PESTICIDAL DIHALOVINYLALKENYLAMIDES

Abstract: A compound of Formula (I): (I) Q-X-(CH₂) c (CY=CY¹) d CONRR¹ wherein X is -CH₂- or -O- c = 0 to 10 d = 1 or 2 each of Y and Y¹ is independently selected from hydrogen, C 1-4 alkyl and halo-­ (C 1-4 ) alkyl; R and R¹ are independently selected from hydrogen, alkyl, amino-alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl and cycloalkyl, (any of which may be substituted by one or more of alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkoxy, halo, halo-alkyl and cyano), halo, cyano and dioxalanylalkyl, except that R¹ and R² are not both cyano or both halo; Q is alkoxy, cycloalkyl or branched alkyl (each optionally substituted by one or more of cycloalkenyl, phenyl, halo and cyano) or straight chain alkyl (substituted by one or more of alkynyl, halo or alkoxy) or alkynyl (optionally substituted by halo, cyano, trialkylsilyl, alkyl or cycloalkyl) or Q is a group (A): (A) R²-(CR³=CR⁴) a -(CH₂) b - in which a = 1 or 2 b = 0 to 4; and R², R³ and R⁴ are on each occurrence independently selected from hydrogen, cyano, halo, alkoxy, alkoxycarbonyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkyl (any of which may be optionally substituted by one or more of halo, alkoxy, cyano and alkoxy), acyl or a group -S(£0) n R⁵ where R⁵ is alkyl and n is 0 to 2, or alternatively R² and R³ or R³ and R⁴ together form part of an alicyclic 3 to 6 membered ring and the remainder of R² to R⁴ are as defined above.

Description: This invention relates to chemical compounds having pesticidal, particularly insecticidal, acaricidal and fungicidal, activity. British Patent specification No. 1 399 315 (Hoffman La Roche) disclosed certain analogues of juvenile hormone (JH), said to be insecticidal and acaricidal. All of the exemplified compounds have, in common with other JH analogues, methyl groups as substituents on the polyene chain, on both unsaturated and saturated carbon atoms thereof, typically at two or more of the 2,7 and 11 positions. The compound closest to the compounds of the present invention is 7,11-dimethyl-2,4-dodeca-dienamide. No biological data were presented for this compound. In contrast, we have found that certain unsaturated amides having unsubstituted saturated carbon atoms adjacent the diene unit have useful insecticidal, acaricidal and fungicidal activity, German Patent Specification No. 2 226 523 (Sandoz) discloses further JH analogues, but, again, there is a clear teaching that substitution on the saturated carbons is important, and there is no suggestion that fungicidal activity might be found. One aspect of the present invention provides compounds of Formula (I): (I) Q-X-(CH₂) c (CY=CY¹) d CONRR¹ wherein X is -CH₂- or -O- c = 0 to 10 d = 1 or 2 each of Y and Y¹ is independently selected from hydrogen, C 1-4 alkyl and halo­ (C 1-4 ) alkyl. R and R¹ are independently selected from hydrogen, alkyl, amino-alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl and cycloalkyl, (any of which may be substituted by one or more of alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkoxy, halo, halo-alkyl and cyano), halo, cyano and dioxalanylalkyl, except that R¹ and R² are not both cyano or both halo. Q is alkoxy, cycloalkyl or branched alkyl (each optionally substituted by one or more of cycloalkenyl, phenyl, halo and cyano) or straight chain alkyl (substituted by one or more of alkynyl, halo or alkoxy) or alkynyl (optionally substituted by one or more of halo, cyano, tri-alkylsilyl, alkyl and cycloalkyl) or Q is a group (A): (A) R²-(CR³=CR⁴) a -(CH₂) b - in which a = 1 or 2 b = 0 to 4; and R², R³ and R⁴ are on each occurrence independently selected from hydrogen, cyano, halo, alkoxy, alkoxycarbonyl, cyclo-alkyl, cycloalkenyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkyl (any of which may be optionally substituted by one or more of halo, alkoxy, cyano and alkoxy), acyl or a group -S(→0) n R⁵ where R⁵ is alkyl and n is 0 to 2, or alternatively R² and R³ or R³ and R⁴ together form part of an alicyclic 3 to 6 membered ring and the remainder of R² to R⁴ are as defined above. In the formula above, the terms alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl and alkoxy refer to groups having from 1 to 10 carbon atoms, preferably 1 to 6. Preferably, only one of R and R¹ is hydrogen. Suitably, R is hydrogen and R¹ is alkyl, in which case C 1-5 alkyl or C 1-5 alkenyl is preferred with isobutyl, 1,2-dimethylpropyl, 2,2,-dimethylpropyl and 2-methyl-2-propenyl being particularly preferable. 1,2-dimethylpropyl has been found to be associated with good acaricidal activity. Conveniently, d is 2. The or each olefinic group conjugated to the carbonyl group is preferably of E configuration. At least some of Y and Y¹ are preferably hydrogen or methyl, most preferably all hydrogen. If any of Y and Y¹ are not hydrogen, then any substitution (preferably methyl) is at the 3 position only. Preferably, Q is optionally substituted alkynyl or a group (A). When Q is a group (A), then suitably b+c = 3 or 4: when X is -CH₂-, then it is preferred if b+c=3, and when X is -O-, then preferably b+c = 4. When Q is optionally substituted alkynyl and X is -CH₂-, then preferably c is 3,5 or 7. It is generally preferred that c is other than zero. Advantageously, a=1. Preferably, R⁴ is hydrogen. Suitably, R² and R³ are each halo, preferably chloro or fluoro. Most preferably, R² and R³ are both chloro or both fluoro. Fungicidal activity is particularly associated with R² and R³ being halo, especially fluoro. When Q is optionally substituted alkynyl and X is -CH₂-, then it is preferably trialkyl silylethylnyl, most preferably trimethylsilylethynyl or tert-butylethynyl. If X is oxygen, then Q is preferably substituted 2-propynyl. When Q is is other than optionally substituted alkynyl or a group (A) then preferred values for Q are halomethyl-methyl (particularly trifluoromethyl­ methyl) and alkoxymethyl (particularly methoxymethyl) and X is preferably oxygen. A particularly preferred compound is isobutyl (2 E , 4 E )-11,11-difluoro-2,4,10-­ trienamide. Compounds of Formula (I) may be prepared in any of the following ways:- (a) by amidation of the corresponding acid or acid derivative, ie by reaction of a compound of Formula (II) with a compound of Formula (III): (II) Q - X (CH₂) C (CY=CY¹) d COZ¹ (III) NHRR¹ where Z¹ is hydroxy, alkoxy, halo or a phosphoroimidate ester group and the other variables are as defined above; (b) by reaction of a compound of Formula (IV) with a compound of Formula (V): (IV) Q X (CH₂) c (CY=CY¹) p D¹ (V) D² = CH (CY=CY¹) q CONRR¹ wherein one of D¹ and D² is an aldehyde group -CHO and the other is a group (Z²)₃P= or (Z²)₂P(→O)=, where Z² is alkyl, alkoxy (preferably ethoxy) or aryl (preferably phenyl), and the sum of p and q is 0 or 1; (c) by β-elimination from a compound of Formula (VII) or (VIII): (VII) Q-X (CH₂) c (CH=CH) d-1 CEY-CE¹Y¹-CONRR¹ (VIII) Q-X (CH₂) c CEY-CE¹Y¹(CY=CY¹) d-1 CONRR¹ wherein one of E and E¹ is hydrogen and the other is a leaving group D (→0)L, where D is sulphur or selenium and L is a suitable group such as lower alkyl (preferably methyl) or aryl (preferably phenyl); (d) when Q is a group (A) and R⁴ is hydrogen or alkyl , by reacting a compound of Formula (IX) with a compound of Formula (X): (IX) D³ (CH₂) b X (CH₂) c (CY=CY¹) d CONRR¹ (X) D⁴ =CR² R³ wherein one of D³ and D⁴ is a carbonyl group -C(O)R⁴ and the other is a group (Z³)₃P=, where Z³ is alkyl, alkoxy (preferably ethoxy) or aryl (preferably phenyl) or N(alkyl)₂, preferably N(Me)₂; R² and R³ being as defined above. (e) when Q is a group (A), be reacting a compound of Formula (XI) with a compound of Formula (XII) (XI) A′ (CH₂) c (CY=CY¹) d CONRR¹ (XII) R² (CR³=R⁴) a (CH₂) b -Z⁴ where one of A′ and Z⁴ is a leaving group such as halide (eg bromide or iodide) and the other is a suitable metal atom such as sodium or lithium or OM where M is hydrogen or a suitable metal such as sodium or lithium; (f) by reaction of a compound of Formula (XIII) with a compound of Formula (XIV):- (XIII) Q - X (CH₂) c -Hal (XIV) HC≡C(CY=CY¹) d-1 CONRR¹ wherein Hal is a halogen atom, followed by reduction of the triple bond, for example by hydrogenation; (g) by reaction of a compound of Formula (XV) with a compound of Formula (XVI) (XV) Q X (CH₂) c CY=CY¹-M¹ (XVI) Hal-(CY=CY¹) d-1 CONRR¹ wherein Hal is halide (eg bromide or iodide) and M¹ is a metal atom or metal group, for example comprising zirconium, aluminium or zinc, eg a bis-­ (cyclopentadienyl) zirconium choride group; or (h) when Q is optionally substituted alkynyl, by reaction of a compound of Formula (XVII) with a compound of Formula (XVII) or (XIX): (XVII) M¹-C≡C-(CH₂) b -X-(CH₂) c (CY=CY¹) d CONRR¹ (XVIII) R¹⁰-Z⁵ (XIX) (R¹⁰)₃B where M¹ is a metal such as sodium or lithium, Z⁵ is a leaving group such as halide, B is boron and R¹⁰ is hydrogen, halo, cyano, tri-alkylsilyl, alkyl or cycloalkyl. Process (a) is normally carried out in an aprotic solvent such as dichloromethane, ether or toluene, optionally in the presence of a tertiary amine such as triethylamine or in the presence of trimethylaluminum (when Z′ is alkoxy), but in the absence of water. If the compound of Formula (II) is an acid halide, for example acid chloride, then it may be formed from the corresponding acid by reaction with a suitable reagent such as oxalyl chloride or thionyl chloride. When Z¹ is a phosphoroimidate group then this is suitably formed from PhOP(0)(NHPh)Cl. The acid function in the compound of Formula (II) may be prepared by hydrolysis of an ester, the ester being prepared by a conventional Wittig or Wadsworth-Emmons reaction, using for example an aldehyde and ethoxycarbonylmethylene triphenylphosphorane or the anion from triethylphosphonocrotonate. The ester of Formula (II) may, when Q is a group (A) and R⁴ is hydrogen or alkyl, also be derived by a Wittig reaction using for example an aldehyde or ketone of Formula (XX) with a phosphorane of Formula (X) (XX) R⁴C(0)(CH₂) b X (CH₂) c (CY=CY¹) d COOR⁵ where R⁵ is alkyl (preferably methyl or ethyl) or aryl (preferably phenyl). Alternatively, the ester of Formula (II), whether or not Q is a group (A), may be derived by rearrangement and elimination on a compound of Formula (XXI) (XXI) Q X (CH₂) c+2 CH=C(S(→0)R⁶)COOR⁵ wherein R⁵ is as defined above and R⁶ is any suitable group, such as phenyl. The compound of Formula (XXI) may be obtained by reaction of a compound of Formula (XXII) with a compound of Formula (XXIII) (XXII) Q X (CH₂) c+2 CHO (XXIII) R⁶ S(→0) CH₂ COOR⁵ A further route is for the ester of Formula (II) to be prepared by elimination on a compound of Formula (XXIV): (XXIV) Q X (CH₂) c - A¹-A²-A³-COOR⁵ wherein R⁵ is as defined above, one of A¹, A² and A³ is (CH-CH) d-1 , another of A¹, A² and A³ is -CH₂-, and the third of A¹, A² and A³ is -CH(OR⁷)-, R⁷ being H or acyl (such as acetyl), and the said -CH₂-and -CH(OR⁷)- groups are adjacent one another. The reaction is preferably carried out in an aromatic solvent, conveniently in the presence of a molybdenum catalyst and a base, such as bistrimethylsilylacetamide. Intermediates of Formula (XXIV) may be obtained by reaction of a suitable aldehyde with a suitable sulphinyl compound, followed by acylation. Process (b) is suitably carried out in a dry solvent, for example tetrahydrofuran (THF), optionally in the presence of a base, and preferably under nitrogen at a low temperature. The Wittig-type reagent of Formula (V) or (VI) may be obtained with lithium diisopropylamide. Process (c) is normally carried out by heating in an aprotic solvent such as benzene or toluene, preferably in the presence of an acid catalyst, such as para­ toluene-sulphonic acid. Process (d) is usually conducted in an aprotic solvent such as THF, diglyme or triglyme at room temperature or below. Process (e) proceeds by heating in an aprotic solvent such as toluene or benzene. Process (f) preferably proceeds by reaction of the compound of Formula (XIV) with a base (such as lithium diisopropylamide) and the compound of Formula (XIII) in an aprotic solvent such as THF. Process (g) is conveniently carried out in an aprotic solvent such as THF, under an inert atmosphere (such as argon) and in the presence of a palladium (0) catalyst, such as bis-(triphenylphosphine) palladium. Process (h) is suitably carried out in an anhydrous aprotic solvent such as THF or toluene in the presence of a base such as sodium hydride. The intermediates of Formula (II) to (XX) may be prepared by standard methods. For example, compounds of Formulae (V) and (VI) may be prepared by the reaction of an appropriate phosphine, phosphonate or phosphite with an w-­ halo amide. The carbonyl-containing compounds of Formulae (IV), (IX) (XI) and (XIX) may be prepared, for example, by hydrolysis of a ketal or acetal ring or oxidation of an alcohol, for example using pyridinium chlorochromate or oxalyl chloride/dimethyl sulphoxide. Compounds of Formula (XX) may be prepared, when b=0, by reaction of the corresponding alcohol with acetic formic anhydride in the presence of a base such as pyridine. The compounds of Formula I may be used to control arthropods such as insects and acarines, and also fungal pests, such as fungi harmful to crops, stored produce and wood. The compounds of formula (I) may be used for such purposes by application of the compounds themselves or in diluted form in known fashion as a dip, spray, lacquer, foam, dust, powder, aqueous suspension, paste, gel, shampoo, grease, combustible solid, vapour emanator (e.g. coil, mat or the like), granule, aerosol, oil suspensions, oil solutions, pressure-pack, impregnated article (such as a plastics ear tag or collar or a strip to treat the air of an enclosed space) or pour on formulation. Dip concentrates are not applied per se , but diluted with water and the animals immersed in a dipping bath containing the dip wash. Sprays may be applied by hand or by means of a spray race or arch. The animal, plant or surface may be saturated with the spray by means of high volume application or superficially coated with the spray by means of light or ultra low volume application. Aqueous suspensions may be applied to the animals in the same manner as sprays or dips. Dusts may be distributed over the animals by means of a powder applicator or incorporated in perforated bags attached to trees or rubbing bars. Pastes, shampoos and greases may be applied manually or distributed over the surface of an inert material against which animals rub and transfer the material to their skins. Pour-on formulations are dispensed as a unit of liquid of small volume on to the backs of animals such that all or most of the liquid is retained on the animals. The compounds of Formula (I) may be formulated either as formulation ready for use on the animals or as formulations requiring dilution prior to application, but both types of formulation comprise a compound of Formula (I) in intimate admixture with one or more carriers or diluents. The carriers may be liquid, solid or gaseous or comprise mixtures of such substances, and the compound of Formula (I) may be present in a concentration of from 0.025 to 99% w/v depending upon whether the formuation requires further dilution. Dusts, powder and granules comprise the compound of Formula (I) in intimate admixture with a powdered solid inert carrier for example suitable clays, kaolin talc, mica, chalk, gypsum, vegetable carriers, starch and diatomaceous earths. Sprays of a compound of Formula (I) may comprise a solution in an organic solvent (e.g. those listed below) or an emulsion in water (dip wash or spray wash) prepared in the field from an emulsifiable concentrate (otherwise known as a water miscible oil), a wettable powder or a controlled release formulation, such as a microencapsulated formulation. The concentrate preferably comprises a mixture of the active ingredient, with or without an organic solvent and one or more emulsifiers. Solvents may be present within wide limits but preferably in an amount of from 0 to 90% w/v of the composition and may be selected from kerosene, ketones, alcohols, xylene, aromatic naphtha, and other solvents known in the formulating art. The concentration of emulsifiers may be varied within wide limits but is preferably in the range of 5 to 25% w/v and the emulsifiers are conveniently non-ionic surface active agents including polyoxyalkylene esters of alkyl phenols and polyoxyethylene derivatives of hexitol anhydrides and anionic surface active agents including Na lauryl sulphate, fatty alcohol ether sulphates, Na and Ca salts of alkyl aryl sulphonates and alkyl sulphosuccinates. Wettable powders comprise an inert solid carrier, one or more surface active agents, and optionally stabilisers and/or anti-oxidants. Emulsifiable concentrates comprise emulsifying agents, and often an organic solvent, such as kerosene, ketones, alcohols, xylenes, aromatic naphtha, and other solvents known in the art. Wettable powders and emulsifiable concentrates will normally contain from 5 to 95% by weight of the active ingredient, and are diluted, for example with water, before use. Microencapsulated formulations may be made by any known technique, for example coacervation or inter-facial polymerisation. Lacquers comprise a solution of the active ingredient in an organic solvent, together with a resin, and optionaly a plasticiser. Dip washes may be prepared not only from emulsifiable concentrates but also from wettable powders, soap based dips and aqueous suspensions comprising a compound of formula (I) in intimate admixture with a dispersing agent and one or more surface active agents. Aqueous suspensions of a compound of formula (I) may comprise a suspension in water together with suspending, stabilizing or other agents. Aqueous solutions may also be formed from acid addition salts of a compound of the formula (I). The suspensions or solutions may be applied per se or in a diluted form in known fashion. Electrostatic spraying techniques may be used with suitable formulations. Greases (or ointments) may be prepared from vegetable oils, synthetic esters of fatty acids or wool fat together with an inert base such as soft paraffin. A compound of formula (I) is preferably distributed uniformly through the mixture in solution or suspension. Greases may also be made from emulsifiable concentrates by diluting then with an ointment base. Pastes and shampoos are also semi-solid preparations in which a compound of formula (I) may be present as an uniform dispersion in a suitable base such as soft or liquid paraffin or made on a non-greasy basis with glycerin, mucilage or a suitable soap. As greases, shampoos and pastes are usually applied without further dilution they should contain the appropriate percentage of the compound of formula (I) required for treatment. Aerosol sprays may be prepared as a simple solution of the active ingredient in the aerosol propellant and co-solvent such as halogenated alkanes and the solvents referred to above, respectively. Pour-on formulations may be made as a solution or suspension of a compound of formula (I) in a liquid medium which also contains a viscous oil to minimise spreading of the formulaion on the surface of the animals. An avian or mammal host may also be protected against infestation of acarine ectoparasites by means of carrying a suitably-moulded, shaped plastics article impregnated with a compound of Formula (I). Such articles include impregnated collars, tags, bands, sheets and strips suitably attached to appropriate parts of the body. The concentration of the compound of Formula (I) to be applied to a locus (e.g. animal, grain, crop, soil, building etc) will vary according to the compound chosen, the interval between treatments, the nature of the formulation and the likely infestation , but in general 0.001 to 20.0% w/v and preferably 0.01 to 10% of the compound should be present in the applied formulation. The amount of the compound deposited on an animal will vary according to the method of application, size of the animal, concentration of the compound in the applied formulation, factor by which the formulation is diluted and the nature of the formulation but in general will lie in the range of from 0.0001% to 0.5% except for undiluted formulations such as pour-on formulations which in general will be deposited at a concentration in the range from 0.1 to 20.0% and preferably 0.1 to 10%. For public health usage, a deposited concentration of up to about 5% may be needed. The concentrate may contain up to 90% active ingredient. Dusts, greases, pastes and aerosol formulations are usually applied in a random fashion as described above and concentrations of 0.001 to 20% w/v of a compound of Formula (I) in the applied formulation may be used. Bait formulations for, for example, cockroaches will include suitable attractants, and/or foodstuffs. The compounds of the invention can be formulated specifically for use on grain or on the exposed surfaces of buildings, or for space spraying. The compounds may be administered in an animal's feed to combat insect larvae infesting the animal's dung. Any suitable formulation, including microencapsulated material, may be used. The amount of the compound which is administered will vary according to the type and size of animal, and is chosen to provide a suitable concentration of the compounds in the animal's dung. Typically, 0.001 to 100 mg/kg bodyweight, preferably 0.1 to 10 mg/kg, are administered daily, to give concentrations of 0.001 to 1%, preferably 0.01 to 0.1% compound in the dung. The compound will usually be formulated as a concentrate or premix for mixing with a feed supplement, feed concentrate, roughage or the like. Alternatively, the compound may be added to the supply of drinking water. Suitable animals include cattle, pigs, horses, sheep, goats and poultry. Insect pests include members of the orders Coleoptera (e.g. Anobium , Tribolium , Sitophilus , Diabrotica , Anthonomus , Hylotrupes or Anthrenus spp.), Lepidoptera (e.g. Ephestia , Plutella , Chilo , Heliothis , Spodoptera , Tinea or Tineola spp.), Diptera (e.g. Anopheles , Simulium , Musca , Aedes , Culex , Glossina , Stomoxys , Haematobia , Tabanus , Hydrotaea , Lucilia , Chrysomia , Callitroga , Dermatobia , Hypoderma , Liriomyza , and Melophagus spp.), Phthiraptera ( Malophaga e.g. Damalina spp. and Anoplura e.g. Linognathus and Haematopinus pp.), Hemiptera (e.g. Triatoma , Rhodnius , Aphis , Bemisia , Aleurodes , Nilopavata , Nephrotetix or Cimex spp.), Orthoptera (e.g. Schistocerca or Acheta spp.), Dictyoptera (e.g. Blattella , Periplaneta or Blatta spp.), Hymenoptera (e.g. Solenopsis or Monomorium spp.), Isoptera (e.g. Reticulitermes spp.)] Siphonaptera (e.g. Ctenocephalides or Pulex spp.), Thysanura (e.g. Lepisma spp.), Dermaptera (e.g. Forficula spp.) and Psocoptera (e.g. Peripsocus spp.). Acarine pests include ticks, e.g. members of the genera Boophilus , Rhipicephalus , Amblyomma , Hyalomma , Ixodes , Haemaphysalis , Dermocentor and Anocentor , and mites and manges such as Tetranychus , Psoroptes , Psorergates , Chorioptes , Demodex , Dermatophagoides , Acarus , Tyrophagus and Glycyphagus Spp. The compounds exhibit killing and/or knockdown activity against adult and/or larval arthropod pests. Compounds of the invention may be combined with one or more other active ingredients (for example pyrethroids, carbamates and organophosphates) and/or with attractants and the like. Furthermore, it has been found that the activity of the compounds of the invention may be enhanced by the addition of a synergist or potentiator, for example: one of the oxidase inhibitor class of synergists, such as piperonyl butoxide or NIA 16388; a second compound of the invention; or a pyrethroid pesticidal compound. When an oxidase inhibitor synergist is present in a formula of the invention, the ratio of synergist to compound of Formula (I) will be in the range 25:1-1:25 eg about 10:1. Stabilisers for preventing any chemical degradation which may occur with the compounds of the invention include, for example, antioxidants (such as tocopherols, butylhydroxyanisole and butylhydroxytoluene) and scavengers (such as epichlorhydrin). It will be understood that what we will claim may comprise: (a) compounds of Formula (I); (b) processes for the preparation of compounds of Formula (I); (c) insecticidal, acaricidal and fungicidal compositions comprising a compound of Formula (I) in admixture with a carrier; (d) processes for the preparation of such pesticidal compositions; (e) methods for the control of insect, acarine or fungal pests comprising the application to the pest or its environment of a compound of Formula (I); (f) synergised pesticidal compositions comprising a compound of Formula (I); and (g) potentiating or non-potentiating mixtures of a compound of Formula (I) and another pesticidal compound; (h) novel intermediates in the preparation of compounds of Formula (I), particularly compounds of Formula (II). The following Examples illustrate, in a non-limiting manner, preferred aspects of the invention. All temperatures are in degrees Celsius. Ex 1: (2E, 4E)-N-ISOBUTYL-11,11-DIFLUOROUNDECA-2,4,10-TRIENAMIDE Benzyl chloride (20mls, 170 mmol) was added to a mixture of 1,6-hexanediol (75g, 635 mmol) in toluene (150mls) containing sodium metal (3.9g, 170mmol) and refluxed for 5hrs. After cooling, the two layers were separated and the upper toluene layer washed with water to remove excess diol. The water layer was back extracted with toluene and the combined fractions dried. Removal of the solvent gave 6-benzyloxyhexan-1-ol (A) as a pale yellow oil which was used without further purification. Dimethylsulphoxide (7.5mls, 100mmol) was added dropwise to a solution of redistilled oxalyl chloride (5.5mls, 60mmol) in dry dichloromethane (200mls) at -60 °C under nitrogen. After stirring for 0.5hr, the monobenzyl protected hexanediol (A) (10g, 50 mmol) in dry dichloromethane (10mls) was added and the mixture allowed to warm to -20 °C. The mixture was recooled to -70 °C and triethylamine (23mls, 240 mmol) added. After warming to room temperature, water was added (100mls), the two layers separated, and the organic layer washed with water (2x50mls). The organic layer was dried and evaporated down to give 6 benxyloxyhexanal (B) as a pale yellow oil which was used without further purification. Sodium chlorodifluoroacetate (12g, 78mmol) in warm (60 °C) dry diglyme (30mls) was added via a syringe to a solution of the aldehyde (B) (10g, 48 mmol) and triphenylphosphine (15.34g, 58 mmol) in dry diglyme (10mls) at an oil bath temperature of 160 °C. After stirring for 1hr., the mixture was cooled and the solid (NaCl) filtered off. The diglyme was removed under vacuum and the residue purified by column chromatography (silica, 5:1 hexane:ether) to give 7-­ benzyloxy-1,1-difluorohept-1-ene (C) Alternatively, hexamethylphosphorus triamide (12.6mls, 69 mmol) was added to a solution of dibromodifluoromethane (7.13g, 34 mmol) in dry diglyme (25mls) at 0 °C. After stirring for 0.5hr the aldehyde (B) (6.5g, 3.2mmol) in dry diglyme (10mls) was added and the mixture allowed to warm to room temperature. After 18hrs., the mixture was worked up with ether, which gave, after removal of solvents, compound (C), an orange oil which was used without further purification. Trimethyl silyliodide (6g, 30 mmol) was added to a solution of compound (C) (5.4g, 22.5 mmol) in dry chloroform (80mls) under nitrogen, with stirring. After 2hrs, methanol (100mls) was added and then the solvents removed under vacuum. The residue was taken up in ether (100mls), filtered and the filtrate washed successively with aqueous sodium bisulphite (30mls), aqueous sodium bicarbonate (50mls) and brine (50mls). The organic layer was dried and evaporated down and the residue purified by column chromatography give 7,7-­ difluorohept-6-enol (D). Compound (D) (1g) was oxidised in an analogous manner to compound (A) to give 7,7-difluorohept-6-enal (E) which was used without further purification. Triethyl 4-phosphonocrotonate (1.66g, 6.6mmol) in dry tetrahydrofuran (THF) (5mls) was added at -70 °C to lithium diisopropylamide (7 mmol) in dry THF (10mls) under nitrogen. The temperature was allowed to reach -20 °C (1hr) before recooling to -60 °C and adding the aldehyde (E) (0.95g, 6.4mmol) in dry THF (5mls). The temperature was allowed to warm slowly to room temperature and then worked up in the standard manner. The crude material was purified by column chromatography (silica, 2:1 hexane:ether) to give (2E,4E) ethyl 11,11-­ difluoroundeca-2,4,10-trienoate (F) as a pale yellow oil. The ester (F) (0.6g, 2.5 mmol) was hydrolysed by refluxing in ethanol (50mls) containing potassium hydroxide (0.65g, 12 mmol) for 2hrs. Work up in the conventional manner gave (2 E ,4 E )-11,11-difluoroundeca-2,4,10 trienoic acid (G) as a pale yellow oil which was carried on to the final stage. Triethylamine (0.25mls. 1.8mmol) was added to the acid (G) (0.38g, 1.8mmol) and phenyl N-phenylphosphoramidochloridate (0.48g, 1.8mmol) in dry dichloromethane (20mls) under nitrogen. After stirring for 0.5hr., triethylamine (0.25mls, 1.8mmol) and isobutylamine (0.13g, 1.8 mmol) in dry dichloromethane (5mls) were added. The mixture was stirred for 2hrs. The mixture was washed with water (3x20mls), dried and the solvent removed to give an amber residue. This was purified by column chromatography (Silica, 2:1 hexane:ether) to give the title product as a pale yellow solid m.p. Tlc (silica 1:1 ether:hexane) 1 spot Rf 0.15 Glc 1 peak - Retention time 5 mins. ¹H NMR 7.2 (1H),m,H3: 5.9 (3H), m, H2,H4,H5; 4.0 (1H) bm. H10; 3.12 (2H),d of d, N-CH₂; 2.3→1.7 and 1.6→1.2 (9H) m, H6→H9, CH of isobutyl; 0.95 (6H),d, isobutyl. Example 2 (2E,4E)-N-ISOBUTYL-9-(2,2 DIFLUOROVINYLOXY)-NONA-2,4-­ DIENAMIDE (2 E ,4 E )-ethyl 9-hydroxynona-2,4-dienoate (A) was prepared from 1,5-­ pentanediol by an analogous procedure to that of Example 1. Acetic formic anhydride (1.3g, 15 mmol) was added dropwise to the hydroxy ester (A) (2.5g, 12.6mmol) in dry dichloromethane (20mls) containing dry pyridine (2mls). After stirring under nitrogen for 18hrs., the mixture was washed with water (3x20mls), dried and the solvent removed to give (2 E ,4 E )-­ ethyl-9-formyloxynona-2,4-dienonate (B) which was carried on to the next stage without further purification. Compound (B) (3g) was treated with dibromodifluoromethane by an analogous method to that of Example 1 to give a crude product (2 E ,4 E )-ethyl9-(2,2-­ difluorovinyloxy)-nona-2,4-dienoate (C) which was further purified by column chromatography (silica, 1:10 hexane:ether) Isobutylamine (0.23g, 3.15 mmol) was added dropwise via a syringe to a solution of trimethylaluminium (3.2mmol) in toluene (10mls) at -10 °C under nitrogen. After stirring for 0.5hr, the mixture was allowed to warm to room temperature and the ester (C) (0.74g, 2.85mmol) in toluene (5mls) added. The mixture was refluxed for 6hrs, cooled, and dilute hydrochloric acid (4mls. 2M) added slowly so as to avoid excess frothing. The toluene layer was washed with water, dried and evaporated down to give crude product. This was further purified by flash column chromatography (silica, 3:1 hexane:ether) to give the title product as an off white solid. Tlc (silica, 1:1 ether:hexane) 1 spot Rf=0.12; GC (3%OV210, 150→250 °C 16 °C/min retention time 5.2mins. H nmr (dCDCl₃): 7.2 (1H),m, H3, 5.4→6.1(4H), m, H2, H4, H5, NH; 5.6 (1H), dd, olefinic CH; 3.7 (2H), t, H9; 3.15 (2H) d of d, N-CH₂; 2.3→1.4 (7H), m, H6→H8, CH of isobutyl; 0.95 (6H), d, isobutyl. Example 3 (2E,4E)-N-ISOBUTYL-11,11-DICHLOROUNDECA-2,4,10-­ TRIENAMIDE (2 E ,4 E )-ethyl 10-tetrahydropyranyloxydeca-2,4-dienoate (5.67g), prepared by an analogous method to that shown in Example 1 from tetrahydropyranyl protected 1, 6-hexanediol, was hydrolysed by the method of Example 1 to give (2 E ,4 E )-10-­ tetrahydropyranyloxydeca-2,4-dienoic acid (A) as a yellow oil. This yielded, by the method of Example 1, (2 E ,4 E )-N-isobutyl 10-tetrahydropyranyloxy-deca-­ 2,4-dienamide (B) as a pale yellow oil. Removal of the protecting group using "Amberlyst 15" resin gave (2 E ,4 E )N-isobutyl 10-hydroxydeca-2,4-dienamide (C) as a white solid after recrystallisation from ether/hexane. ("Amberlyst 15" is a trade mark of Rohm and Haas, and is a strongly acidic macroreticular resin available from BDH, Poole, Dorset, UK). Compound (C) (1g) was then oxidised under the usual conditions to give (2 E ,4 E )-N-isobutyl 9-formylnona-2,4-­ dienamide (D) as a pale yellow solid. The aldehyde (D) (0.48g, 2.0 mmol) and bromotrichloromethane (0.42g, 2.1 mmol) in dry dichloromethane (2.0mls) were cooled to -30 °C and hexamethylphosphorus triamide (1g, 6.0 mmol) added dropwise. After stirring at room temperature for 48hrs, the mixture was washed with water, dilute hydrochloric acid and brine, dried and evaporated down to give the title product. This was purified by column chromatography (silica, 3:2 hexane:ether) to give the required product as a pale yellow solid. Tlc (silica, 3:2 hexane:ether) 1 spot Rf 0.6; GC (OV210, 250 °C), retention time 1.5 mins. ¹H NMR 7.1 (1H), m, H3; 6.18→5.68 (4H), m, H2, H4, H5, H10; 3.4 (1H), t, NH; 3.16 (2H), d of d, N-CH₂; 2.3→1.3 (9H), m, H6→H9, CH of isobutyl; 0.92 (6H), d, 2x Me of isobutyl. Example 4 (2E,4E)-N-ISOBUTYL 9-(2-PROPYNYLOXY)NONA-2,4-­ DIENAMIDE (2 E ,4 E )- N -isobutyl 9-hydroxynona-2,4-dienamide (0.5g, 2.2 mmol), prepared by an analogous procedure to compound (C) of Example 3, was added to a suspension of sodium hydride (0.055g, 2.3 mmol) in dry tetrahydrofuran. After stirring for 0.5hr, propargyl bromide (0.27g, 2.25mmol) was added and stirring continued for 18hrs. Work up in the conventional manner gave the title compound which was purifed by column chromatography (silica, 2:1 hexane:ether) to give a pale yellow solid. ¹H NMR 7.1 (1H), m, 3H; 6.1→5.6 (3H), m, 2H, 4H, 5H; 4.05 (2H) d (J=2Hz) propynyl CH₂; 3.5 (2H), t, 9H, 3.15 (2H), d of d, isobutyl CH₂; 2.4 (1H), t (J=2Hz); 2.2→1.3 (7H), m, 6H, 8H,isobutyl CH; 0.95 (6H),d, isobutyl CH₃. Example 4 (alternative method) Propargyl bromide (10g) was added to sodium hydride (3.4g of 60% dispersion) and 1,5-pentanediol (35g). After warming for 1 hour, the mixture was diluted with toluene and washed with water. A conventional work-up yielded 5-­ propargyloxy-pentan-1-ol. This compound was converted in 3 stages to ethyl 9-­ propargyloxy-nona-2,4-dienonate. The latter compound (0.5g) in dry toluene was added at 0 ° to a complex prepared from isobutylamine (0.g) and trimethylaluminium (2.2ml at 2M in toluene) in toluene at -15 to 0 °. After refluxing for 3 hours, the reaction mixture was worked up in the standard manner to give crude material which was purified by chromatography (silica, ether:hexane) to give N -isobutyl 9-propargyloxy-nona-2,4-dienamide. NMR 7.18 (1H),m,H3; 6.06 (1H),m,H4,H5; 5.78 (1H), d.H2; 6(1H),NH; 4.08 (2H),d,propargyl; 3.50 (2H),t, H9; 2.38(1H),t, acetylenic; 2,15 (2H),m,H6; 1.55(4H),m, H7, H8; 3.16(2H),d, of d, 1.8(1H),m,0.93(6H),d,isobutyl. Example 54 (a) N-isobutyl 3-iodo-prop-2-enamide Trans -3-Bromo-prop-2-enoic acid was prepared by a literature method form propiolic acid and aqueous hydrobromic acid. Trans -3-bromo-prop-­ 2-enoic acid (3g, 19.9 mmol) in dichloromethane was treated sequentially with triethylamine (21.5 mmol) and phenyl- N -phenyl phosphoramidochloridate in the absence of oxygen and moisture. After 20 minutes, the mixture was treated with triethylamine (21.5 mmol) and isobutyl amine (23 mmol). After 2 hours at room temperature, conventional work-up and purification by column chromatography, N -­ isobutyl 3-bromo-prop-2-enamide (mp 101 °) was obtained. A solution of the bromide (2.43 mmol) in dry acetone was treated with first sodium iodide (4.86 mmol) and anhydrous aluminium chloride (10 mg). After stirring overnight, the reaction mixture was worked-up and the amide material purified by column chromatography to give N -isobutyl 3-iodo-­ prop-2-enamide. (b) 10-Trimethylsilyldeca-1,9-diyne Deca-1,9-diyne (10g, 74.6 mmol) in dry tetrahydrofuran was treated at 0 ° with ethyl magnesium bromide (74 mmol). The mixture was stirred at room temperature for 1 hour, cooled to 0 ° and treated with trimethylsilyl chloride (75 mmol). The mixture was heated under reflux for 2 hours, quenched with dilute hydrochloric acid and worked up in conventional fashion. The crude product was purified by fractional distillation (bp. 84-­ 90 ° at 2mm). (c) (2E,4E)-N-isobutyl 13-trimethylsilyl trideca-2,4,-dien-12-ynamide The product of step (b) (1.5g, 7.28 mmol) in dry benzene was added to bis (cyclopentadienyl) zirconium chloride hydride (1.08g, 8.07 mmol) in dry benzene. The solution was stirred in the dark under an atmosphere of dry argon to give (1 E )-1-[ bis (cyclopentadienyl) zirconium chloride]-10-­ trimethylsilyldeca-1-ene-9-yne. The above solution was added to a suspension of bis -triphenylphosphine palladium, prepared from bis -­ triphenylphosphine palladium dichloride (0.51g) and diisobutylaluminium hydride in hexane (1.45 ml at 1M), in dry tetrahydrofuran at 0 °. N -­ Isobutyl 3-iodo-prop-2-enamide (1.84g) from step (a) in tetrahydrofuran (15ml) was added and the whole stirred for 16 hours at room temperature, in the dark, under argon. The reaction mixture was poured into dilute hydrochloric acid and worked up by conventional aqueous/ether extraction. After washing with saturated sodium bicarbonate solution and brine and drying, the crude material was passed down an alumina column (2:1 hexane:ether) and purified finally by preparative HPLC (ordinary phase silica, 60:40, hexane:ether) to give as a colourless solid (2 E ,4 E )- N -­ isobutyl 13-trimethylsilyltrideca-2,4-dien-12-ynamide. Tlc. (silica; 1:1 hexane:ether) R f 0.25. UV max 258nm., NMR (90MH z ); 7.25 (1H), d of m, J:14.5H z , H3; 6.37 (1H), NH; 6.15 (2H),m, H4,5; 5.92 (2H),d,J14.5Hz, H2; 2.20 (4H),m, H6,H11; 1.40(8H),m,H7,8,9,10; 0.16(9H),s,SiMe₃; 3.18 (2H);d of d; 1.83 (1H),m; 0.92 (6H),d, isobutyl. Example 56: (2E,4E)-N-isobutyl pentadeca-2,4-dien-14-ynamide The compound of Example 55 (0.33 mmol) in dry tetrahydrofuran (10ml) was treated with tetrabutylammonium fluoride (1M in tetrahydrofuran, 0.7ml). After sixteen hours at room temperature in the absence of moisture, the mixture was worked up in conventional manner and the crude material purified by chromatography (1:1 ether:hexane, alumina) to give the title product. NMR 7.05 (1H),m,H3; 5.98 (2H),m,H4,5; 5.64 (2H),d,H2; 2.05 (4H),m, H6,13; 1.90 (1H),t, H15; 1.2 (12H),m,H7-H12; 3.08 (2H),d of d; 1.95 (1H), m; 0.93 (6H),d; isobutyl. Example 57:(2E,4E)-N-isobutyl 13-dimethyl-t-butylsilyltrideca-2,4-dien-12-­ ynamide. The compound of Example 8 (0.73 mmol) in dry tetrahydrofuran (10ml) was added to lithium diisopropylamide (2.2 equiv.) in tetrahydrofuran at -60 ° and kept at -60 ° for 2 hours. Dimethyl t-butyl silyl chloride (1.46 mmol) was added at -60 °. The mixture was warmed to room temperature, quenched with dilute hydrochloric acid and worked up in conventional fashion. Chromatography (alumina, ether:hexane, 1:1) yielded the title compound. NMR 7.05 (1H),m,H3; 5.98 (2H),m,H4,5; 5.7(2H),d,H2; 2.15(4H),m,H6,11; 1.25(8H); 0.9 (9H),S,Bu t ; 0.1(6H),S,Me₂Si; 3.05(2H),d of d; 1.8(1H),m;0.9(6H),d; isobutyl; 5.9 (1H),NH. Example 44: (2E,4E)-N-isobutyl 14,14-dimethylpentadeca-2,4-diene-12-­ ynamide 3,3-Dimethylbutyne (30.5 mmol) in tetrahydrofuran at -78 ° was treated with n-­ butyl lithium (30.5 mmol). The mixture was allowed to reach -20 ° and recooled to -78 °. 7-Hydroxy-1-bromoheptane-tetrahydropyranyl ether (30.5 mmol) in 1:1 tetrahydrofuran:hexamethylphosphoramide was added. The mixture was warmed to room temperature and worked up in conventional fashion. The crude material was distilled to give 1-(2-tetrahydropyranyloxy)-10,10-­ dimethylundeca-8-yne. The above compound was deprotected to the alcohol (Amberlyst-H15-methanol). ("Amberlist" is a Registered Trade Mark). The alcohol was oxidised (Swern conditions) to give an aldehyde which was reacted with triethylphosphono-crotonate-lithium diisopropylamide in a known fashion to give ethyl 14,14-dimethylpentadea-2,4-diene-12-ynoate. The above ester was hydrolysed to 14,14-dimethylpentadeca-2,4-diene-12-ynoic acid. The above acid (3.81 mmol) in dichoromethane was treated with triethylamine (3.81 mmol) and phenyl N -phenylphosphoramidochloridate (3.81 mmol). After 2 hours, triethylamine (3.81 mmol) and isobutylamine (3.81 mmol) were added. After reaction for 16 hours at room temperature the mixture was worked up and the crude product purified by flash column chromatography (Silica, 4:1 ether:hexane) to give (2 E ,4 E )-N-isobutyl 14,14-dimethylpentadeca-2,4-diene-12-­ ynamide. Tlc (silica-ether) R f 0.59. NMR; 7.35 (1H),m,H3; 6.2(2H),m,H4,H5; 5.75 (1H),d,H2; 5.4 (1H),NH;2.26 (4H),m,H6,H11; 1.4(8H),H7,8,9,10; 1,18(9H),s,Bu t ; 3.16(2H),d of d, 1.65(1H),m, 0.94 (6H),d, isobutyl. Example 62: (2E,4E) N-Isobutyl 9-(3-trimethylsilyl-prop-2-ynyloxy)-nona-2,4-­ dienamide N -Isobutyl 9-propargyloxy-nona-2,4-dienamide (1g) in anhydrous tetrahydrofuran was treated at -70 ° with n butyl lithium (5ml. at 1.6M in hexane). The mixture was allowed to reach -10 °, recooled to -65 ° and trimethylsilyl chloride (0.83g) was added. After 16 hours at room temperature, the reaction was worked up n conventional fashion and purified to give the product as an oil. NMR; 4.13 (2H)s, propargylic; 0.15 (9H),s, SiMe₃; mass spectrum, m+1, 336. Example 53: (2E,4E) N-Isobutyl 9-(3-cyclohexylprop-2-ynyloxy)-nona-2,4-­ dienamide Boron trifluoride etherate (5.78g) was reacted with sodium borohydride (1.3g) in dry tetrahydrofuran containing cyclohexene (10g). After warming at 65 ° for 3 hours the mixture was cooled, diluted with ether, filtered and the solvents removed from the filtrate. The residue was added to the dilithium salt of N-­ isobutyl 9-propargyloxy-nona-2,4-dienamide (0.6g) and n-butyl lithium (1.6M,2.9ml) at -20 ° under nitrogen. When the mixture reached 0 ° it was recooled to -70 ° and iodine (1.16g) in ether was added. After 30 mins at -70 °, the reaction was allowed to reach 0 ° and reated with aqueous sodium hydroxide sodium thiosulphate. The combined organic phases were washed with aqueous sodium hydroxide and treated with 30% hydrogen peroxide. After normal work-­ up and purification by column chromatography the product was obtained as an oil. NMR, 7.21(1H)m,H3;6.11(2H),m,H4,H5;5.80(1H),d,H2;5.75(1H),NH; 4.12(2H),S,propargyl; 3.53(2H),t,H9; 2.41(1H),m,cyclohexyl CH; 2.20 (2H),m,H6; 1.1 to 1.9 (14H), H7,H8, cyclohexane; 3.18(2H),d of d, 0.91 (6H), d, isobutyl. Example 41: (2E, 4E, 10E/Z) N-1,2-dimethylpropyl 11-cyanoundeca-2,4 10-­ trienamide Ethyl deca-10-oxo-2,4-dienoate (1 g), prepared by established methods, in toluene was treated with cyanomethylenetriphenylphosphorane (1.44 g). After reaction at reflux temperature for 2 hours and room temperature for 16 hours, conventional work-up and chromatography yielded an ester which was reacted with trimethyl aluminium-1,2-dimethylpropylamine in the usual fashion to give example 41. (silica/40:60 hexane: ethyl acetate R f 0.33). Similarly prepared were:- Example 42: (2E, 4E, 10E/Z) N-1,2 dimethylpropyl 11-methylthio-undeca-­ 2,4,10-trienamide Starting from deca-10-oxo-2,4-dienoate and diethylthiomethyl phosphonate. Example 43: (2E, 4E, 10E/Z N-1,2-dimethylpropyl 11-methoxy-undeca-2,4,10-­ trienamide Starting from deca-10-oxo-2,4-dienoate and methoxymethylene triphenyl phosphorane. Example 10: 2E, 4E, 10E/Z N-Isobutyl 11-carbeothoxyundeca-2,4,10-trienamide Starting from deca-10-oxo-2,4-dienoate and ethyl fluoroacetate-diethyl oxalate. Example 48 (2E/Z, 4E) N-Isobutyl 11,11-difluoro-3-methyl-undeca-­ 2,4,10-trienamide 7,7-Difluorohept-6-ene-1-al (see Example 1) was reacted with triethyl 3-­ methylphosphonocrotonate to give an ester which was converted to (2E/Z, 4E) N -­ Isobutyl 11,11-difluoro-3-methyl undeca-2,4,10-trienamide. Example 50: (2E/Z, 4E) N-Isobutyl 11,11-difluoro-3-fluoromethyl-undeca-­ 2,4,10-trienamide 7,7-difluorohept-6-ene-1-al was reacted with triethyl-3-fluoromethyl­ phosphonocrotonate-LDA to give an ester which was converted to (2E/Z, 4E) N -­ Isobutyl 11,11-difluoro-3-fluoromethyl-undeca-2,4,10-trienamide. Example 65: (2E, 4E, 10Z) N-Isobutyl 11-chloro-11-trifluoromethyl-undeca-­ 2,4,10-trienamide Deca-10-oxo-2,4-dienoate (14.15 mmol) in dry DMF was treated with acetic anhydride (2.15 ml), trichloroethane (3.36 ml) and activated zinc powder (4.62g). The mixture was kept at 50 ° under nitrogen for 3 hours and worked up in conventional fashion. Chromatography on silica yielded an ester which was reacted with trimethyl aluminium-isobutylamine to give the title compound. Examples 5 to 62: The following Tables summarise Examples 5 to 62 made by the methods given above or by analogous methods. Unless otherwise stated, all the compounds are (2 E , 4 E ) dienamides. The following compound of Formula (I) was prepared by an analogous method: The following compounds of Formula (II) were prepared by methods analogous to that described in Example 1 above. The following characterising date were obtained for the products of Examples 5-­ 62: Rf data were measured using silica tlc plates (HF 25G 0.2 mm) eluted with ether (A), ether/hexane 1:1 (B), ether/hexane 3:1 (C) ethyl acetate/hexane 3:2 (D) or ethyl acetate/hexane 2:1 (E) GC retention times (R t ) were measured using 3% OV210 column programmed from 100→250 ° at 16 °/min (F) or 150→250 ° at 16 °/min (G) or at a set temperature of 130 ° (H), 150 ° (I), 160 ° (J), 190 ° (K) 200 ° (L) 210 ° (M), 220 ° (N) 230 ° (O) or 240 ° (P) Biological Examples A. Lethal Activity against housefly (Musca domestica) The compounds were administered topically in cellosolve solution in conjunction with a synergist (piperonyl butoxide). The results are given in Table 5. B. Knockdown activity against housefly (Musca domestica) Knock down (KD) activity against houseflies was gauged by space-spray testing of the compounds in the Kearns and March chamber. The compound was administered in conjunction with a synergist (piperonyl butoxide 1:5 cpd:PB) in dichloromethane/odourless petroleum distillate (OPD). The results are given in Table 6. C1: Activity against Mosquitoes (Culex fatigans) The compounds were tested in conjunction with piperonyl butoxide in OPD/dichloromethane solution in a wind-tunnel. The results are give in Table 7. C2: Activity against Mosquitoes Female mosquitoes were confined in glass vials, coated with a deposit of the compound of Example 48, for 30 minutes. They were then removed and held in an untreated container with a supply of sugar-water for 24 hours, at which time mortality was assessed. D. Lethal Activity against Cockroach (B. germanica) The compounds were administered topically in cellosolve solution in conjunction with a synergist (piperonyl butoxide). The results are given in Table 8. E. Anitfungal Activity The compounds were tested on a black filter paper against Coniophora puteana and Coriolus versicolor . The results are given in Table 9. F. Antifungal Activity The compounds were tested in soft agar against Coniophora puteana and Coriolus versicolor The results are given in Table 10. G. Acaricidal Activity Compounds of Formula (I) were tested against Boophilus microplus (Paquera strain) by injection into females. The results are given in Table 10.

Claims: 1. A compound of Formula (I): (I) Q-X-(CH₂)c(CY=CY¹)dCONRR¹ wherein X is -CH₂- or -O- c = 0 to 10 d = 1 or 2 each of Y and Y¹ is independently selected from hydrogen, C1-4 alkyl and halo-­ (C1-4) alkyl; R and R¹ are independently selected from hydrogen, alkyl, amino-alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl and cycloalkyl, (any of which may be substituted by one or more of alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkoxy, halo, halo-alkyl and cyano), halo, cyano and dioxalanylalkyl, except that R¹ and R² are not both cyano or both halo; Q is alkoxy, cycloalkyl or branched alkyl (each optionally substituted by one or more of cycloalkenyl, phenyl, halo and cyano) or straight chain alkyl (substituted by one or more of alkynyl, halo or alkoxy) or alkynyl (optionally substituted by halo, cyano, trialkylsilyl, alkyl or cycloalkyl) or Q is a group (A): (A) R²-CR³=CR⁴)a-(CH₂)b- in which a = 1 or 2 b = 0 to 4; and R², R³ and R⁴ are on each occurrence independently selected from hydrogen, cyano, halo, alkoxy, alkoxycarbonyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkyl (any of which may be optionally substituted by one or more of halo, alkoxy, cyano and alkoxy), acyl or a group -S(→0)n R⁵ where R⁵ is alkyl and n is 0 to 2, or alternatively R² and R³ or R³ and R⁴ together form part of an alicyclic 3 to 6 membered ring and the remainder of R² to R⁴ are as defined above. 2. A compound according to claim 1 wherein only one of R and R¹ is hydrogen. 3. A compound according to claim 1 or 2 wherein R is hydrogen and R¹ is alkyl. 4. A compound according to claim 3 wherein R¹ is C1-5 alkyl or C1-5 alkenyl and d is 2. 5. A compound according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the or each olefinic group conjugated to the amide carbonyl group is of E configuration. 6. A compound according to any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein, when d=2, the carbon atom at the 3 position relative to the amide carbonyl is substituted by methyl or is unsubstituted and the remainder of Y and Y¹ are hydrogen. 7. A compound according to any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein Q is a group (A) as defined above and R² and R³ are each chloro or fluoro. 8. Isobutyl (2E, 4E-11,11-difluoro-2,4,10-trienamide. 9. A compound according to any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein Q is optionally substituted alkynyl. 10. A compound according to claim 9 wherein Q is trimethylsilylethynyl or tertiary-butyl ethynyl. 11. A process for preparing a compound according to claim 1 by: (a) amidation of the corresponding acid or acid derivative, ie by reaction of a compound of Formula (II) with a compound of Formula (III): (II) Q - X (CH₂)c (CY=CY¹)d COZ¹ (III) NHRR¹ where Z¹ is hydroxy, alkoxy, alkoxy, halo or a phosphoroimidate ester group and the other variables are as defined above; (b) reaction of a compound of Formula (IV) with a compound of Formula (V) or (VI): (IV) Q X (CH₂)c (CY=CY¹)pCHO (V) (Z²)₃ P = CH (CY=CY¹)q CONRR¹ (VI) (Z²)₂ P (→0) = CH (CY=CY¹)q CONRR¹ wherein Z² is alkyl, alkoxy or aryl, one of p and q is 1 and the other is 1 or 0. (c) by β-elimination from a compound of Formula (VII) or (VII): (VII) Q - X (CH₂)c (CH=CH)d-1 CEY-CE¹Y¹-CONRR¹ (VIII) Q - X (CH₂)c CEY -CE¹Y¹ (CY=CY¹)d-1 CONRR¹ wherein one of E and E¹ is hydrogen and the other is a leaving group D (→0)L, where D is sulphur or selenium and L is lower alkyl or aryl; (d) when Q is a group (A), by reacting a compound of Formula (IX) with a compound of Formula (X): (IX) R⁴C(O) (CH₂)b X (CH₂)c (CY=CY¹)d CONRR¹ (X) (Z³)₃P =CR²R³ wherein Z³ is alkyl, alkoxy, aryl or N(alkyl)₂; (e) when Q is a group (A), by reacting a compound of Formula (XI) with a compound of Formula (XII) (XI) A′ (CH₂)c (CY=CY¹)d CONRR¹ (XII) R² (CR³=CR⁴)a(CH₂)b-Z⁵ where A¹ is a leaving group such as halide (eg bromide or iodide) and Z⁵ is a suitable metal or Z⁵ is OM where M is hydrogen or a suitable metal; (f) by reaction of a compound of Formula (XIII) with a compound of Formula (XIV):- (XIII) Q - X (CH₂)c -Hal (XIV) HC≡C(CY-CY¹)d-1 CONRR¹ wherein Hal is a halogen atom, followed by reduction of the triple bond, for example by hydrogenation; (g) by reaction of a compound of Formula (XV) with a compound of Formula (XVI) (XV) Q X (CH₂)c CY=CY¹-M¹ (XVI) Hal-(CY-CY¹)d-1 CONRR¹ wherein Hal is halide and M¹ is a metal atom or metal group; or (h) when Q is optionally substituted alkynyl, by reaction of a compound of Formula (XVII) with a compound of Formul (XVIII) or (XIX): (XVII) M¹-C≡C-(CH₂)m -X-(CH₂)c (CY=CY¹)d CONRR¹ (XVIII) R¹⁰-Z⁴ (XIX) (R¹⁰)₃B where M¹ is a metal, Z⁴ is a leaving group, B is boron and R¹⁰ is hydrogen, halo, cyano, tri-alkyl silyl, alkyl or cycloalkyl. 12. A pesticidal composition comprising a compound according to any one of claims 1 to 10. 13. A method of combatting insect, acarine or fungal pests by application of a compound according to any one of claims 1 to 10 or a composition according to claim 12. 14. A compound of Formula (II) as defined above. 15. Any novel feature or combination of features disclosed herein. Claims for the following contracting states: Austria and Spain 1. A process for preparing a compound of Formula (I): (I) Q-X-(CH₂)c(CY=CY¹)dCONRR¹ wherein X is -CH₂-or -O- c = 0 to 10 d = 1 or 2 each of Y and Y¹ is independently selected from hydrogen, C1-4 alkyl and halo-­ (C1-4) alkyl; R and R¹ are independently selected from hydrogen, alkyl, amino-alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl and cycloalkyl, (any of which may be substituted by one or more of alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkoxy, halo, halo-alkyl and cyano), halo, cyano and dioxalanylalkyl, except that R¹ and R² are not both cyano or both halo; Q is alkoxy, cycloalkyl or branched alkyl (each optionally substituted by one or more of cycloalkenyl, phenyl, halo and cyano) or straight chain alkyl (substituted by one or more of alkynyl, halo or alkoxy) or alkynyl (optionally substituted by halo, cyano, trialkylsilyl, alkyl or cycloalkyl) or Q is a group (A): (A) R²-(CR³=CR⁴)a-(CH₂)b- a = 1 or 2 b = 0 to 4; and R², R³ and R⁴ are on each occurrence independently selected from hydrogen, cyano, halo, alkoxy, alkoxycarbonyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkyl (any of which may be optionally substituted by one or more of halo, alkoxy, cyano and alkoxy), acyl or a group -S(→0)n R⁵ where R⁵ is alkyl and n is 0 to 2, or alternatively R² and R³ or R³ and R⁴ together form part of an alicyclic 3 to 6 membered ring and the remainder of R² to R⁴ are as defined above, by (a) amidation of the corresponding acid or acid derivative, ie by reaction of a compound of Formula (II) with a compound of Formula (III): (II) Q - X (CH₂)c (CY=CY¹)d COZ¹ (III) NHRR¹ where Z¹ is hydroxy, alkoxy, alkoxy, halo or a phosphoroimidate ester group and the other variables are as defined above; (b) reaction of a compound of Formula (IV) with a compound of Formula (V) or (VI): (IV) Q X (CH₂)c (CY=CY¹)pCHO (V) (Z²)₃ P = CH (CY=CY¹)q CONRR¹ (VI) (Z²)₂ P (→0) = CH (CY=CY¹)q CONRR¹ wherein Z² is alkyl, alkoxy or aryl, one of p and q is 1 and the other is 1 or 0. (c) by β-elimination from a compound of Formula (VII) or (VIII): (VII) Q - X (CH₂)c (CH=CH)d-1 CEY-CE¹Y¹-CONRR¹ (VIII) Q - X (CH₂)c CEY -CE¹Y¹ (CY=CY¹)d-1 CONRR¹ wherein one of E and E¹ is hydrogen and the other is a leaving group D (→0)L, where D is sulphur or selenium and L is lower alkyl or aryl; (d) when Q is a group (A), by reacting a compound of Formula (IX) with a compound of Formula (X): (IX) R⁴C(O) (CH₂)b X (CH₂)c (CY=CY¹)d CONRR¹ (X) (Z³)₃P =CR² R³ wherein Z³ is alkyl, alkoxy, aryl or N(alkyl)₂; (e) when Q is a group (A), by reacting a compound of Formula (XI) with a compound of Formula (XII) (XI) A′ (CH₂)c (CY=CY¹)d CONRR¹ (XII) R² (CR³=CR⁴)a(CH₂)b-Z⁵ where A′ is a leaving group such a halide (e.g. bromide or iodide) and Z⁵ is a suitable metal or Z⁵ is OM where M is hydrogen or a suitable metal; (f) by reaction of a compound of Formula (XIII) with a compound of Formula (XIV):- (XIII) Q - X (CH₂)c -Hal (XIV) HC$C(CY=CY¹)d-1 CONRR¹ wherein Hal is a halogen atom, followed by reduction of the triple bond, for example by hydrogenation; (g) by reaction of a compound of Formula (XV) with a compound of Formula (XVI) (XV) Q X (CH₂)c CY=CY¹-M¹ (XVI) Hal-(CY=CY¹)d-1 CONRR¹ wherein Hal is halide and M¹ is a metal atom or metal group; or (h) when Q is optionally substituted alkynyl, by reaction of a compound of Formula (XVII) with a compound of Formul (XVIII) or (XIX): (XVII) M¹-C$C-(CH₂)m -X-(CH₂)c (CY=CY¹)d CONRR¹ (XVIII) R¹⁰-Z⁴ (XIX) (R¹⁰)₃B where M¹ is a metal, Z⁴ is a leaving group, B is boron and R¹⁰ is hydrogen, halo, cyano, tri-alkyl silyl, alkyl or cycloalkyl. 2. A process according to claim 1 wherein only one of R and R¹ is hydrogen. 3. A process according to claim 1 or 2 wherein R is hydrogen and R¹ is alkyl. 4. A process according to claim 3 wherein R¹ is C1-5 alkyl or C1-5 alkenyl and d is 2. 5. A process according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the or each olefinic group conjugated to the amide carbonyl group is of E configuration. 6. A process according to any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein, when d=2, the carbon atom at the 3 position relative to the amide carbonyl is substituted by methyl or is unsubstituted and the remainder of Y and Y¹ are hydrogen. 7. A process according to any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein Q is a group (A) as defined above and R² and R³ are each chloro or fluoro. 8. A process according to claim 1 wherein the compound prepared is isobutyl (2E, 4E)-11,11-difluoro-2,4,10-trienamide. 9. A process according to any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein Q is optionally substituted alkynyl. 10. A process according to claim 9 wherein Q is trimethylsilylethynyl or tertiary-butyl ethynyl. 11. A process for preparing a pesticidal formulation containing as active ingredient a compound of Formula (I) which comprises bringing into intimate admixture a compound of Formula (I) as defined in claim 1 and one or more carriers or diluents. 12. A pesticidal formulation comprising a compound of Formula (I) prepared according to any of claims 1 to 10, and one or more carriers or diluents. 13. A method of combatting insect, acarine, or fungal pests by applying to the pest or its environment a compound prepared according to any of claims 1 to 10 or a formulation according to either of claims 11 or 12.

Inventors: BLADE, ROBERT JOHN, CROMBIE, LESLIE, HORSHAM, MARK ANDREW, PARKIN, DONALD
Applicants: THE WELLCOME FOUNDATION LIMITED
Application year: 1986
Main classification: C07C233
IPC codes: A01N37, C07C233, C07F7, A01N55, A01N43, A01N49, A01N41, A01N47