This document is a patent application filed with the USPTO for a new method of preparing 2-chloro-4-fluoro-5-nitrobenzoic acid. The application, assigned to ADAMA AGAN LTD., describes a nitration process using oleum and nitric acid to synthesize the compound, which is an intermediate in the production of the herbicide saflufenacil. The application also covers purification and recovery methods for the synthesized acid or its alkyl esters.

While patent applications do not impose direct compliance obligations on regulated entities in the same way as rules or guidance, they represent new intellectual property in chemical synthesis. Companies involved in the production of herbicides or related chemical intermediates should be aware of this patented process, as it may affect their freedom to operate or require licensing agreements if they intend to use similar methods. The filing date was August 31, 2023, and the publication date is March 26, 2026.