Abstract: The present invention relates to a polymeric composition suitable for use in films, molded articles and fibers, including microdenier fibers. The polymeric composition comprises a thermoplastic resin in an amount from about 50 weight percent to about 99.9 weight percent of the polymeric composition, and a dye composition in an amount from about 0.1 weight percent to about 50 weight percent of the polymeric composition. The dye composition contains an indanthrone compound as a major component.

Abstract: A vapor phase process for the carbonylation of lower alkyl alcohols to esters and optionally, carboxylic acids using a catalyst containing iridium and at least one second metal selected from the Lanthanide Series. Desirably, the iridium and secondary metal are deposited on activated carbon as a support material. In a preferred aspect of the invention, the vapor phase process is useful for preparing acetic acid, methyl acetate or a mixture thereof by contacting the catalyst with a vapor comprising methanol, a halide and carbon monoxide under carbonylation process conditions.