable oil(s), in a formulation constituted for insecticidal and arthropod-repellent applications; (f) a formulation (e), further comprising sodium lauryl sulfate; (g) any of the foregoing (a)-(f), in a formulation constituted for insect and arthropod control on articles or structures comprising wood and/or cellulosic material; and (h) any of the foregoing (a)-(g), further comprising additional insect and/or arthropod control agents.

[0057] Compositions of the present disclosure when applied to vegetation function as animal repellents on such vegetation, since animals do not want to eat the treated vegetation, thereby protecting such vegetation.

[0058] The additional insect and/or arthropod control agents in the above pest control compositions may comprise pest-control oils such as cedarwood oil and/or geraniol, and/or synthetic and/or natural pest-control active ingredient(s).

[0059] Thus, the disclosure in various aspects provides insecticidal soap compositions with specific vegetable fatty acid profiles and penetrating ingredients, to greatly enhance herbicidal activity and control of vegetation using natural ingredient-containing sustainable compositions that are effective for fortifying soil and environmental habitats. Increased effectiveness of such formulations is achievable with higher dilutions with water, while remaining effective in rain, low sun, and/or low temperature conditions.

[0060] In herbicidal compositions of the present disclosure, comprising detergent and/or soap ingredients, the detergent (e.g., sodium lauryl sulfate and/or other detergent(s)) and/or soap action dissolves waxy portions of vegetation allowing penetration of fatty acids into the vegetation. The vegetable fatty acid profile content is an important aspect of the herbicidal activity toward grass, weeds, and woody stem plants, in making the product selective or nonselective in character. A penetrating solvent may be used for the herbicidal actives in the composition to penetrate into the plant mass and most significantly woody stem plants. The amount of penetrant ingredient(s) that is effective to dissolve the herbicidal active ingredient(s) and mediate penetration into woody stems and spread into the plant is a function of the vegetable fatty acid content in the modified vegetable oil when present in the composition. Control of different types of vegetation can be made selective by the vegetable fatty acid profile employed with the detergent or soap that is selected for the composition, and the type and amount of the penetrant that is used, as selected with specific vegetable fatty acids to dissolve herbicidal active(s) into the plant cells.

[0061] In general, the use of detergent such as sodium lauryl sulfate and specific fatty acids, in the absence of herbicidal soap ingredient(s), affords good "burn down" results in grasses and weeds, but a penetrant is typically necessary to kill woody stem plants. Modified vegetable oil with a specific fatty acid profile enables the herbicidal active ingredient(s) to penetrate woody stems quickly and is rain-proof.

[0062] In various compositions of the present disclosure, coconut oil soap and/or MTC soap can be used in place of or in addition to detergent ingredients such as sodium lauryl sulfate. In various implementations, the soap content may be carefully saponified and partially acidulated to have free fatty acids with specific ranges of a desired fatty acid profile so that use of detergent ingredients such as sodium lauryl sulfate is not necessary. The detergent and/or soap action dissolves the waxy portion of the vegetation to aid in penetrating the herbicidal active(s) into the vegetation. The vegetable fatty acid profile causes a non-systemic action to destroy the cell wall of the plant and to act as a desiccant.

[0063] In various compositions of the disclosure, a detergent and/or soap may be utilized for what he plant penetration, together with an effective herbicidal vegetable fatty acid profile from coconut oil or palm oil and methylated seed oil (also known as modified vegetable oil). The methylated seed oil may be obtained from soybean oil, but can be derived from other vegetable oils including canola oil, palm oil, and others. The amount of modified vegetable oil in the composition is a portion or percentage of the amount of fatty acid oil content and detergent that is used, in order to penetrate the target vegetation and to waterproof the herbicidal action.

[0064] Thus, for contact action without penetration, the herbicidal composition may be formulated without modified vegetable oil component(s), to provide a highly rapid vegetation burn-down that does not affect other vegetation. Such formulation of the herbicidal composition may for example be highly beneficial to berry growers for control of grass and weeds. For woody stem control, modified vegetable oil advantageously is used to penetrate the woody plant, including, for example, tree limbs or entire trees. Contact is required, but the composition does not act systemically in that the herbicidal active ingredient(s) are not carried throughout the part of the plant or tree that is not contacted with the composition. Control of vegetation may thereby be conducted selectively and by non-systemic mode of action.

[0065] Further non-selectivity of particular plant species may be obtained by varying the fatty acid profile, and the detergent and/or soap content of the composition. For example, control of broad leaf plants without killing of grass may be accommodated by use of positions of the disclosure that do not contain modified vegetable oil, so that detergent and/or soap content, together with a fatty acid profile for broad leaf weeds, is utilized. For woody stem plants, a specific fatty acid profile may be selected so as not to kill grass, using compositions containing modified vegetable oil. [0066] Thus, modified vegetable oil as a penetrant may optionally be employed with or without the vegetable fatty acid profile, depending on the nature and extent of penetration that is desired. Various adjuvants may be employed that have a vegetable fatty acid content that is effective to enhance the effectiveness of penetration and solvating effect for the herbicidal activity. Advantageously, when modified vegetable oil is used as a penetrant, the specific fatty acid profile of the modified vegetable oil penetrant is selected so that the modified vegetable oil is readily biodegradable, while simultaneously being effective is a solvent for the herbicidal active(s) and the woody stem plants. Vegetable fatty acid profile is important in human nutrition, and can additionally be formulated for non-systemic herbicidal activity that is readily biodegradable to provide soil nutrients and food for microorganisms.

[0067] Vegetable fatty acids useful in the practice of the present disclosure are found in coconut and/or soybean oil, which may be employed singly or in mixture with one another in compositions of the present disclosure. Coconut oil is a vegetable oil that derives from a coconut palm (Cocos nucifera) that is pollinated by bees. There are additional vegetable sources with similar fatty acid content, such as palm oil and canola oil. In addition to natural coconut oil and/or natural soybean oil, the present disclosure encompasses compositions employing mixtures that are identical to natural products obtained from synthetic or natural oils, which correspond in their mixture to natural products.

[0068] Sodium lauryl sulfate, or SLS (CAS Number 151-21-3), is a preferred detergent ingredient in compositions of the present disclosure that comprise detergent. Sodium lauryl sulfate is approved for food use as a pesticide in the United States. It is preferred in conjunction with a vegetable fatty acid profile for herbicidal activity, and may be made from lauric acid derived from coconut oil or palm oil.

[0069] MCT soap utilized in various compositions of the present disclosure may be made by saponification of MCT oil performed with potassium hydroxide (KOH) or other saponification agent according to the Saponification Value of MCT, with water used to create soap being at minimum 50% and at maximum 60%. The soap form may be acidulated partially with citric acid to free fatty acids C ₈ and Ci ₀ , or free fatty acids C ₈ and Ci ₀ may be separately added to the MCT soap without acidulation.

[0070] Fatty acids and soap content used in compositions of the present disclosure may derive from refined coconut oil known as MCT oil, or alternatively may be derived from palm oil or synthetic oils. MCT oil contains medium chain fatty acids, and may be utilized alone or in combination with other fatty acids, in the formulation of compositions of the present disclosure. MCT oil is a generally recognized as safe (GRAS) ingredient (United States FDA), and is an edible oil. MCT oil can be made into soap by saponification in which vegetable fatty acid of the soap and detergent properties are advantageously employed in compositions of the present disclosure. A typical composition of MCT oil is shown in Table A below

[0071] Table 1 : MCT Oil Specification

Specification

Acid Value 0.1 Max

Saponification Value 325-345

Moisture% 0.15 Max

Fatty Acid Composition:

C8 55 - 65

CIO 35 - 45

[0072] In like manner, coconut oil soap utilized in various compositions of the present disclosure may be made by saponification of coconut oil performed with potassium hydroxide (KOH) or other saponification agent according to the Saponification Value of Coconut Oil, with water used to create soap being at minimum 50% and at maximum 60%. The soap form may be acidulated with citric acid so that primarily C ₁₂ fatty acid (lauric acid) is free, and preferably the acidulation is carried out so that additional C ₈ and Ci ₀ fatty acids are free. Alternatively, lauric acid and/or capric acid and/or caprylic acid can be added separately to the coconut oil soap without acidulation.

[0073] Coconut oil may be obtained by pressing and extraction of seeds of the coconut palm.

Coconut oil is a generally recognized as safe (GRAS) ingredient (United States FDA), and is an edible oil. Coconut oil is a mixture of different fatty acids, the exact composition varies in dependency from the place of origin and the conditions during growth. A typical composition is shown in Table 2 below.

[0074] Table 2: Coconut Oil Specification

Saponification Value: 250-265

Fatty Acid Content (wt. %)

Capronic acid (C6) 0.2- 1.0

Caprylic acid (C8) 5.4- 10.0

Capric acid (CIO) 6.5-8.5

Lauric acid (CI 2) 45.0-55.0

Mynstic acid (C14) 16.5-18.5

Palmitic acid (C I 6) 8.0-10.5 Fatty Acid Content (wt. %)

Stearic acid (C 18) 2.0-2.8

Oleic acid (C 18: 1 ) 5.0- 10.0

Linolic acid (CI 8:2) 0.7-1 .9

[0075] Modified vegetable oil utilized in compositions of the present disclosure is advantageously methylated soybean oil. Alternatively, any vegetable oil feedstock may be employed, with preferred oil feedstocks having good solvency characteristics, remaining viscous through a practical range of temperature, e.g., 50°F-110°F, and not solidifying in cooler weather. Canola oil is similar in fatty acid profile to soybean oil, and a preferred feedstock.

[0076] Methylation of the soybean oil enables the fatty acid content to act as a solvent and penetrant to woody stem plants with a high solvency KB (Kauri-butanol) value of 58, which is an excellent natural solvent. Soybean oil is a mixture of different fatty acids, whose exact composition varies dependent on the source of the soybeans from which the oil is derived. A typical soybean oil composition is set out in Table 3 below.

[0077] Table 3

Fatty acid

Content Wt. % (most common value)

(number of carbon atoms:number of double bonds)

C16 0 7.0-14 (10)

C18 0 1.4-4.5 (4.0)

C18 1 19-30 (21)

CI 8 2 44-62 (56)

C18 3 4-11 (8)

[0078] In addition to the above-noted fatty acids, soybean oil comprises lesser amounts of fatty acids having 14 or fewer carbon atoms (less than 0.6 wt %), a small amount of C _l6 fatty acids having one double bond (less than 0.5 wt %) as well as a low amount of fatty acids having 20 or 22. carbon atoms and 0 or 1 double bond, respectively (each less than 1.0 wt %).

[0079] Compositions of the present disclosure may also comprise fatty acid ester ingredients, such as vegetable methyl ester commercially available from Solvent Systems International as SSI Vegetable Methyl Ester.

[0080] Compositions of the present disclosure may be of varying forms, and may be a single phase soap composition, or alternatively an emulsion composition, in various embodiments. Emulsified forms of compositions of the present disclosure may be formulated using emulsifiers or emulsion-forming ingredients in any suitable manner, including those illustratively described elsewhere herein. Likewise, surfactants and surfactant builders may be employed in compositions of the present disclosure, as illustratively described elsewhere herein.

[0081] Compositions of the present disclosure may be prepared in the form of a concentrate that then is diluted by the end-user, or they may be provided as ready to use compositions to the user. The compositions of the present disclosure may utilize additional herbicidal and/or pest- control ingredient(s). Additional herbicidal ingredient(s) include other oils having herbicidal activity, e.g., cedarwood oil. In addition, formulations containing other herbicidal active (s) can be enhanced by using the vegetable fatty acid profiles and formulations and methods of the present disclosure.

[0082] The present disclosure further contemplates insecticidal and arthropod-repellent compositions, including (a) MCT soap and free fatty acids, optionally with modified vegetable oil(s).

[0083] The herbicidal compositions of the present disclosure provide safe and effective action in combating unwanted plants in areas containing or susceptible to emergence of same, and the compositions having herbicidal as well as pesticidal character likewise provide safe and effective action in combating unwanted plants as well as combating undesired pest species. The compositions of the present disclosure are readily formulated with natural ingredients, and have been found to have no adverse effect on bee and pollinator populations. In various formulations, the compositions of the present disclosure provide sustainable herbicidal and/or pesticidal action and may be formulated with recycled vegetable oil ingredients and other natural ingredients to provide vegetation control formulations, variously including selective as well as non-selective contact herbicides with a non-systemic mode of action.

[0084] Set out below are illustrative compositions of the present disclosure (Formula A through Formula M), as non-limiting examples of specific compositions in particular embodiments of the disclosure.

[0085] Formula A: 20% Soy Methyl Ester, 10% Capric Acid, 10% Capryllic Acid, 5% Laurie Acid, 3% Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (Standapol WAQ-LC, BASF CAS 68585-47-7), 0.3% Glycerol Monostearate, 0.3% Potassium Oleate, 0.4% Glycerin, and 51% Water

[0086] Formula B: 5% Soy Methyl Ester, 4% Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (Standapol WAQ-LC, BASF CAS 68585-47-7), 2% Laurie Acid, 5% Glycerin, 4% Potassium Oleate, 3% Glycerol Monostearate, and 77% Water

[0087] Formula C: 30% Soy Methyl Esther, 5% Capric Acid, 5% Caprylic Acid, 4% Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (Standapol WAQ-LC, BASF CAS 68585-47-7), 1% mark acid, 1% Peg40 Castor Oil, 0.9% Polysorbate 20, 0.2% Potassium Oleate, 0.3% Sodium Bicarbonate, 0.2% Glycerol Monostearate, 0.2% Citric Acid, 0.1% Glycerin, 0.1% Sodium Benzoate, and 52% Water

[0088] Formula D: 47% Soy Methyl Ester, 47% C ₆ , C ₈ , do, C ₁₂ fatty acid mixture (LC- 810L, Peter Cremer CAS 67762-36-1), and 6% Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (Standapol WAQ-LC, BASF CAS 68585-47-7)

[0089] Formula E: 41% Soy Methyl Ester, 41% C6, C8, C 10, C 12 fatty acid mixture (LC- 810L, Peter Cremer CAS 67762-36-1), 4.5% Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (Standapol WAQ-LC, BASF CAS 68585-47-7), 1% Glycerin, Enzymes (2.5% Pancreatic Amylase, 2.5% Fungal Lipase, 2.5% Cellulase, 2.5% Subtilisin (proteolytic enzyme), 2.5% Bacteria, Complex (with Amylase and Proteinase CAS 068920-42-3)

[0090] Formula F: From concentrate, 30% Modified Soy Oil, 22.5% C8, 17.5% CIO, 4% C12, 6% SLS, 10% MCT SOAP diluted with water to 20% Concentrate for RTU. RTU: 6% Modified Soy Oil, 4.5% C8, 3.5% CIO, 0.8% C12, 1.2% SLS, 2% MCT Soap, Water 82%

[0091] Formula G: From Concentrate, 30% Coconut Oil Soap, 10% Laurie Acid, 4% Glycerin, 3% GMS, 1% Citric Acid, 52% Water diluted with water to 10% Concentrate for RTU. RTU: 3% Coconut Oil Soap, 1% Laurie Acid, 0.4% Glycerin, 0.3% GMS, 0.1% Citric Acid, 95.2%Water

[0092] Formula H: From Concentrate, 30% MCT Oil Soap, 4% Laurie Acid, 12% C8, 8% CIO, 4% Glycerin, 3% GMS, 1% Citric Acid, 38% Water diluted with water to 25% Concentrate for RTU. RTU: 7.5% MCT Oil Soap, 1% Laurie Acid, 3% C8, 2% CIO, 1% Glycerin, 0.75% GMS, 0.25% Citric Acid, 84.5% Water

[0093] Formula I: From Concentrate, 70% Coconut Oil Soap, 8% Laurie Acid, 3% Glycerin, 10% Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, 7% water, and 2% Citric Acid diluted with water to 25% Concentrate for RTU. RTU: 17.5% Coconut Oil Soap, 2% Laurie Acid, 0.75% Glycerin, 2.5% Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, 0.5% Citric Acid, 76.75%Water

[0094] Formula J: From Concentrate, 25% 'Modified Vegetable Oil', 55% Coconut Oil Soap, 7% Laurie Acid, 2% Glycerin, 10% Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, and 1% Citric Acid diluted with water to 50% Concentrate for RTU. RTU: 12.5% 'Modified Vegetable Oil', 27.5% Coconut Oil Soap, 3.5% Laurie Acid, 1% Glycerin, 5% Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, 0.5% Citric Acid, 50% Water

[0095] Formula K: From Concentrate, 70% Coconut Oil Soap, 8% Laurie Acid, 3% Glycerin, 10% Cedarwood Oil, 7% water, and 2% Citric Acid diluted with water to 25% Concentrate for RTU. RTU: 17.5% Coconut Oil Soap, 2% Laurie Acid, 0.75% Glycerin, 2.5% Cedarwood Oil, 0.5% Citric Acid, 76.75%Water [0096] Formula L: From Concentrate, 25% 'Modified Vegetable Oil', 55% Coconut Oil Soap, 7% Laurie Acid, 2% Glycerin, 10% Cedarwood Oil, and 1% Citric Acid diluted with water to 50% Concentrate for RTU. RTU: 12.5% 'Modified Vegetable Oil', 27.5% Coconut Oil Soap, 3.5% Laurie Acid, 1% Glycerin, 5% Cedarwood Oil, 0.5% Citric Acid, 50% Water

[0097] Formula M: From Concentrate, 25% 'Modified Vegetable Oil', 42% MCT Oil Soap, 6% C8, 4% CIO, 10% Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, 2% Glycerin, 10% Geraniol Oil, and 1% Citric Acid diluted with water to 50% Concentrate for RTU. RTU: 12.5% 'Modified Vegetable Oil', 21% MCT Oil Soap, 3% C8 Fatty Acid, 2% C IO Fatty Acid, 5% Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, 1% Glycerin, 5% Geraniol Oil, 0.5% Citric Acid, 50% Water

[0098] The results for use of Formula F, Formula G, and Formula H in specific target vegetation herbicidal applications, and the selectivity/non-selectivity character of such compositions in these applications, are set out in Table 4 below.

[0099] Table 4

[00100] Pesticidal compositions of the present disclosure can be formulated from natural ingredients that are effective but also have a non-systemic mode of action as a contact insecticide and a biodegradable character providing beneficial buildup of soil and maintenance of habitats that are safe for humans and animals. As contact insecticides with a desiccant mode of action, insecticidal compositions of the present disclosure ensure that insects and arthropods will not build up resistance to them, and such compositions can be selectively used to avoid cidal action on beneficial insects.

[00101] The compositions of the present disclosure are readily biodegradable and break down into nutrients and organic matter constituting a food source for beneficial soil organisms. Their formulation with natural vegetable oils deriving from agricultural crops is sustainable, since they are recycled back to the environment without harmful effects.

[00102] Selective herbicidal compositions of the present disclosure, utilizing coconut oil insecticidal soap with free fatty acids, are advantageous for yard and crop sprays, as cidal contact agents for controlling insects and arthropods by a desiccant mode of action. As with herbicidal compositions of the present disclosure, insecticidal compositions in accordance with the present disclosure can be formulated to utilize the free fatty acid content and profile of a soap or detergent by adding fatty acids to the soap or detergent content (e.g., SLS, coconut oil soap, MCT soap) or saponifying coconut oil soap or MCT soap and acidulating the soap forms for the free fatty acid content described herein.

[00103] For cidal action, insects or arthropods must fully contact the pesticidal composition. Accordingly, bees and other pollinators are not affected by landing on the material, and in fact are observed to avoid it until it breaks down. Being readily biodegradable, the insecticidal composition quickly breaks down so that it is not harmful.

[00104] Pesticidal compositions of the present disclosure display enhanced insect and arthropod penetration and cidal effectiveness at higher dilutions with water, to reliably control insects and arthropods. The free fatty acid composition of the insecticidal soap can be optimized to yield immediate quick kill results in application to a wide range of insects and arthropods, including hard bodied insects and arthropods.

[00105] The pesticidal compositions of the present disclosure achieve enhanced results by detergent or soap action dissolving the waxes and protein structures of insect and arthropod exoskeletons, allowing the specific free fatty acid components to penetrate into the exoskeleton and further break down the structure rapidly, causing the insight to quickly dehydrate and respiratory systems to cease as a result of disruption of cell membrane integrity.

[00106] For control of hard bodied insects and arthropods, pesticidal compositions of the present disclosure are advantageously formulated so that soap and/or detergent with the specified fatty acid components along with the modified vegetable oil effect penetration of the outer cuticle structure. The specified fatty acid components are benign with respect to human and animal health and habitats.

[00107] Thus, selective herbicidal compositions for insect and arthropod control can be formulated, which do not kill grass and are selective for broad leaf and/or other weed species. The Formula G composition is particularly effective on insects, killing mosquitoes, aphids, fleas, and other small insects. The Formula I composition containing SLS as a detergent component, together with coconut oil soap and free fatty acid components, is particularly effective on ticks and for controlling hard bodied arthropods. Since these compositions do not have a systemic mode of action and full contact of material is needed to kill an insect or arthropod past, these compositions will not negatively affect beehives or pollinator colonies when bees or other pollinators land on them. Further, these compositions are readily biodegradable and break down quickly into ground nutrients and food sources for microbes, thereby enhancing the soil and enriching pollinator habitats. The Formula I composition has been observed to immediately kill outdoor cockroaches, fire ants, flies, wasps, ticks, spiders, stinkbugs, Japanese beetles, and carpenter bees.

[00108] Adding modified vegetable oil to coconut oil soap with free fatty acids and to detergent, e.g., SLS, compositions, increases cidal and repellent effectiveness by enhancing penetration and weatherproofing for extended insect and arthropod control duration. The Formula J composition, in addition to being cidal to insects and arthropods, is also repellent to cockroaches and other arthropods and they seek to avoid contact. This composition is also more weatherproofing and persisting in character, and lasts for 2 weeks as a deer repellent when sprayed on outside vegetation. The Formula J composition is also highly effective in controlling flies on equine and bovine animal species for 2 weeks after spraying the animals when the animals are out of doors for the entire 2 week period.

[00109] Preferred organic compositions of the present disclosure can be made in certified organic formulas by adding organic oils having cidal or repellent character for arthropod control. A particularly effective organic composition is the Formula K composition containing cedarwood oil that is cidal to insects and arthropods and can be used in yards and on structures. The Formula L composition, of similar formulation to the Formula K formulation but containing modified seed oil, is more weatherproof and lasts 2 weeks as a deer repellent when sprayed on outside vegetation. The Formula L composition also effectively controlled flies on dogs, equine, and bovine animal species for 2 weeks after spraying the animals when the animals are out of doors for the entire 2 week period. Repellency was also observed after spraying outside wood structures and residential wood decking, killing cockroaches, spiders, and carpenter bees on full contact, and repelling insects and arthropods for 30 days.

[00110] Another preferred composition for livestock insecticide application and arthropod control on structures is the Formula M composition, using SLS and MCT oil soap and specific fatty acids, and such composition may be employed for arthropod control on plant species for which the composition is herbicidal.

[00111] The Formula M composition is preferred as a highly effective general pest control composition for killing insects and vegetation, or to control insects and arthropods on animals. The Formula M composition is particularly useful in mulch areas and will control weeds, grasses, insects, and arthropods for more than 30 days.

[00112] Table 5 below identifies specific control results for insecticidal and arthropod control compositions of Formulas G, I, J, K, L, and M.

[00113] Table 5 - Insect, Arthropod, Pest Control Compositions

Grasshopper, Stone walkway, Insects and

Cockroach, Spider, Gravel Area Arthropods from

Carpenter Bee, Fire walkways and wood

Ants, Common Ants, structures and

Wasp mulched areas for 30 days. Controlled arthropods for 30 days on animals.

[00114] It will be appreciated that the compositions of the present disclosure may be formulated in any of suitable forms, including concentrate forms, intermediate diluted forms, and final diluted ready to use forms. The choice of a specific form will depend on the specific ingredients, proportions of water and other solvent media in the final use form of the composition, and other processing, packaging, and transportation considerations.

[00115] In specific embodiments, the herbicidal composition of the present disclosure may comprise a concentrate comprising (i) soy methyl ester, (ii) sodium laurel sulfate, and (iii) C ₆ -Ci ₂ fatty acid(s), e.g., C ₈ and/or Cio and/or C ₁₂ fatty acid(s).

[00116] In various embodiments, the herbicidal composition concentrate may consist, or consist essentially of, the ingredients (i)-(iii).

[00117] The herbicidal composition concentrate may be prepared for use, i.e., administration to a locus containing or susceptible to emergence of unwanted vegetation such as grasses, woody brush, trees, and weeds, by addition to the concentrate, comprising ingredients (i)-(iii), of a (iv) diluent, to form a diluted herbicidal formulation. The diluent may be of any suitable type that is effective for dissolution or suspension of the concentrate ingredients. The diluent may for example comprise an aqueous medium such as water or an alcoholic aqueous solution, a silicone, oil, or any other appropriate diluent. Water is a preferred diluent.

[00118] In addition to the ingredients (i)-(iii) in the herbicidal composition concentrate, and the ingredients (i)-(iv) in the diluted herbicidal formulation, other excipients and ingredients may optionally be employed in either the concentrate or the diluted formulation, such as emulsifiers, defoamers, surfactants, stabilizers, pH modifiers, preservatives, etc. Emulsifiers may be of any suitable type, and may include, for example, one or more of potassium oleate, Peg40 castor oil, polysorbate 20, lecithin, and other emulsifying agents. Defoamers may include glycerol monostearate, potassium oleate, or other suitable deforming agents. Surfactants and stabilizers may be of any suitable types. Suitable pH modifiers include sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, and other base and acid materials. Preservatives that may be employed in various embodiments include citric acid, sodium benzoate, and other preservative agents. Where enzymes are included in the composition, glycerin may be added as an enzyme protectant. [00119] In the concentrate, and in the diluted formulation, the compositions of the disclosure may utilize the ingredients (i)-(iii) in any suitable proportions in relation to one another, and in the diluted formulation, the proportion of (iv) water or other diluent may be substantially varied.

[00120] In various embodiments, the herbicidal composition concentrate may contain (i) soy methyl ester in an amount in a range of from 45 to 50% by weight, (ii) sodium laurel sulfate in an amount of from 4 to 8% by weight, and (iii) from 45 to 50% by weight of C ₆ -Ci ₂ fatty acid(s), e.g., C ₆ and/or C ₈ and/or Ci ₀ and/or C ₁₂ fatty acid(s), based on the total weight of such ingredients (i), (ii), and (iii), wherein the amounts of all such ingredients (i), (ii), and (iii) total to 100 weight percent. In various embodiments, as hereinearlier indicated, the herbicidal composition concentrate may comprise, consist, or consist essentially of, such ingredients (i), (ii), and (iii). In any of such embodiments, the concentrate may incorporate emulsifiers, surfactants, stabilizers, pH modifiers, preservatives, etc.

[00121] In other embodiments, the herbicidal composition concentrate may contain (i) soy methyl ester in an amount in a range of from 46 to 48% by weight, (ii) sodium laurel sulfate in an amount of from 5 to 8% by weight, and (iii) from 46 to 48% by weight of C ₈ and/or Cio and/or Ci ₂ fatty acid(s), based on the total weight of such ingredients (i), (ii), and (iii), wherein the amounts of all such ingredients (i), (ii), and (iii) total to 100 weight percent.

[00122] In various embodiments of the diluted herbicidal formulation, the concentration of the (iv) diluent may be in a range of from 1 to 98% by weight, based on the total weight of the ingredients (i), (ii), (iii), and (iv), wherein the amounts of all such ingredients (i), (ii), (iii), and (iv) total to 100 weight percent. In other embodiments, the concentration of the (iv) diluent may be in a range of from 5 to 95% by weight, or from 10 to 95% by weight, or from 15% to 85% by weight, or in other range, on the same total weight basis, wherein the amounts of all ingredients (i), (ii), (iii), and (iv) total to 100 weight percent.

[00123] In various embodiments, the herbicidal composition concentrate may contain a small amount of diluent, in relation to the amount of diluent that is subsequently added to the concentrate to form the diluted herbicidal formulation.

[00124] Set out in Table 6 below is a listing of the ingredients and amounts thereof in one illustrative embodiment of the herbicidal composition concentrate, as well as an illustrative range of amounts of such ingredients and the diluent in the diluted herbicidal formulation.

[00125] Table 6

INGREDIENT Herbicidal Composition Diluted Herbicidal

Concentrate Containing Formulation (Weight Ingredients (i), (ii), and (iii) percent based on total (Weight percent based on weight of formulation)

mo iers, preservat ves, etc.

[00126] The herbicidal composition concentrate may thus be diluted with water or other diluent to constitute the herbicidal formulation for use as a contact herbicide, penetrating herbicide, and/or selective herbicide. In various embodiments, the herbicidal composition concentrate may contain emulsifiers and/or surfactants for dispersal in water or other diluent medium, as may be appropriate for use in a specific application with specific spray equipment. The herbicidal composition concentrate has been found to be useful for selective weed control in amounts of from 1 to 4 gallons per 3 acres with 50 gallons of water as the diluent in the applied diluted herbicidal formulation applied to such weed-containing acreage.

[00127] In addition to spraying application, the herbicidal compositions of the present disclosure may be administered to specific ground areas, specific plants, or other loci containing or subject to emergence of undesired vegetation. This may include delivery of the composition to a specific locus by drip irrigation, misting, nebulization, direct liquid application, or any other delivery technique which is effective to bring the herbicidal composition in contact with the unwanted vegetation so that it is cidally effective for such vegetation.

[00128] In other specific applications, the herbicidal composition concentrate may be used at full strength without (water) dilution, or alternatively with water dilution of 4 ounces of concentrate per gallon of water, to effectively kill undesired vegetation such as grasses, woody brush, trees, and weeds. In applications in which the weeds comprise Bermuda grass and/or the unwanted vegetation comprises woody brush, diluted herbicidal formulations of 16 ounces of the herbicidal composition concentrate per gallon of water may be employed to effect total vegetation kill of such weeds and woody brush, although higher dilutions may be employed to achieve longer periods of vegetation control.

[00129] The concentrate compositions and diluted formulations of the disclosure are highly effective when applied to grasses, woody brush, trees, or weeds to be killed in a location containing same, where the location receives 2 hours or more of daylight, and are particularly cidally effective when applied prior to rain, at temperatures above 76°F or otherwise at or above the temperature at which the specific vegetation (weeds, woody brush, trees, and grasses) conduct photosynthesis.

[00130] In various embodiments, the use of additional ingredients such as potassium oleate and glycerol in the aqueous (e.g., water) diluent assists in maintaining stability of the active ingredients in the diluted formulation in which the active ingredients and additional ingredients may be emulsified, and is particularly useful for formulations for selective control of unwanted vegetation, e.g., weed(s), woody brush, tree(s), etc. For use as an aquatic herbicide, compositions of the present disclosure may further include enzymes that are cidally effective against pond algae as well as pond plants, weeds, woody brush, trees, and grasses. Such enzymes may be of any suitable type, appropriate to the particular end use of the composition, and may for example include any one or more of amylase, cellulase, keratinase, lifinase, lipase, pectinase, protease, xylanase, and other enzymes.

[00131] Compositions of the present disclosure may be formulated to be selective against woody brush and trees but not other vegetation, e.g., in locations in which it is important to keep existing grass but to remove such woody brush and trees. The composition may thus be applied so that grasses will respond by burning back but thereafter grow back at the treated location, while the woody brush and trees at such location are killed.

[00132] Woody brush and trees as referred to herein encompass woody stem plants and trees, and they sometimes are referred to in the aggregate as woody plants. Woody plants, by definition, are plants that have hard stems, thus the term, "woody", as compared, for example, to "herbaceous" plants. Trees, which are further characterized as deciduous and evergreen plants, are woody plants.

[00133] The compositions of the present disclosure are readily made by blending of ingredients under mixing conditions.

[00134] In compositions containing fatty acid(s), soy methyl ester, and sodium lauryl sulfate, the fatty acid(s) are advantageously blended with the soy methyl ester first and the resulting material blend then is added to the sodium lauryl sulfate under mixing conditions, e.g., sodium lauryl sulfate in a small amount of water or other suitable diluent under high shear mixing. Other diluents may be used, such as silicone or oils or alcohols. When the concentrate is formed without any diluent, foaming may result. To minimize such foaming behavior, the concentrate may be constituted with any of suitable emulsifiers, defoamers, stabilizers, etc., such as lecithin, polysorbate 20, potassium oleate, glycerol monostearate, and glycerin, being blended together under high shear mixing with a water-based diluent to form a stabilized emulsion. Such composition is formulated so that it is appropriate for use in the specific application, and so that the composition satisfies the viscosity and other requirements of the spray equipment or other application devices that are utilized to administer the composition to the locus in which weeds, woody brush, trees, and grasses are to be eliminated. In various specific implementations, preservatives, fragrances, pH modifiers, and other ingredients may also be added to the composition.

[00135] Vegetation that may be controlled using the herbicidal compositions of the present disclosure include, without limitation: (a) woody plants, including, without limitation, Acacia, Alder, Arrowwood, Aspen, Dogwood, Oaks, Thistleberry, Douglas fir, Osage Orange, Tree-of- Heaven (Ailanthus), Ash, Elderberry, Pepper Vine, Trumpet Creeper, Elm, Persimmon, Tulip Poplar, Bear Clover (Bearmat), Gallberry, Persimmon, Beech, Gorse, Pine, Virginia Creeper, Birch, Granjeno, Poison Ivy, Wax Myrtle, Blackberry, Guajillo, Poison Oak, Wild Rose, Blackbrush, Guava, Poplar, Willow, Black gum, Hawthorn, Salmonberry, Winged elm, Boxelder, Hazel, Saltbush (Braccharis spp), Brazilian Pepper, Hickory, Saltbush (silver myrtle), Buckthorn, Hornbeam, Salt Cedar, Cascara, Huisache (suppression), Sassafras, Ceanothus, Kudzu, Scotch Broom, Cherry, Locust, Sumac, Chinquapin, Madrone, Sweetbay, Magnolia, Choke Cherry, Maples, Sweet Gum, Cottonwood, Milkweed Vine, Sycamore, Crataegus (hawthorn), Mulberry, and Tan Oak; (b) weeds, including, without limitation, Black Medic, Curly dock, Matchweed, Sulfur Cinquefoil, Bull Thistle, Dandelion, Mustard, Sweet Clover, Burdock, Dogfennel, Oxalis, Tropical Soda Apple, Canada Thistle, Field Bindweed, Plantain, Vetch, Chicory, Goldenrod, Purple Loosestrife, Wild Carrot (Queen Anne's Lace), Cinquefoil, Ground Ivy, Ragweed, Wild Lettuce, Clover, Lambsquarters, Sericea Lespedeza, Wild Violet, Creeping Beggarweed, Lespedeza, Smartweed, and Yarrow; (c) grasses, including, without limitation, graminoids species including Poaceae (also called Gramineae), sedges (Cyperaceae), and rushes (Juncaceae) including, by common names, Bermuda, Rye, Bluegrass, Fescue, Kikuyu, crabgrass, centipede, Saint Augustine, Bahia, Johnson Grass, and Marsh grasses; (d) woody brush weeds and plants, including annual weeds such as Annual Broomweed (Amphiachyris dracunculoides), Bitter sneezeweed/Basin sneezeweed (Helenium amarum), Buffalobur (Solanum rostratum), Bur buttercup (Ranunculus testiculates), Camphorweed (Heterotheca subaxillaris), Common Cocklebur (Xanthium strumarium), Horseweed (Marestail) (Conyza Canadensis), Lambsquarters - Common (Chenopodium album), Marshelder (Iva annua), Pigweed - Redroot (Amaranthus retroflexus), Ragweed - Common (Ambrosia artemisiifolia), Ragweed - Giant (Ambrosia trifida), Ragweed - Lanceleaf (Southern) (Ambrosia bidentata), Smartweed - Pennsylvania (Polygonum pennsylvanicum), Sunflower - Common (Helianthus annua), Western Bitterweed (Hymenoxys odorata), Woolly Croton (Goatweed, Doveweed) (flowers inconspicuous, usually clustered at branch tips; seeds smooth, somewhat turtle -shaped), and Yellow Starthistle (Centaurea solstitialis); (e) biennials/perennials, including, without limitation, Absinth Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), Blue Vervain (Verbena hastate), Broom Snakeweed (Gutierrezia sarothrae), Chicory (Cichorium intybus), Curly Dock (Rumex crispus), Curly Dock Gumweed (Grindelia squarrosa), Dalmatian Toadflax (Linaria genistifolia), Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), Dogfennel (Eupatorium capillifolium), Field Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis), Fringed (Prairie) Sagewort (Artemisia frigida), Goldenrod (Solidago), Hairy Goldenaster (Heterotheca villosa), Ironweed (Western) (Vernonia baldwinii), Knapweed - Diffuse (Centaurea diffuse), Knapweed - Russian (Acroptilon repens), Knapweed - Spotted (Centaurea Stoebe), Larkspur - Geyer (Delphinim Geyeri), Larkspur - Plains (Delphinim virescens), Larkspur - Tall (Delphinim exaltatum), Locoweed (Lambert and Silky Crazyweed) (Oxytroplis sericea), Milkweed (Asclepias spp), Mullein— Common (Verbascum thapsus), Orange Hawkweed (Hieracium aurantiacum), Oxeye Daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare), Prairie Wild Rose (Rosa arkansana), Pricklypear Cactus (Opuntia polyacantha), Ragweed - Bur (Ambrosia grayi), Ragweed - Western (Ambrosia psilostachya), Rush Skeletonweed (Chondrilla juncea), Sericea Lespedeza (Lespedeza cuneata), Silverleaf Nightshade (Solanum elaeagnifoilum), Spiny Aster (Mexican Devil-Weed; Wolf Weed) (Chloracantha spinosa), Spurge - Leafy (Euphorbia esula L. Perennial), St. Johnswort (Hypericum perforatum), Sulfur cinquefoil (Potentilla recta), Tansy - Common (Tanacetum vulgare), Thistle - Bull (Cirsium vlugare), Thistle - Canada (Cirsium arvense), Thistle - Musk (Carduus nutans), Thistle - Plumeless (Carduus acanthoides), Thistle - Scotch (Onopordum acanthium), Wild Carrot (Daucus carota), Wild Licorice (Glycyrrhiza lepidota), Yankee weed (Rosin Weed) (Eupatorium compositifolium), and Yellow Toadflax (Linaria vlugaris); (e) woody plants/brush, including, without limitation: Blackberry (Rosaceae family), Blackbrush (Rosaceae family), Bluewood (Brazil) (Rhamnaceae family), Buckbrush (Rhamnaceae family), Catclaw Acacia (Fabaceae family), Cenizo (Melastomataceae family), Chinese Tallowtree (Euphorbiaceae family), Chokecherry, Creosotebush (Zygophyllaceae family), Eastern Cottonwood (Salicaceae family), Eastern Persimmon (Ebenaceae family), Eastern Redcedar (Cupressaceae family), Green Ash (Oleaceae family), Guajillo (Fabaceae family), Hawthorn (Rosaceae family), Hedge (Bois d'Arc, Osage Orange) (Moraceae family), Hickory— Bitternut (Juglandaceae family), Hickory— Black (Juglandaceae family), Honey Locust (Fabaceae family), Huisache, Juniper— Blueberry (Ashe) (Cupressaceae family), Juniper— Redberry (Cupressaceae family), Live Oak (Fagaceae family), Lotebush (Rhamnaceae family), Louisiana Wormwood (Artemisia ludoviciana), Macartney Rose (Rosaceae family), Mesquite— Honey (glandulosa) (Fabaceae family), Mesquite— Western Honey (torreyana) (Fabaceae family), Multiflora Rose (Rosaceae family), Oak— Blackjack (Fagaceae family), Oak— Poison (Anacardiaceae family), Oak— Post (Fagaceae family), Oak- Sand Shinnery (Fagaceae family), Pinyon Pine (Pinaceae family), Picea rubens (red spruce), Pinus clausa (sand pine), Pinus echinata (shortleaf pine), Pinus elliottii (slash pine), Pinus palustris (longleaf pine), Pinus pungens (Table Mountain pine), Pinus rigida (pitch pine), Pinus strobus (eastern white pine), Pinus taeda (loblolly pine), Pinus virginiana (Virginia pine), Poison Ivy (Anacardiaceae family), Prairie Wild Rose (Rosaceae family), Prickly Ash (Rutaceae family), Privet (Oleaceae family), Rabbitbrush (Douglas) (Asteraceae family), Red Mulberry (Moraceae family), Running Live Oak (Fagaceae family), Russian Olive (Elaeagnaceae family), Sagebrush (Asteraceae family), Saltcedar (Tamaricaceae family), Sand Sage (Asteraceae family), Shagbark Hickory (Juglandaceae family), Siberian Elm (Ulmaceae family), Skunkbrush (Anacardiaceae family), Smooth Sumac (Anacardiaceae family), Spiny Hackberry (Granjeno) (Ulmaceae family), Sweetgum (Hamamelidaceae family), Texas Persimmon (Ebenaceae family), Twisted Acacia (Fabaceae family), Western Snowberry (Caprifoliaceae family), Wild Plum (Rosaceae family), Willow Baccharis (Asteraceae family), Winged Elm (Ulmaceae family), and Yaupon (Aquifoliaceae family).

[00136] Compositions of the present disclosure have the further advantage in application to ground areas or other loci containing unwanted vegetation that they are pesticidal to pests such as fire ants, so that such pests can be removed from the loci containing unwanted vegetation contemporaneously with the herbicidal treatment of the unwanted vegetation.

[00137] Compositions of the present disclosure display insect and arthropod repellency characteristics, and may be usefully applied to human skin, clothing, and animals to provide protection from insects and arthropods.

[00138] The features and advantages of the disclosure are more fully shown with regard to the following illustrative examples, wherein all parts and percentages are by weight, unless otherwise expressly stated.

[00139] EXAMPLE 1

[00140] A selective herbicidal composition concentrate, Formula A, was prepared, comprising the ingredients in the amounts set out below.

[00141] Formula A: Selective Herbicide Concentrate Formula

Soy Methyl Ester 20.0%

Capric Acid 10.0%

Capryllic Acid 10.0%

Laurie Acid 5.0% Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, 3.0 %

(Standapol WAQ-LC, BASF CAS 68585-47-7)

Glycerol Monostearate 0.3%

Potassium Oleate 0.3%

Glycerin 0.4%

Water 51.0%

[00142] A trial of the diluted herbicidal formulation based on Formula A was then conducted, as described below.

[00143] Trial with Selective Herbicidal Formulation (Formula A Concentrate Diluted at a Ratio of 2 Gallons Formula A Concentrate/50 Gallons Water)

[00144] Two gallons of the selective herbicide concentrate of Formula A were mixed with 50 gallons of water into a 55 gallon tractor sprayer with sprayers extended to each side to cover ground to the width of the tractor with consistent spray. Temperature at the time of application was 91°F with partly cloudy sky. Spraying of 3 acres using the entire 52 gallons of mix was completed at 1 1 :30 AM. Within 4 hours, the Greenbrier and sowthistle, spiny weeds were browning and tops turning over. Within one week, the briers and thistle weeds were dead and the grass was green and continued to grow healthy.

[00145] Trial with Selective Herbicidal Formulation (Formula A Concentrate Diluted at a Ratio of 2 gallons Formula A Concentrate/28 Gallons Water

[00146] Two gallons of selective herbicide concentrate of Formula A were mixed with 28 gallons of water into a 55 gallon tractor sprayer with sprayers extended to each side to cover the ground to the width of the tractor with consistent spray. Temperature was 91°F with partly cloudy sky. Spraying of 1.5 acres using the entire 30 gallons of mix was completed by 1 1 :30 AM. Within 1 day, the briers, thistles, dogfennel, horseweed, ragweed, ironweed, horsenettle and prickly burweed were burned down and within 3 days they were dead. The grass was burned down slightly within 1 day but was green by 1 week and continued to grow.

[00147] EXAMPLE 2

[00148] A natural selective herbicidal composition of a ready to use formulation, Formula B, was prepared, comprising the ingredients in the amounts set out below.

[00149] Formula B: Natural Selective Herbicide Ready to Use Formula

Soy Methyl Ester 5.0%

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, 4.0 %

(Standapol WAQ-LC, BASF CAS 68585-47-7)

Laurie Acid 2.0% Glycerin 5.0%

Potassium Oleate 4.0%

Glycerol Monostearate 3.0%

Water 77.0%

[00150] One gallon of the selective herbicide of Formula B was sprayed directly on an area with briars, thistles and fescue grass and shrubs and trees. Temperature was 91°F. Within 1 day, the briars and thistles started to discolor and by 1 week they were dead. There was no difference seen in the other vegetation and the grasses and other vegetation stayed green and thriving.

[00151] EXAMPLE 3

[00152] A total vegetation kill herbicidal composition with rainproof characteristics, Formula C, was prepared, comprising the ingredients in the amounts set out below.

[00153] Formula C: Total Vegetation Kill with rainproof characteristics, Ready To Use

Formula

Soy Methyl Ester 30.0%

Capric Acid 5.0%

Capryllic Acid 5.0%

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, 4.0 %

(Standapol WAQ-LC, BASF CAS 68585-47-7)

Laurie Acid 1.0%

Peg40 Castor Oil 1.0%

Polysorbate 20 0.9%

Potassium Oleate 0.2%

Sodium Bicarbonate 0.3%

Glycerol Monostearate 0.2%

Citric Acid 0.2%

Glycerin 0.1%

Sodium Benzoate 0.1 %

Water 52.0%

[00154] Three gallons of Formula C in a backpack sprayer were directly applied on Johnson grass, fescue grass, crabgrass, woody bush and tree. Temperature was 87°F and overcast with rain 30 minutes after spraying was completed. The rain lasted for 30 minutes, and the remainder of the day was overcast. The following day was overcast, with intense rain storms lasting more than 4 hours, however, the sprayed vegetation was dark in color. The vegetation areas that had been sprayed continued to die over the next two days, and no regrowth was seen for 14 days when the treated area was last monitored.

[00155] EXAMPLE 4

[00156] A natural vegetation kill herbicidal concentrate composition, Formula D, was prepared, comprising the ingredients in the amounts set out below.

[00157] Formula D: Natural Vegetation Kill Concentrate (kills grass at 8oz/gallon water dilution and woody brush at 16oz/gallon water dilution)

Soy Methyl Ester 47.0%

C ₆ , C ₈ , Cio, Ci ₂ fatty acid mixture, 47.0%

(LC-810L, Peter Cremer CAS 67762-36-1)

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, 6.0 %

(Standapol WAQ-LC, BASF CAS 68585-47-7)

[00158] Grass Trial with 8oz Formula D Concentrate Diluted with Water to 1 Gallon Total

[00159] Using a hand-held pump-up sprayer, a 100 square foot section of crabgrass was wetted with 25oz of the diluted mixture. In addition, a 100 square feet section of Bermuda grass was wetted consistently with 50 oz of the diluted mixture. Brown-in was observed within 1 hour and total kill in 1 day for both grass sections. There was no regrowth within 14 days.

[00160] Woody Brush Area with 16oz Formula D Concentrate Diluted with Water to 1 Gallon Ratio

[00161] The woody brush area contained wild blackberry briers, greenbriers, thistles, bushes, small trees, grasses, and weeds and vines, specifically including blackberry (Rubus pensilvanicu), musk thistle (Carduus nutans L.), poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellate), pokeberry (Phytolacca sp), sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciflua), pine tree (Pinus palustris), Johnson grass (Sorghum halepense), tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima), Japanese stilt grass (Microstegium vimineum), ragweed (Ambrosia), and Greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia L). A hilly area of 2000 square feet was sprayed using 4 gallons of diluted product (64oz of Formula D concentrate to 448 oz of water) in a hand-held pump-up sprayer, and vegetation was wetted with 4 gallons of the diluted mixture. The product was applied at 5PM with little sun and temperature of 88°F. After 15 hours, on the next morning, significant brown-in was observed throughout all the vegetation and by 24 hours total kill was observed. There was no regrowth within 28 days.

[00162] EXAMPLE 5

[00163] A natural aquatic herbicidal composition, Formula E, was prepared, comprising the ingredients in the amounts set out below. [00164] Formula E: Natural Aquatic Herbicide test in and around Pond

Soy Methyl Ester 41.0%

C ₆ , C ₈ , Cio, Ci ₂ fatty acid mixture, 41.0%

(LC-810L, Peter Cremer CAS 67762-36-1)

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, 4.5 %

(Standapol WAQ-LC, BASF CAS 68585-47-7)

Glycerin 1%

Enzymes:

Pancreatic Amylase 2.5%

Lipase, Fungal 2.5%

Cellulase 2.5%

Subtilisin (proteolytic enzyme) 2.5%

Bacteria, Complex 2.5%

(with Amylase and Proteinase CAS 068920-42-3)

[00165] One gallon of Formula E was broadcasted toward the center of a pond with a heavy algae growth covering the top of the ½ acre pond. 1.5 gallons of Formula E was sprayed with a pump-up hand-sprayer around the pond on pond weeds, grasses, tree saplings (including 4 feet pine trees and 3 feet cedar trees, among other varieties of bushes and trees at the edge of the pond). All vegetation was dead in 1 day. The algae turned white in one day and started dropping to the bottom of the pond in 2 days. In one week, the algae was cleared and no regrowth of vegetation occurred around the pond. There was no evidence of fish, birds or frogs killed, and fish, birds and frogs continued to inhabit the pond.

[00166] The efficacy of the herbicidal compositions of the present disclosure are shown with reference to the accompanying figures hereof.

[00167] FIG. 1 is a photograph of a woody brush area, prior to any treatment.

[00168] FIG. 2 is a photograph of the woody brush area of FIG. 1, one day after treatment of such area with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[00169] FIG. 3 is a photograph of the woody brush area of FIG. 1, one week after treatment of such area with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[00170] FIG. 4 is a photograph of a woody tree, prior to any treatment.

[00171] FIG. 5 is a photograph of the woody tree of FIG. 4, one day after treatment of such tree with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[00172] FIG. 6 is a photograph of the woody tree of FIG. 4, one week after treatment of such tree with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure. [00173] FIG. 7 is a photograph of Johnson grass, prior to any treatment.

[00174] FIG. 8 is a photograph of the Johnson grass of FIG. 7, one day after treatment with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[00175] FIG. 9 is a photograph of the Johnson grass of FIG. 7, one week after treatment with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[00176] FIG. 10 is a photograph of crabgrass, prior to any treatment.

[00177] FIG. 1 1 is a photograph of the crabgrass shown in FIG. 10, one day after treatment with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[00178] FIG. 12 is a photograph of the crabgrass shown in FIG. 10, one week after treatment with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[00179] FIG. 13 is a photograph of thistle weed, prior to any treatment.

[00180] FIG. 14 is a photograph of the thistle weed shown in FIG. 13, one day after treatment with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[00181] FIG. 15 is a photograph of the thistle weed shown in FIG. 13, one week after treatment with a herbicidal composition of the present disclosure.

[00182] FIGS. 16-24 are compiled photographs illustrating the treatment of various target vegetation with the Formula F composition of the disclosure, as applied with a 100 gallons per application spray wand applicator.

[00183] FIGS. 25 is a composite of before and after photographs illustrating the treatment of small briars with the Formulation G composition of the disclosure.

[00184] FIG. 26 is a composite of before and after photographs illustrating the treatment of large briars, ivy, and weeds with the Formulation H composition of the disclosure.

[00185] FIG. 27 is a composite of before and after photographs illustrating the treatment of grass with the Formulation H composition of the disclosure.

[00186] While the disclosure has been set forth herein in reference to specific aspects, features and illustrative embodiments, it will be appreciated that the utility of the disclosure is not thus limited, but rather extends to and encompasses numerous other variations, modifications and alternative embodiments, as will suggest themselves to those of ordinary skill in the field of the present disclosure, based on the description herein. Correspondingly, the disclosure as hereinafter claimed is intended to be broadly construed and interpreted, as including all such variations, modifications and alternative embodiments, within its spirit and scope.