Abstract: Porous granules that contain separate particles of alkali metal silicate and zeolite are stable and are efficient ion exchangers in aqueous effluents and/or solutions. Said granules are heated to provide the stability required so that even though some silicate may dissolve when the granules are exposed to water, the zeolite does not disperse throughout the water.

Abstract: A combination of an acidic functional polymer and zeolite and/or amorphous alumino silicate provides a gel suitable as a cosmetic vehicle plus supplying functionality as well. The components combine easily to provide a creamy gel that is compounded with other ingredients to provide the complete cosmetic composition. The zeolite or amorphous alumino silicate is present in a sufficient quantity to provide functionality as well as the desired rheology. The combination can be used to compound astringent creams or lotions, make-up bases, facial masks, deodorant compositions, antiperspirants, anti-acne compositions, wrinkle smoothers or erasers, pore minimizers, and body lotions. An especially useful zeolite or amorphous alumino silicate is a material that contains aluminum as the cation.

Abstract: Hollow fibers are prepared by spray drying a solution of a film-former in a volatile solvent. The viscosity of the solution must be 1.5 to 10 times the viscosity that usually results in spheres or microspheres. The preferred film-forming substance is a combination of sodium silicate and a "polysalt.

Abstract: Non-fused hollow glass microspheres that consist primarily of silicate are rendered more water-resistant by treatment with multivalent metals. The hollow microspheres are slurried with water and then a solution of a multivalent metal salt such as Al.sub.2 (SO.sub.4).sub.3 is added to the slurry. The rate of the addition is controlled so that the pH can be regulated. Separating, washing and drying complete the preparation.

Abstract: Amorphous, hydrated magnesium silicate is effective in reducing the concentration of various metal ions in aqueous solutions or effluent streams. Both mono- and multi-valent ions can be treated in this manner thereby providing a method of preventing release of metal ions to the environment. The method is especially efficient in removal of chrome values from effluents generated in chrome tanning operations. Efficient adsorption of the chrome requires that the pH of the effluent-magnesium silicate slurry be adjusted to or maintained at a value between 5.3 and 9.8. The chrome value may be recovered from the magnesium silicate by acidification of the complex.

Abstract: The recycle stream from chrome tanning baths can be treated with magnesium silicate to reduce the amount of suspended solids. The treated stream can be recycled more times, thereby providing a considerable savings of chrome values.