Abstract: Organosilicon-functional phase transfer catalysts (PTCs) and methods for transferring immiscible molecules into a silicon-functional phase employing an organosilicon-functional PTC are provided.

Abstract: The esterification of a carboxylic or polycarboxylic acid, such as terephthalic acid, with ethylene oxide is conducted in the presence of a supercritical or near critical fluid with an esterification catalyst to form a monoester such as 2-hydroxyethylterephthalate (MHET). The monoester can be easily removed from the involatile terephthalic acid/catalyst bed by continuous extraction with supercritical fluid before subsequent reaction to the diester occurs. The esterification catalyst, such as quaternary ammonium salts, are at least substantially insoluble in the supercritical fluid and capable of withstanding prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures. The process is highly selective to formation of monoesters, and economical. The process can be modified for production of bis-esters or higher esters. The monoesters are polymerizable and can be used as monomers in the production of polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate.

Abstract: A container complying with ANSI.RTM. N14.1 for containing uranium hexafluoride (UF.sub.6) which minimizes entrapment of contaminants, thereby increasing the decontaminability of the container. The container includes a cylindrical shell welded to two cylinder heads wherein the weld inside the container provides a smooth transition between the heads and the shell while complying with ANSI.RTM. N14.1. The heads and the shell each have an annular land. A plasma weld fully penetrates the opposing lands to join the heads and the shell. No backup bar is used during the welding process.