Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the production of higher dialkyl carbonates corresponding to formula (I):(R.sup.1 O)(R.sup.2 O)CO (I)which R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 may be the same or different and represent a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated and/or alkoxylated alkyl group, by transesterification of lower dialkyl carbonates with higher alcohols in the presence of a catalyst. The process is characterized in that the transesterification is carried out in a column equipped with packings or internals through which the reactants flow in countercurrent to one another. Predominantly symmetrical dialkyl carbonates are obtained.

Abstract: A skin-moisture-regulating composition for cosmetic or dermatological preparations, the composition containing succinic acid derivatives corresponding to formula I:R.sup.1 O(C.sub.n H.sub.2n O).sub.x CO--CHR.sup.2 --CHR.sup.3 --CO(OC.sub.n H.sub.2n O).sub.y OR.sup.4 (I)wherein R.sup.1 is an alkyl, alkenyl, mono-or dihydroxyalkyl or hydroxyalkenyl group containing 6 to 22 carbon atoms, one of R.sup.2 and R.sup.3 is hydrogen and the other is an alkyl or alkenyl group containing 12 to 22 carbon atoms, n=2 or 3, x and y are average degrees of alkoxylation and have values of 0 to 20 and 1 to 20, respectively, and R.sup.4 is hydrogen or a group R.sup.1 O--(C.sub.n H.sub.2n O).sub.x --CO--CHR.sup.2 --CHR.sup.3 --CO--, or an alkyl, alkenyl, mono- or dihydroxyalkyl or hydroxyalkenyl group containing 6 to 22 carbon atoms.

Abstract: Fine-particle solids suspensions can be dewatered by a process in which dialkyl carbonates corresponding to formula (I) ##STR1## in which R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 independently of one another represent alkyl and/or alkenyl groups containing 1 to 22 carbon atoms andm and n independently of one another stand for 0 or numbers of 1 to 10,are used as auxiliaries. The auxiliaries are readily biodegradable, extremely low-foaming and are distinguished by a low solidification point.