Production Methods
The production of glufosinate-P-sodium involves a multistage synthesis that begins with the creation of a phosphorus intermediate, typically through the reaction of methylphosphonite with acrolein. This intermediate undergoes a Strecker reaction, or an alternative cyclisation like Bucherer-Bergs, using cyanide compounds (sodium cyanide/ammonium chloride) and ammonia in an aqueous solvent to form an amino-nitrile intermediate. This intermediate is then subjected to hydrolysis under acidic conditions (using hydrochloric acid) at high temperatures to produce glufosinate acid. Finally, the glufosinate acid is neutralised with ammonia gas or ammonium hydroxide in a solvent (such as alcohol), followed by crystallisation, filtration, and drying to yield the final high-purity, active L-isomer. The purified L glufosinate acid is neutralised with sodium hydroxide to form the sodium salt.
Mechanism of action
Non-selective, contact with some systemic action. Glutamine synthetase inhibitor: accumulates ammonium ions, inhibits photosynthesis.
