Abstract: Epoxy compounds for use as epoxy resins are prepared from relatively inexpensive and renewable resources via a selective halogenation process. Primary pendant hydroxyl groups on straight carbon chain compounds with oxygen atoms pendant to each carbon are selectively halogenated with, for example, carbon tetrachloride. A scavenger agent, triphenylphosphine and pyridine, is used to complex the residual portion of reacted halogenating agent. One additional step with the halogenated intermediate yields epoxy compounds which, when cured, yield epoxy resins.

Abstract: The invention is a process for the preparation of a 1,4-lactone of 3,6-anhydrohexanoic acid which comprises refluxing a 1,4- or 1,5-lactone of pentahydroxyhexanoic acid, or an aqueous solution of pentahydroxyhexanoic acid in an organic reaction media which azeotropes with water in the presence of an inorganic acid, under conditions such that a 1,4-lactone of 3,6-anhydrohexanoic acid is formed.

Abstract: Polyurethane-type products are prepared by reacting a rigid diol such as a 1:4-3:6 dianhydrohexitol, such as isosorbide, with a polyisocyanate and, optionally, a polyahl. The high molecular weight polymers are easily prepared from renewable resources and exhibit good physical properties. The resulting polymer is suitably employed in the production of films, coatings, molded articles and foams.

Abstract: The invention is a polyurethane comprising the reaction product of(a) a 1,4-lactone of 3,6-anhydropentahydroxyhexanoic acid; and(b) an organic polyisocyanate.The polyurethanes of this invention are useful in coatings, compression moldings, control release systems, films, foams and the like.