Dimethylbiphenyls from toluene

Article Abstract:

Dimethylbiphenyls from toluene, a low-cost solvent, are discussed. The former are useful polymer feedstocks. In a 1997 challenge from KoSa (then Hoechst Celanese) work in this area had a beginning at Georgia Inst. of Technology. The goal was a commercially viable route to production of 4,4'-BBA at about $0.50/lb. Later the team worked in strong-acid catalysis and aromatic functionalization and recently developed highly stereospecific carbonylation of aromatic feedstocks, toluene being one. Topics include bibenzoate-based polymers, process economics and flowchart, process chemistry including toluene coupling over Pd(II) and isomerization of DMBP in triflic acid, and molecular modeling of isomerization, and 3,4'-BBA as a potential rigid-rod monomer.

Research, Product development, Economic aspects, Polymers, Materials, Palladium, Polymerization, Toluene, Isomerization, Catalysis, Biphenyl compounds, Biphenyls (Class of compounds), KoSa

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Eliminating asbestos from fireproofing materials

Article Abstract:

Eliminating asbestos by chemically digesting it, converting it to nonfibrous mineral phases, can make it possible to keep the fireproofing properties. The resulting material is not defined as asbestos-containing. and can remain in place. Excessive gaseous byproducts are not produced, and the foam delivery system releases no airborne fibers. An X-ray diffraction method can be used to measure chryrsotile levels with much precision. W.R. Grace & Co. markets the digestion agent, trade -named DMA.

Product information, Environmental aspects, W.R. Grace and Co., GRA, Asbestos, Fluorides, Acids, X-ray diffractometer, X-ray diffractometers, Fire resistant materials, Chrysotile

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The roads of opportunity

Article Abstract:

Students who want to move into both chemistry and writing and what opportunities might await them are discussed by a research chemist in the Pharmaceutical Analysis Dept. at Purdue Pharma LP. She recommends working in the field to move beyond the textbook/exam frame of mind and herself worked summers as an analytical technician, intern in the Additives Div., Ciba Geigy. Her progress to the point where she began working toward a technical writing master's degree is related.

Training, Employment, Chemists, Chemistry, Technical writing

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