Synthesis and Herbicidal Activity of Novel p-Menthane Derivatives Containing Sulfone Unit

Abstract

A series of novel p-menthane derivatives incorporating a sulfone unit were synthesized and evaluated for herbicidal activity under greenhouse conditions. Most of the compounds exhibited good post‑emergence activity against Echinochloa crusgalli, Digitaria sanguinalis, and Amaranthus retroflexus, as well as good pre‑emergence activity against Digitaria sanguinalis, and Amaranthus retroflexus. Notably, compound 4h was identified as the most potent derivative, achieving an average control rate of 97.5% across the three weed species under both pre‑ and post‑emergence applications, and displayed a more favorable crop safety profile than the reference herbicide diuron. Furthermore, compound 4i showed herbicidal activity comparable to that of diuron, but with superior crop safety.