Abstract: Hydrogen bis(oxalato)borate of the formula ##STR1## is used as a protonic acid catalyst in condensation reactions, such as Friedel-Crafts condensations, vinyl ether condensations of acetals with vinyl or propenyl ethers and acylations of phenols. The products of such condensations are, for example, dihydro-vitamin K.sub.1 monobenzoate, d,l-.alpha.-tocopherol, various intermediates in the synthesis of carotenoids as well as d,l-.alpha.-tocopherol acetate. As a result of the use in accordance with the invention of hydrogen bis(oxalato)borate various disadvantages associated with the use of other protonic acid catalysts, e.g. problems with corrosion, toxicity and environmental contamination, are avoided. The novel catalyst has advantages with respect to selectivity, yields, amounts required as well as working up after completion of the respective condensation.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a process for the catalytic oxidation of an isoprenoid containing at least one allylic hydrogen atom, which process comprises reacting the isoprenoid with oxygen or an oxygen-containing gas in an inert solvent in the presence of a N-hydroxydicarboxylic acid imide of the formula ##STR1## wherein A-B stands for CH.sub.2 -CH.sub.2, CH.dbd.CH, an aromatic hydrocarbon residue or a group derived from one of these groups in which one or more hydrogen atoms is/are replaced by alkyl or halogen,to produce a primary of secondary hydroperoxide.The process of the invention is suitable for the manufacture of steroids, vitamins, odorant substances, carotinoids and the like.

Abstract: A degradation product of ascorbic acid or isoascorbic acid obtained by heating the acid at a temperature between about 70.degree. C. and about 210.degree. C. until partial or complete decomposition of the acid occurs, useful in admixture with various nitrate-containing oxidation agents as an explosive and propellant material for a wide range of specific applications.

Abstract: The carbonyl compounds 5,6-carbonyl-ascorbic acid and 5,6-carbonyl-erythorbic acid been found useful for the preparation of explosive and propellant materials by admixing them with nitrate-containing oxidation agents and optionally further ingredients.