Abstract: A process for removing sulfur compounds from a liquid composition immiscible with water, comprising at least partially oxidizing the sulfur compounds by contacting a liquid composition comprising at least one sulfur compound with an aqueous oxidizing solution comprising at least one oxidant in the presence of at least one polyoxometalate and amphiphilic solid particles.

Abstract: A process for removing sulfur compounds from a liquid composition immiscible with water, comprising at least partially oxidizing the sulfur compounds by contacting a liquid composition comprising at least one sulfur compound with an aqueous oxidizing solution comprising at least one oxidant in the presence of at least one polyoxometalate and amphiphilic solid particles.

Abstract: An amorphous catalyst support comprising at least a first oxide selected from the group consisting of: silica, germanium oxide, titanium oxide, zirconium oxide or mixtures thereof, preferably silica gel beads or diatomaceous earth; a group 3 metal oxide; and anions in an amount not greater than 10% by weight of the catalyst support; wherein the group 3 metal oxide is incorporated in the first oxide structure at the molecular level. The catalyst support is prepared by (a) mixing the first oxide, with an anhydrous source of the group 3 metal oxide, and water, at a pH above 11, thus forming a suspension, (b) washing the catalyst support with water, (c) separating the catalyst support from the water, and (d) optionally drying and/or calcining the catalyst support. A catalyst based on such a support has improved catalytic properties.