Abstract: A method for producing chelate compounds is disclosed. A nitrogen source, an acidic source, and a first element source including sodium, chlorine, potassium, and/or lithium are received in a mixture. A second element source and water can also be received. The chelate compound can be optionally purified.

Abstract: A method for producing olefins using a carbon nanotube catalyst is disclosed. Initially, a hydrocarbon feedstock is received. The hydrocarbon feedstock, the carbon nanotube catalyst, and steam are mixed in a thermal cracking reactor. The mixture is heated in the thermal cracking reactor to a particular temperature. The olefins are then separated from the mixture. The carbon nanotube catalyst can include carbon nanotubes coated with M1xOy and modified with M2mOn. M1 can be either the element silicon or tungsten, x can be an integer that represents the oxidation number of M1, and y can an integer that represents the number of oxygen atoms required by the oxidation number of M1. M2 can be a metallic element, m can be an integer that represents the oxidation number of M2, and n can be an integer that represents the number of oxygen atoms required by the oxidation number of M2.

Abstract: Provided is a compound and methods for preparation thereof according to formula (I) where A1, A2, A3, and A4 are each a group containing 1 to 40 carbon atoms and at least one carboxylic group, R, R? and R? are each hydrogen or a group containing 1 to 80 carbon atoms, M is bivalent or an element capable of complexing with a pyrrole nitrogen atom, L is a linking group, B is a fullerene, and the compound is soluble in water.