TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention pertains to the technical field of loading, transportation, off-loading and storage of agrochemical products. The invention is of particular importance for use in a formulation plant of agrochemical products as it provides a safer, more reliable and economic method for discharging agrochemical products from transport containers.

BACKGROUND

Bulk transport of liquid agrochemicals is often conducted in dedicated bulk transport containers such as cisterns. The dedicated transport is advantageous for avoiding product contamination. However, it weighs heavily on transportation costs as cisterns need to be cleaned after use before they can be re-used for another transport. End user or intermediate storage facilities are often not equipped with cleaning facilities for cisterns. It is therefore required that an empty truck drives to a cleaning facility before it can pick up a next cargo. These costs weigh heavily, especially on the price of commodity agrochemicals.

The liquid product that is delivered to a formulation plant for agrochemicals needs storage before use. It is important that the off-loading and storage of these often hazardous chemicals proceeds safely and cost-effectively.

It is common practice to store liquid agrochemical formulations in a variety of storage vessels. Access to such tanks is usually gained through shut-off valves mounted on the tanks. Piping or hoses connected to the valve connections provide the means to allow transport of the fluids to their destinations. The valves on the tank systems are routinely located in a convenient position, to allow ease of usage and accessibility for the user. However, placement of the valves also makes them easily accessible to unauthorized users of the tanks and misuse by individuals who may accidentally open a wrong valve, thus inadvertently releasing the content of a supply delivery into a wrong storage tank.

It is the objective of the invention to provide a solution to at least one of the problems mentioned above. In particular, the invention aims to provide an improved method for discharging agrochemical products from transport containers SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect the invention hereto provides an improved method for discharging a liquid agrochemical formulation or agrochemical formulation auxiliary, comprising the steps:

a) receiving a liquid agrochemical formulation or agrochemical formulation auxiliary loaded into a transport container configured for storage, transport and discharging of a liquids,

b) at least partially discharging the product from the product-loaded transport container, wherein the discharging comprises:

- selectively connecting a storage tank to the product-loaded container using a conduit adapted to communicate with said storage tank and said product-loaded container to discharge the material contained therein, and

- at least partially discharging said liquid from said container into said selected storage tank,

characterized in that, said selectively connecting of storage tank and product for discharging is steered by a Human Machine Interface (HMI) system, wherein the steering comprises:

-in said HMI system selecting a storage tank and conduit connectable to said storage tank suitable for receipt of said liquid product, and

-upon approval releasing a key for opening a corresponding key-lock, said key-lock is preventing access to a valve provided at the end of the conduit opposite the storage tank, and opening of the corresponding key-lock using the key thereby gaining access to the valve and opening the valve;

-upon unsuitable selection denying access to a key.

This method is advantageous as it provides increased safety for the handling of agrochemicals.

Examples of auxiliary materials are surfactants, anti-foam agents, anti-freeze agents, wetting agents, colouring agents, emulsifiers, thickeners, solvents.

The method is advantageously used for the storage, transportation and handling of propamocarb formulations.

The term Human Machine Interface (HMI) system as used herein refers to a user interface in a manufacturing and process control system. It provides a graphics- based visualization of an industrial control and monitoring system. Previously called an "MMI" (man machine interface), an HMI typically resides in an office- based Windows computer that communicates with a specialized computer in the plant such as a programmable automation controller (PAC), programmable logic controller (PLC) or distributed control system (DCS). The HMI system presents the information to the operating personnel graphically, in the form of a mimic diagram. This means that the operator can see a schematic representation of the plant being controlled. For example, a picture of a pump connected to a pipe can show the operator that the pump is running and how much fluid it is pumping through the pipe at the moment. The operator can then switch the pump off. The HMI software will show the flow rate of the fluid in the pipe decrease in real time. Mimic diagrams may consist of line graphics and schematic symbols to represent process elements, or may consist of digital photographs of the process equipment overlain with animated symbols.

The term "propamocarb" as used herein refers to a compound belonging to the chemical family of carbamates. The IUPAC name of propamocarb is propyl [3- (dimethylamino)propyl]carbamate. CAS number 24579-73-5 was assigned to propamocarb. Its chemical structure is shown in formula (I).

Advantageously, propamocarb is used as its hydrochloric salt. This has the CAS number 25606-41-1.

Unless specifically mentioned, the term "propamocarb" as used herein, refers to propamocarb as such and to its salts.

In a second aspect the invention provides a liquid agrochemical formulation obtained by a method according to an embodiment of the invention, comprising 722 g/l propamocarb. HCI or 600 g/l propamocarb. Highly concentrated propamocarb formulations can advantageously be handled by a method according to the invention. An end-product results that is cheaper as savings can be realized in the storage, handling and transportation of the active ingredient.

In a third aspect the invention provides a flexible bag disposable within a container for transport and storage of liquid, and configured for storage and transportation of a liquid agrochemical formulation; comprising 722 g/l propamocarb. HCI or 600 g/l propamocarb.

In the prior art, transport of these highly concentrated propamocarb solutions is by cistern. After the product is removed from the container, it is returned empty. A cleaning operation is required before it can be re-used. This makes transport time- consuming and thus expensive. Propamocarb. HCI is not compatible with a metal tank. Packaging in a flexitank, made of plastic provides an interesting alternative.

The advantage of using a flexible walled container is that after unloading the container can be folded together and be removed from the shipping container. This leaves a non-contaminated shipping container and hence there is no need to get the shipping container cleaned before the container can be used again. This compared to the classic bulk transport of chemicals and pesticidal active ingredients, where bulk is transported in a tank. After unloading the tank needs to be cleaned before other substances can be transported in the tank. The empty but contaminated tank needs to travel to a facility to clean the tank. This results in extra mileage added to the transport to drive to the cleaning facilities, extra time required from the truck driver, extra cost related to the cleaning of the tank and that the tank is out of service until the tank is cleaned.

The flexible bag container is preferably removed from the shipping container after unloading and it can be recycled, landfilled or burned.

The inventor found that a highly concentrated propamocarb solution can be safely packaged and transported in a flexi-tank type of packaging configured configured for storage and transportation of a liquid agrochemical formulation. In a fourth aspect the invention provides a kit of parts for storing, transporting and discharging a liquid agrochemical formulation or agrochemical formulation auxiliary, the kit comprising : a) a container configured for storage, transport and discharging of a liquid agrochemical formulation or agrochemical formulation auxiliary comprising at least a product inlet, and at least a product outlet, positionable inside of a transportation means;

b) first and second conduits connectable to said product inlet and product outlet, the first conduit for routing a fluid into said container, the second conduit for routing at least part of the product out of said container during discharging;

c) means for selectively allowing or denying access to a storage tank for discharging of said formulation from said container at an end user or intermediate storage facility,

characterized in that said means comprise: a Human Machine Interface (HMI) system configured for selecting a storage, a third conduit connected to said storage tank suitable for receipt of said liquid product and provided at its end opposite said storage tank with a valve configured to hold a key-lock, and a key and corresponding key-lock for providing selective access to said valve.

The kit of parts can be advantageously used in a method according to the invention.

In a final aspect a use is provided of a flexible bag provided inside of a transportation means for storing and transporting a liquid agrochemical formulation or agrochemical formulation auxiliary. DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention.

FIG. 2 is an elevation view illustrating a method for off-loading an agrochemical liquid from a tank trailer into a storage container with HMI controlled key-lock system of the valves connecting the trailer to the storage container.

FIG. 3 is an exploded schematic perspective views of a shipping container systems suitable for use in the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in disclosing the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. By means of further guidance, term definitions are included to better appreciate the teaching of the present invention.

The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within that range, as well as the recited endpoints.

In a first aspect the invention provides an improved method for discharging and storing a liquid agrochemical formulation or agrochemical formulation auxiliary, comprising the steps :

a) receiving a liquid agrochemical formulation or agrochemical formulation auxiliary loaded into a transport container configured for storage, transport and discharging of a liquids,

b) at least partially discharging the product from the product-loaded transport container, wherein the discharging comprises:

- selectively connecting a storage tank to the product-loaded container using a conduit adapted to communicate with said storage tank and said product-loaded container to discharge the material contained therein, and

- at least partially discharging said liquid from said container into said selected storage tank,

characterized in that, said selectively connecting of storage tank and product for discharging is steered by a Human Machine Interface (HMI)system, wherein the steering comprises :

-in said H MI system selecting a storage tank and conduit connectable to said storage tank suitable for receipt of said liquid product,

-upon approval releasing a key for opening a corresponding key-lock, said key-lock is preventing access to a valve provided at the end of the conduit opposite the storage tank, and opening of the corresponding key-lock using the key thereby gaining access to the valve and opening the valve,

-upon unsuitable selection denying access to a key. In a preferred embodiment, a method comprises the steps :

Al) loading a liquid product into a container configured for storage, transport and discharging of a liquid agrochemical formulation or agrochemical formulation auxiliary, the container positioned inside of or on a transportation means, A2) transporting the product-loaded container to an end user or intermediate storage facility using the transportation means;

b) at least partially discharging the product from the product-loaded container, wherein the discharging comprises:

- selectively connecting a storage tank to the product-loaded container using a conduit adapted to communicate with said storage tank and said product- loaded container to discharge the material contained therein, and

- at least partially discharging said liquid from said container into said selected storage tank,

characterized in that, said selectively connecting of storage tank and product for discharging is steered by a Human Machine Interface (HMI) system, wherein the steering comprises:

-in said HMI system selecting a storage tank and conduit connectable to said storage tank suitable for receipt of said liquid product,

-upon approval releasing a key for opening a corresponding key-lock, said key-lock is preventing access to a valve provided at the end of the conduit opposite the storage tank, and opening of the corresponding key-lock using the key thereby gaining access to the valve and opening the valve,

-upon unsuitable selection denying access to a key.

This method is advantageous as it provides increase safety for the handling of agrochemicals.

By the term "a container configured for storage, transport and discharging of a liquid agrochemical formulation or agrochemical formulation auxiliary" as used herein, is meant, a shipping container suitable for storing, moving and off-loading chemicals. Examples of suitable containers for use in the invention are cisterns and flexi-tanks. It follows that the container is inert towards the load, i.e. a liquid agrochemical formulation or agrochemical formulation auxiliary.

In a preferred embodiment of a method according to the invention, said conduit is connected to said product-loaded container using a flexible hose provided on either side with quick-connect connectors. Use of this type of connectors further contributes to the reduction of time required for unloading the transport container. In a preferred embodiment of a method according to the invention, the container is a flexible bag and said transportation means is a shipping container. The flexible bag is positioned inside the shipping container. A method according to an embodiment of the invention using a flexible bag has the advantage that an efficient and safe transport system is provided, requiring a minimum movement of empty contaminated tanks or empty contaminated shipping containers. This makes the production of the pesticidal composition and the pesticidal composition itself more environmentally friendly. The total amount of CO ₂ emission will be cut, and fewer resources will be required during production.

Any rigid "transport container" referenced herein is intended to include both a shipping container and truck trailer container. That is, the shipping container and the truck trailer container each qualify as a "container" as defined above. For example, each of them has a structure with the dimensions referenced above. The term shipping container (also called a "cargo container") is well-known to persons involved in the shipping industry. The shipping container is capable of being used to ship (transport) large quantities of cargo over long distances, typically over water, on ships or barges, or over land on railway cars. A truck trailer container, on the other hand, is a container that also includes a chassis, and wheels, and a structure for attaching chassis to any truck having a diesel engine.

As used herein, the term "shipping container" is defined as any rigid, metal boxlike structure having two opposing vertically disposed side walls that have a length of at least 10 feet and preferably up to 60 feet; a height of at least 6 feet and preferably up to 12 feet; and a width (corresponding generally to the space between the two opposing side walls) of at least 6 feet and preferably up to 12 feet. The container also has a floor that has substantially the same length as the two side walls, and one end wall that is disposed between the side walls at the end of the container, which shall be referred to herein as the "rear wall" (also called the "closed end wall," or the "closed end" or the "end wall") of the container. The container also has an end opposite the closed end, which end shall be referred to herein as the "front end" or "open end" of the container. The container has one or more doors, which are flat members positioned at or proximate the open end that are capable of swinging open or closed.

At least one embodiment of the container also has a top member, or "lid," which is used to secure the flexitank inside the container during transportation (shipping). Preferably, the lid is formed of a grating with bars that are formed in crisscross arrangement. Each of the side walls, and the rear wall, has an inside (inner) surface, and an outside (outer) surface. As illustrated in certain drawings herein, each container has an overall inside surface, which is irregular or corrugated (sometimes referred to as having "lazy" corrugations) but is nevertheless considered "substantially planar" as that term is used herein.

As discussed in greater detail below, the overall surface of each of the rigid container walls has sub-surfaces (on the inside and outside of the container), which are discussed in greater detail herein and are also themselves referred to as "surfaces."

Also, for clarification, when reference is made herein to any container that has flexible walls, that container will be referred to either as a flexitank or a "flexible container," or in certain instances that container will be referred to as a "sleeve."

As used herein, a "flexitank" is defined as any flexible structure that includes a flexible container having a length and width, inner surface(s), outer surface(s), an interior (inside) capable of holding liquids or flowable solids, and one or more openings through which fluid is capable of passing into or from the inside of the flexitank.

There are many different sizes and types (embodiments) of flexitanks, e.g., different categories and/or subcategories of flexitanks. For example, different types of flexitanks may have or include different sizes, shapes, materials and components (e.g., fixtures and/or hardware, including fittings). Thus, unless specified otherwise, or unless apparent from the context, all references herein to a "flexitank" encompass any and all of the many different types of flexitanks. The flexible container component of the flexitank can be, for example, a single-layered bag or a multi-layered bag. The flexible container can also be a combination of bags or layers or liners in which one or more bags or layers or liners are disposed inside of one or more other bags or layers or liners (discussed below). Alternatively, the flexible container can be a laminated bag, comprising different layers laminated together. As discussed herein, the inner surface of the flexitank defines the inside of the flexible container (e.g., an inner cavity). Unless specified otherwise, in an embodiment of the flexitank in which one or more bags are disposed inside of one or more other bags, the "outer surface" of the flexitank refers to the outermost surface of the outermost bag or layer, while the "inner surface" of the flexitank refers to the innermost surface of the innermost bag or layer, which surface is designed for, or capable of, contact with the cargo, e.g ., the liquid or flowable solids that are being contained or held by the flexitank. Thus, for example, a multi-layer flexitank may have one or more intermediate layer(s) that is/are sandwiched between 2 other layers, which intermediate layer(s) provide(s) neither an outer flexitank surface nor an inner flexitank surface. The outer surface of the flexitank defines the outside of the flexible container. The flexitank is necessarily capable of holding (containing) any of a variety of flowable materials, such as any liquid (such as wine), or a slurry.

A particular flexitank may be in a filled (partially filled, substantially filled, or totally filled) state (condition), for example, if liquid occupies the inside of the flexitank. Alternatively, the flexitank can be in an empty (unfilled) state (condition). As discussed below, the flexitank includes not only the flexible part (e.g., the bags) but also at least one opening. The flexitank that includes separate independent layers preferably also includes at least a fitting corresponding to at least one opening, which fitting can include one or more flanges or any mechanical fitting that clamps the layers together around the opening. The flexitank is preferably "elongated" which, as used herein, means that the flexitank has a length and a width, with sides that define the length (e.g., opposing sides) that are longer than the ends (e.g., opposing ends) which define the width.

When the flexitank is empty and is lying flat on the ground or other horizontal surface (e.g., the inside floor of a rigid shipping container), the flexitank is preferably rectangular. In the rectangular embodiment, the two length-wise sides of the rectangle are parallel to one another; and the two ends of the rectangle are also parallel to one another. When the flexitank is filled (substantially or totally), it has a length and a width, and also has a height. When the flexitank is filled, it preferably has an oblong shape. For example, a flexitank that is substantially or totally filled can be pillow-shaped, as illustrated in certain drawings herein.

The flexitank has an overall size, including all its dimensions, such that it is capable of fitting into a rigid shipping container, both in an empty state and in a filled state. For example, a flexitank can have a length of from 5, or 15, or 20 feet, to 30, or 50, or 60 feet. That flexitank can have a width of from 3, or 4, or 5 feet to 6, or 8, or 12 feet. The flexitank can have a height (when filled) of from 1, or 2, or 3 feet to 4, or 7, or 10 feet. The flexitanks have dimensions (length, width and height such that, in both an empty and filled condition, they can fit inside of whatever rigid container they are used with.

They can have a volumetric capacity ranging anywhere from 5,000 liters to 30,000 liters. The flexitank can have a plurality of different components, including the bags or sheets of which the flexible container is made. For example, as noted above, certain flexitanks include a combination of bags (sometimes also referred to as "bladders"), in which bags are disposed within other bags. The flexitank may also have one or more openings (apertures) in the flexible material itself by which liquid can be introduced to, or discharged from, the inside of the flexitank. Examples of such openings include an input opening, a discharge opening and/or a vent opening. Other components are structures associated with each of the openings such as, for example: a discharge valve with a handle that is capable of being rotated from a closed position to an open position; a fitting for the discharge valve that may include one or more flanges; a vent line associated with a vent opening for releasing air from the inside of the flexitank; and a fitting for the vent line that may include one or more flanges. Use of a flexi-tank type container, such as a rhino bag or jumbo bag, instead of cistern, is advantageous to reduce the costs of transportation.

In a preferred embodiment shipping container provided inside with a flexible bag further comprises a two-piece steel bulkhead; preferably said bulkhead is equipped with a valve connected to the content of said flexible bag. The bulkhead assures a good fit to a hose that can be used for loading and unloading. A secure fitting of the hose is necessary to avoid spillage.

At least one specific embodiment of shipping container system includes a rigid shipping container, a flexitank disposed within the rigid shipping container; and a bulkhead assembly that includes one or more of the novel features discussed below or elsewhere herein. For example, at least one specific embodiment of a shipping container system comprises a rigid shipping container having at least a floor, a first side wall with a first side wall inner surface, a second side wall with a second side wall inner surface, a rear wall having a rear wall inner surface and an open end; a flexitank disposed within the rigid shipping container, in the space between the two side walls; and a bulkhead assembly comprising two braces and at least one bulkhead panel that is horizontally disposed between the side walls of the container. The bulkhead assembly is interposed between the flexitank and the open end of the rigid shipping container, or the doors (when the doors are in a closed position). As discussed elsewhere herein, certain specific embodiments of the shipping container system include only a single bulkhead assembly, which can be (for example) a front-end bulkhead assembly, or an intermediate bulkhead assembly. Other specific embodiments of the shipping container system include both a front- end bulkhead assembly and an intermediate bulkhead assembly.

A front-end bulkhead assembly can be any bulkhead assembly positioned proximate the container doors that include a structural member (e.g., a bolt or support box or support wedge) disposed within the lashing channel. In certain embodiments, the front-end bulkhead assembly includes at least one horizontal bulkhead panel and at least two braces, as defined elsewhere herein, which may be braces that include vertical channels for receiving an outer edge of the bulkhead panel. Other specific embodiments of the front-end bulkhead assembly are discussed below, and elsewhere herein, including the drawings. The single bulkhead assembly can also be an intermediate bulkhead assembly that is positioned on the inside of the rigid container at an intermediate point (location) in the rigid container. As noted above, any bulkhead assembly referenced herein includes at least one bulkhead panel disposed horizontally between the two side walls of the rigid container. The intermediate bulkhead assembly is disposed between two "intermediate" points (locations) on the opposing side walls of the rigid container. The term "intermediate" in that context means any location along the rigid container side walls that is from 30% to 70% of the total distance from the rear wall of the rigid container to the front end. In certain embodiments an intermediate point is a midway point between the rear wall of the container and the front end, which would be 50% of the total distance.

More preferably, the flexible bag is prevented or deterred from collapsing during discharging. In a preferred embodiment of a method according to the invention, said flexible bag is disposed after off-loading. Removal of the flexible bag from the transportation means has the advantage that the transportation means is free again, requires no cleaning, and is available for transportation of another cargo. In a preferred embodiment of a method according to the invention, said flexible bag is made from an opaque material.

This has for effect that the level of filling can be visible. This has the advantage that visual inspection can be carried out while loading and unloading of the plastic flexible bag. The visual inspection can avoid overfilling the plastic shipping container flexible bag or can detect when the unfolding during filling goes wrong.

In a preferred embodiment said flexible bag is dimensionally stable up to 60 °C. By the term "dimensionally stable" as used herein, is meant that shape or strength are not lost up to a temperature of 60 °C.

This has the advantage that viscous liquids can be heated up to 60 °C to lower the viscosity of the liquid to speed up to loading and unloading.

In a preferred embodiment of a method according to the invention, the flexible bag is substantially seamless. This has for effect that there is less risk of leaks.

The discharge equipment needed to off-load a liquid from a bulk liquid tank o flexible bag is typically located on the transport vehicle, e.g. truck. The discharge equipment is located on the transport vehicle so as to be conveniently and permanently coupled to the power take-off of the transport vehicle. The discharge equipment commonly used to pump a liquid from a tank into a storage container includes a power take-off operatively coupled to the transmission of the transport vehicle, a drive shaft operatively coupled to the power take-off, and a liquid pump operatively coupled to the drive shaft. The liquid pump is connected by liquid conduits that extend between the transport vehicle and the liquid pump, and between the liquid pump and the storage container. The discharge equipment commonly used to pressurize a bulk liquid tank and to off-load a liquid directly into a storage container includes a power take-off operatively coupled to the transmission of the transport vehicle, a drive shaft operatively coupled to the power transmission take-off, and an oil-free or oil-lubricated compressor operatively coupled to the drive shaft. As previously described, the compressor is connected by a pneumatic line that extends between the compressor and the tank trailer, and a liquid conduit that extends between the tank trailer and the storage container. In a preferred embodiment of a method according to the invention, the product discharging is assisted by compressed air provided by a pump controlled by the H uman Machine Interface (HMI). Use of a pump that is under the control of the H MI system is beneficial for obtaining increased safety of the operations. In a preferred embodiment of a method according to the invention, the agrochemical formulation is in the form of a soluble concentrate (SL).The use of this type of content is advantageous as the amount of water is kept to a minimum .

More preferably the soluble concentrate is 722 g/l propamocarb or 600 g/l propamocarb. Most preferably, the concentration of the agrochemical formulation in the product-loaded container is measured and if desirable is diluted with water to obtain 722 g/l propamocarb. HCI or 600 g/l propamocarb.

In a preferred embodiment, a process according to the invention further comprises the steps of: transferring a 722 g/l propamocarb. HCI or 600 g/l propamocarb formulation from a storage tank to a packaging line, filling said formulation into end-user packaging .

In a second aspect the invention provides a liquid agrochemical formulation obtained by a method according to an embodiment of the invention, comprising 722 g/l propamocarb. HCI or 600 g/l propamocarb.

H ighly concentrated propamocarb formulations can advantageously be obtained by a method according to the invention. A product results that is cheaper in manufacturing and operation cost.

In a preferred embodiment said propamocarb formulation is used in the treatment of damping-off, in particular caused by Pythium species, especially Pythium aphanidermatum, Aphanomyces species and Phytophtora species, preferably on crops selected from the list of lettuce, cucurbits, brassicas, aubergines, courgettes, cucumber, endive, patty pan squash, melons, peppers, tomatoes, potatoes, bulb flowers and horticultural crops. In a preferred embodiment said propamocarb formulation is used in the treatment of downy mildew, late blight and black shank, in particular caused by Bremia lactucae, Pseudoperonospora cubensis, Peronospora species and Phytophtora infestans and Phytophtora nicotianae, preferably on crops selected form the list of lettuce, cucurbits, brassicas, aubergines, courgettes, cucumber, patty pan squash, melons, peppers, tomatoes, potatoes, bulb flowers and horticultural crops.

In a preferred embodiment said propamocarb formulation is used in the treatment of Pythium in ornamentals, tomato, cucumber, gherkin, aubergine, courgette, melon, pepper or chicory.

In a preferred embodiment said propamocarb formulation is used in the treatment of Peronospora in cabbages or cauliflower. Propamocarb was found effective in the treatment of the above mentioned fungicidal diseases. The reduction of its cost of goods because of lowering of the transportation cost makes it economically more viable. This ensures the availability of the product to farmers. In a preferred embodiment propamocarb is applied on lettuce in need of treatment against Bremia lactucae, as follows: -a first application a week after said lettuce is planted, with a maximum of 3 applications with a minimum of 10 days apart. For each application the formulation is preferably applied at a rate of 1.5 litre of said propamocarb formulation per hectare, preferably diluted in 400 to 1500 litre water.

In a preferred embodiment propamocarb is applied on crops in need of treatment against Pythium as follows: a first application after planting or first signs of infection, application via a drip irrigation system and repeated maximum 4 times with a 7 to 15 days interval. Preferably the crop is selected from the list of aubergines, courgettes, cucumbers, melons, squish, peppers and tomatoes grown on artificial substrates. For each application said formulation is preferably applied at a rate of 1-2 litres propamocarb formulation per hectare.

In a preferred embodiment propamocarb is applied on bulb flowers in need of treatment against Pythium as follows: -submerge the bulbs for 20 to 30 min in a 0.3% solution of the formulation before planting. In a preferred embodiment propamocarb is applied for the treatment of Pythium and Phytophtora in potting soil is as follows: - said formulation is diluted in a ratio of 300 ml formulation to 10 litres of water and sprayed on 1 m ³ of potting soil. In a preferred embodiment propamocarb is applied for the treatment of Pythium and Phytophtora in potting soil direct after sowing, cuttings and transplanting is as follows: - the formulation is diluted in a ratio of 5 to 10 ml formulation i.e. 3 to 6 litres of 0,15% solution to treat 1 m ² . The treatment can be repeated after 7-10 days.

In a preferred embodiment propamocarb is applied for the treatment of Pythium and Phytophtora in potting soil during plant growth as follows: -the formulation is diluted in a ratio of 150 ml formulation to 100 litres of water. 100 ml of this dilution is given to a 10-11 cm pot.

Application of the formulated product to the agricultural crop can be by watering, spraying, dipping or admixture to potting soil.

In a third aspect the invention provides a flexible bag disposable within a container for transport and storage of liquid, and configured for storage and transportation of a liquid agrochemical formulation; said bag comprising 722 g/l propamocarb. HCI or 600 g/l propamocarb.

In the prior art, transport of these highly concentrated propamocarb solutions is by cistern. After the product is removed from the container, it is returned empty. A cleaning operation is required before it can be re-used. This makes transport time- consuming and thus expensive.

The inventor found that a highly concentrated propamocarb solution can be safely packaged and transported in a flexi-tank type of packaging configured configured for storage and transportation of a liquid agrochemical formulation.

In a preferred embodiment according to the invention, said flexible bag is made out of plastic material, preferably a polyethylene (PE), preferably low density polyethylene (LDPE), even more preferably linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE). Polyethylene was found to be a compatible packaging material for highly concentrated, liquid propamocarb formulations.

In a preferred embodiment the tensile strength of the plastic is at least 10 MPa, more preferably at least 20 MPa and most preferably at least 30 MPa.

The advantage of a plastic with such tensile strength is that the bag can be constructed out of a single layer of plastic and provides the tensile strength needed to contain and safely transport large volumes of said liquid material.

In a preferred embodiment the flexural modulus of the plastic is less than 0.7 GPa, more preferably less than 0.5 GPa and most preferably less than 0.35 MPa.

The advantage of a plastic with such a flexural modulus is that the material has the needed flexibility to unfold upon filling without the need of extensive forces that can cause rupture of the flexible bag. The flexible bag can be easily folded after unloading and be removed from the shipping container.

In a preferred embodiment said plastic bag is provided to substantially fill a 20" shipping container.

Most trucks are designed to carry one 20" shipping container. By using a flexible bag that can fit a 20" shipping container those containers and truck transports are used most efficiently. By international convention the maximum gross weight of a 20" shipping container is 24.000 kg.

In a preferred embodiment said plastic bag has a volume of 10.000 litres to 24.000 litres. In a fourth aspect the invention provides a kit of parts for storing, transporting and discharging a liquid agrochemical formulation or agrochemical formulation auxiliary, the kit comprising :

a) a container configured for storage, transport and discharging of a liquid agrochemical formulation or agrochemical formulation auxiliary comprising at least a product inlet, and at least a product outlet, positionable inside of a transportation means;

b) first and second conduits connectable to said product inlet and product outlet, the first conduit for routing a fluid into said container, the second conduit for routing at least part of the product out of said container during discharging;

c) means for selectively allowing or denying access to a storage tank for discharging of said formulation from said container at an end user or intermediate storage facility,

characterized in that said means comprise: a Human Machine Interface (HMI) system configured for selecting a storage, a third conduit connected to said storage tank suitable for receipt of said liquid product and provided at its end opposite said storage tank with a valve configured to hold a key-lock, and a key and corresponding key-lock for providing selective access to said valve.

The kit of parts can be advantageously used in a method according to the invention. In a preferred embodiment of a kit according to the invention, said container is a flexible walled bag.

More preferably, the kit further comprises means for deterring collapse of the flexible bag during off-loading of product. In a final aspect a use is provided of a flexible bag provided inside of a transportation means for storing and transporting a liquid agrochemical formulation or agrochemical formulation auxiliary.

The invention is further described by the following non-limiting examples which further illustrate the invention, and are not intended to, nor should they be interpreted to, limit the scope of the invention.

EXAMPLE General schematic of process

Referring to FIG. 1, an embodiment of a method according to the invention is illustrated. An exemplary embodiment comprises a transportation means 10, 11 for a container, such as a truck. On the transportation means is positioned a cistern 13 holding a liquid product. Alternatively, a shipping container 42 holding a liquid filled flexi-tank 12 may be used. The liquid is an agrochemical formulation or an agrochemical formulation auxiliary. Preferably, the method is used for a concentrated liquid, in particular for a propamocarb formulation. The propamocarb formulation can be in the form of a salt, most preferably for a 722 g/l propamocarb.HCI formulation. Alternatively, the preferred formulation is a 600 g/l propamocarb formulation.

The product loaded container 12, 13 is transported to an end user or intermediate storage facility.

At the facility flexible tubing 9 is connected to the container 12, 13 holding the product for off-loading of the product. The product is at least partially discharged from the product-loaded container 12, 13. The discharging process comprises selectively connecting a storage tank 31, 32, 33 to the product-loaded container 12, 13 using a conduit 16, 17, 18 adapted to communicate with said storage tank 31, 32, 33 and said product-loaded container 12, 13 to discharge the material contained therein. The selective connection is steered by a Human Machine Interface (HMI) system 7. In the HMI system 7 a storage tank 31 is selected as well as a conduit 16 connected to a storage tank 31. The suitability of the selection is checked by the HMI system 7 on the basis of data available in the computer program of the HMI system, such as cleaning status, product compatibility, and liquid level of the storage tanks. Upon approval, a key 1 is released . This key can open a corresponding key-lock 1'. The key-lock 1' is positioned on the lever of a valve. In locked position the valve cannot be operated. When the lock is opened and removed, the valve can be placed in a functional position. The valve can receive a flexible tube 9 connected to the flexitank 12 or cistern 13 for receipt of agrochemical product. At least part of the liquid is discharged from said container 12, 13 into said selected storage tank 31.

If an unsuitable selection is made, e.g. volume of liquid to be off-loaded does not fit into the selected storage tank, then access to a key 2, 3 is denied. The operator will not be able to place the valve in a functional position for receipt of product. The key-locks 2', 3' cannot be opened.

Off-loading cistern container

FIG. 2 illustrates an off-loading of liquid L from the tank trailer TT into the storage container SC. An exemplary embodiment comprises mounting a hydraulically driven liquid discharge system 130 at a convenient location on the tractor TR. Alternatively, the hydraulic system 130 could be mounted at a convenient location on the tank trailer TT. However, it is typically more desirable to mount the hydraulic system 130 on the tractor TR so as to shorten and reduce the complexity of the associated hydraulic and pneumatic lines. Furthermore, an advantage is that the hydraulic system 130 is useable with the same or different tank trailers TT for off-loading liquids that can be discharged using a liquid pump, as well as for offloading liquids that could potentially damage the liquid pump. Regardless, it further comprises connecting the hydraulic system 130 in fluid communication with the tank trailer TT by routing a first liquid conduit 112 between a liquid discharge connection LDC, such as a valve or coupling, typically located on the underside of the tank trailer TT, and a liquid intake connection (not shown) provided on the hydraulic system. A method further comprises connecting the hydraulic system 130 in fluid communication with a storage container SC by routing a second liquid conduit 114 between a liquid outtake connection (not shown) provided on the hydraulic system and a liquid intake connection LIC, such as a valve or coupling, provided on the storage container.

A method 110 may further comprise using a liquid pump (not shown) of the hydraulic system 130 to draw the liquid L from the tank trailer TT through the first liquid conduit 112, and to pump the liquid L through the second liquid conduit 114 into the storage container SC.

Preferably, the method 110 is used for off-loading liquids L that will not cause damage to the liquid pump of the hydraulic system 130, such as liquids that are non-corrosive and non-abrasive. Flexible bag container

Referring now to FIG. 3, an embodiment (example) of a shipping container system suitable for use in the present invention is illustrated. The particular shipping container system 210 illustrated in FIG. 3 includes a number of elements, components and/or features, which are discussed below, and are also illustrated in the other drawings. Although not specifically depicted, it is noted that a truck trailer container (discussed above) can also be used instead of the shipping container 212, and a system that includes the truck trailer container along with some or all of the elements, components and/or features as those discussed below (and in the specific embodiments referenced above) is within the possession of the inventor(s). For example, a rigid truck trailer container can be combined with the same vertical braces, retainers and bulkhead panels that are described herein.

System 210 includes a rigid shipping container 212, and has three vertical walls 214, 216, 218, a horizontal floor 220, an open end with doors 222, 224 that are proximate the open end, which swing on hinges (not illustrated) between open and closed (shut) positions, so that the open end of the shipping container can be closed, and the shipping container configured in a closed position. This particular system 210 also includes the particular sleeve 226 that is also depicted in other drawings herein. Sleeve 226 has a flexible, substantially planar member 234 that may also be referred to as a flexible vertical sleeve side wall (panel) 234, which is a flexible wall (panel) extending along the length of the sleeve 226. Sleeve 226 also has another substantially planar member 236, also referred to as a flexible vertical sleeve side wall (panel) 236, which is a flexible wall (panel) extending along the length of the sleeve 226. The sleeve also has a floor 240, which has lengthwise edges that adjoin and correspond to the lengthwise lower edges of the vertical sleeve side walls (panels) 234, 236. The sleeve 226 also has a flexible rear vertical wall (panel) 238 disposed between and perpendicular to the two vertical side walls (panels) 234, 236. The sleeve also has a flexible front vertical wall (panel) 228, which includes a portion 230 that extends above the upper edges of the other three flexible walls (panels) 234, 236, 238, and this portion 230 operates as a flap, and preferably includes straps 242 for securing the flap over the bulkhead assembly (discussed below). The flexible front vertical wall (panel) 228 of the sleeve includes an aperture, through which a portion of the flexitank discharge valve 256 can protrude. The embodiment 210 of the shipping container system also includes a flexitank 254, which has an aperture that includes a discharge valve 256 (depicted in representational illustrative, non-detailed form) and an aperture that includes an air vent 258. It is noted that the air vent can be located in places other than at the top of the flexitank including, for example, a location next to the discharge valve.

Also included in the specific system 210 depicted in FIG. 3 is flexible cargo net 260, which can be secured at a diagonal orientation to secure the flexitank during transportation. Preferably, the cargo net inhibits upward movement of the flexitank within the rigid container 212 when the rigid container is being transported on a ship and experiences severe wave action, causing the flexitank to roll forward and backward and up and down. The flexible cargo net 260 is illustrated in FIG. 3 as part of an unassembled exploded view of the various components of the specific system 210, but it will be recognized that the cargo net is to be placed so that it secures the flexitank, and has, for example, one edge (the lower edge, which is horizontal and closer to the bulkhead assembly) secured proximate either the top of the bulkhead assembly 268 or midway across the inside of the bulkhead assembly, and can optionally be secured on the inside surface of the flexible front vertical sleeve wall 228. The upper edge of the cargo net can be secured by cords (not illustrated), e.g., one cord that ties the cargo net to one of the sides of the rigid container (e.g., inside of side wall 216) and a second cord that ties the cargo net to another side of the rigid container (e.g., inside of side wall 214). As noted elsewhere herein, the cargo net can be either affixed to the sleeve, or it can form an integral part of the sleeve, e.g., being sewn together with the sleeve or otherwise affixed or adjoined along one edge (preferably the lower edge) to the sleeve. As depicted in the drawings, the cargo net is rectangular, but it is contemplated that a cargo net in which the side farthest away from the doors (e.g., the free or unaffixed side) has a width that is smaller than the width of the cargo net closest to the doors.

The specific system 210 illustrated schematically in FIG. 3 also includes air pillows, which preferably function as cushions against the upward movement of the flexitank against the inside of the top "lid" (not illustrated) of the rigid container. At least one of the air pillows 262 can be placed on top of the cargo net 260, described above. Other air pillows 264, 266, can be placed directly on either side of the upper surface of the flexitank, and those other air pillows also serve as cushions to the upward movement of the flexitank, and also tend to inhibit any rolling movement of the flexitank, e.g., toward and away from the bulkhead assembly. Preferably, the air pillows have valves (not illustrated) where pressurized air can be introduced to the interior of each air pillow, and such air can also be released, e.g., upon arrival of the shipping container apparatus 210 to its destination.

Also illustrated schematically in FIG. 3 is a specific bulkhead assembly 268 which includes two vertical braces 270, 272 and three horizontal bulkhead panels. The vertical braces and the horizontal bulkhead panels are described in greater detail below, with reference to other drawings. The specific horizontal panels in apparatus 210 (which can also be referred to as horizontal reinforcement members) include an upper bulkhead panel 290a, an intermediate bulkhead panel 290b and a lower bulkhead panel 302. The lower panel includes an aperture through which an extending portion of the flexitank discharge valve 256 can pass.