Abstract: An improved animal feed supplement having reduced corrosion characteristics is obtained by forming an aqueous solution containing 87-90 percent by weight 2-hydroxy-4-(methylthio)-butanoic acid and partially neutralizing the solution to a pH of 0.9-1.2.

Abstract: The storage life of foods and feeds is extended by treating same with acyloxyalkenoic acids, especially a mixture of acetoxyhexenoic acids. The acyloxyalkenoic acids are shown to inhibit pathogens and food spoilage organisms in laboratory culture media and foodstuffs.

Abstract: Certain furanones are shown to inhibit growth of food poisoning organisms in laboratory culture media.

Abstract: Adhesive compositions providing high bond strength, long shelf life, desirable flow characteristics and end use versatility are prepared by mixing a copolymer of olefinic monomers including maleic anhydride and/or derivatives thereof, plasticizer and at least one monofunctional compound which reacts with the copolymer to render it soluble in the resulting mixture and substantially soluble in the plasticizer. Water based, hot melt and pressure sensitive embodiments of such compositions are included.

Abstract: Elastomeric polymers are rendered more tractable, thereby decreasing the amount of vehicle or heat required for vehicle- or melt-deposition, while resulting in very little or no loss of strength of the polymer, by the use of at least one compound comprising at least three hydrocarbon rings including at least one aromatic ring and, in most embodiments, at least one saturated ring free to rotate independently of at least one aromatic ring in the molecule of that compound. Compositions comprising an elastomeric polymer and at least one such compound are especially attractive for use in solvent, latex and/or hot melt adhesive compositions.

Abstract: Including an aminophosphonate and a hydroxyphosphonate in an aqueous bath in which a textile material is dyed with a water-insoluble (e.g. disperse) dye results in improved dyeing (uniformity, water-fastness, etc.) and, in dyeing of polyester fiber, eliminates the need for use of a swelling agent.

Abstract: Copolymers are prepared from .omega.-bromoalkyl ester of acyclic unsaturated dicarboxylic acids and compounds copolymerizable therewith. The copolymers are useful as flame retardant plasticizers for polymers.