Abstract: A process for preparing polycarbonates according to the invention by melt polycondensation of aromatic dihydroxy compounds and carbonic acid diesters, is characterized by using an aromatic dihydroxy compound and a carbonic acid diester, wherein the combined content of hydrolyzable chlorine in those monomers falls within the particular range. Another process for preparing polycarbonates according to the invention by melt polycondensation of aromatic dihydroxy compounds and carbonic acid diesters, is characterized by using a catalyst comprising (a) a nitrogen containing basic compound and (b) aromatic hihydroxy compound of an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal compound, or (a) and (b) and (c) boric acid or boric ester.

Abstract: Thermoplastic compositions comprising polyphenylene ether resin and polyamide resin are disclosed. The compositions further include a compatibilizer component, and an additive combination which includes both a metal stearate and an amide compound.

Abstract: The invention relates to a polymer mixture which comprises a polyphenylene ether, a block copolymer, and a phosphate ester in a given ratio by weight. The polymer mixture according to the invention is particularly suitable as a material for cable sheaths.

Abstract: A process for producing expandable thermoplastic resin beads which comprises suspending in an aqueous medium interpolymer beads comprising a polyphenylene ether resin and a polymerized vinyl aromatic monomer such as styrene, polymerizing the vinyl aromatic monomer in the presence of a polymerization catalyst to interpolymerize the vinyl aromatic monomer with the polyphenylene ether and, optionally, adding a cross-linking agent, to form interpolymerized thermoplastic resin beads, and introducing a blowing agent under pressure into the thermoplastic resin beads. The resulting resin beads have excellent foamability and molding fusability, and a foamed shaped article having superior thermal stability can be prepared from these beads.