Abstract: A process for the direct oxidation of isobutane or propane to methacrylic acid or acrylic acid respectively is disclosed. The process encompasses contacting a feed gas containing isobutane or propane and oxygen with a specific catalyst which is composed of molybdenum, antimony and phosphorus combined with oxygen. The atomic ratio of molybdenum to antimony to phosphorous is from about 9 to about 24; about 0.25 to about 2; and about 0.75 to about 2 respectively. The catalytic oxidation to methacrylic or acrylic acid is accomplished at a temperature of from about 200.degree. C. to about 450.degree. C. The methacrylic or acrylic acid is removed from the feed gases exiting from the reaction zone and the remainder of the exited feed stream may be recycled to again contact the catalyst.

Abstract: Hard, infusible, discrete beads of crosslinked copolymer are prepared by free-radical catalyzed polymerization of a monomer mixture in aqueous dispersion wherein a minor amount of a modifier, specifically an organic compound containing acetylenic or allylic unsaturation having the ability to moderate the rate of polymerization, is incorporated in the monomer mixture. Ion exchange resins having improved mechanical strength are obtained by attaching functional groups to the copolymer.