Abstract: A process for the generation of halogens from halide-containing solutions includes the step of conducting electrolysis of the solutions in an electrolytic cell having a platinum based amorphous metal alloy anode having the formulaPt.sub.p A.sub.a D.sub.dwhereA is Cr, Mo, W, Fe, Os, Cu, Ni, Ag, V, Au and mixtures thereof;D is B, Si, Al, Ge, P, As, Sb, Sn and mixtures thereof;p ranges from about 40 to 92;a ranges from about 0 to 40; andd ranges from about 8 to 60, with the proviso that p+a+d=100.Such amorphous metal alloy anodes are also based on the formulaPt.sub.p E.sub.e F.sub.fwhereE is Cr, Mo, W, Fe, Os, Ir, Cu, Ni, Rh, Pd, Ag, Ti, Ru, Nb, V, Ta, Au and mixtures thereof;F is B, Al, Ge, As, Sb, Sn and mixtures thereof;p ranges from about 40 to 92;e ranges from about 0 to 40; andf ranges from about 8 to 60, with the proviso that p+e+f=100.

Abstract: Catalysts comprising the mixed oxides of ruthenium, palladium or platinum and alkali metals are provided which are useful in the subject process for the upgrading of synthesis gas, particularly for obtaining alkanes and alcohols having at least two carbon atoms, in addition to methane and methanol. Also provided is a temperature gradient reactor useful in synthesis gas upgrading reactions for increasing selectivity to higher carbon number products.

Abstract: Thin films of Hg.sub.1-x Cd.sub.x Te with controlled x greater than 0.5 are cathodically deposited on a thin CdS film over a conductive film of ITO deposited on a glass substrate. Depositing a conductive film on the electrodeposited Hg.sub.1-x Cd.sub.x Te treated to provide a Te-rich surface for a good ohmic contact forms an improved solar cell.

Abstract: Amorphous metal alloy powders are synthesized by solid state decomposition reactions. At least one precursor compound is thermally decomposed at a temperature below the crystallization temperature of the amorphous metal alloy to be formed. The decomposition product comprises an intimate mixture of the elements of the alloy and, after heat-treating if necessary, exhibits amorphous characteristics.

Abstract: A process is provided for the thermochemical conversion of biomass to useful gaseous and liquid organic products. The inventive process utilizes a catalyst to obtain increased yields of gaseous and liquid organic products and decreased yields, if any, of solid and semisolid tar/oils.

Abstract: A process for the selective hydrocarboxylation of propylene to produce predominantly isobutyric acid in the liquid phase is provided. The reaction of propylene, carbon monoxide and water wherein a water to propylene ratio is maintained of from about 0.01 to a value less than 1.0 is effected at a temperature of about 75.degree. C. to about 150.degree. C. and at a pressure of about 250 psi to about 5000 psi in the presence of a carboxylic acid solvent and a catalyst comprising a coordinating palladium compound, an organo-arsine and a hydrogen halide.