Abstract: The invention relates to a method for catalytically condensing organic compounds containing at least one oxo and/or hydroxyl function into CH acidic compounds and/or coupling said organic compounds to the CH acidic compounds in the presence of a catalyst which comprises an active carbon substrate provided with a metal. The method is suitable in particular for generating higher alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, and/or alkanes as well as mixtures thereof.

Abstract: In order to enlarge the surface of particles which absorb liquids at least o a limited extent, the particles are exposed to a liquid or to a humid atmosphere containing this liquid at least until said liquid has penetrated into the area of the particles close to their surface, and the liquid-containing particles are then irradiated with micro-waves until the penetrated liquid evaporates. The surface of the particles is torn down to the depth of penetration of the liquid and thus enlarged, or the particles break up, creating small broken pieces with an irregular and enlarged surface.