Abstract: A method of inducing surface ensembles on a transition metal catalyst used in the conversion of a reactant gas or gas mixture, such as carbon monoxide and hydrogen into hydrocarbons (the Fischer-Tropsch reaction) is disclosed which comprises adding a Lewis base to the syngas (CO+H.sub.2) mixture before reaction takes place. The formation of surface ensembles in this manner restricts the number and types of reaction pathways which will be utilized, thus greatly narrowing the product distribution and maximizing the efficiency of the Fischer-Tropsch reaction. Similarly, amines may also be produced by the conversion of reactant gas or gases, such as nitrogen, hydrogen, or hydrocarbon constituents.

Abstract: The invention relates to an improved method for synthesizing uranium hexamethoxide and new mixed methoxy uranium (VI) fluorides from uranium hexafluorides. Irradiation of the products of the invention in the vapor phase, with a pulsed CO.sub.2 gas laser leads to enrichment in the U-235 content of the isotopic mixture containing U-235 and U-238, the degree of enrichment depending upon the laser frequency employed.