Abstract: A novel class of chemically-modified vegetable oils is prepared by reacting epoxidized triglyceride oils with thiols. The resultant poly(hydroxy thioether) derivatives have utility as antiwear/antifriction additives for environmentally-friendly industrial oils and automotive applications.

Abstract: A magnetostrictive precipitation gage includes a catch tube having an upper opening configured to receive precipitation therein. A vertical magnetostrictive rod and corresponding magnetic float linearly displaceable thereon are used to determine the fluid level within the catch tube. More particularly, as the fluid level fluctuates in the catch tube, so will the vertical position of the float, which interacts magnetically with the magnetostrictive rod. Accordingly, the vertical position of the float may be detected to determine the fluid level within the catch tube, and calculations regarding precipitation may be performed.