Abstract: A method of producing a non-metal element or a metal or an alloy thereof from a halide or mixtures thereof. The halide or mixtures thereof are contacted with a stream of liquid alkali metal or alkaline earth metal or mixtures thereof in sufficient quantity to convert the halide to the non-metal or the metal or alloy and to maintain the temperature of the reactants at a temperature lower than the lesser of the boiling point of the alkali or alkaline earth metal at atmospheric pressure or the sintering temperature of the produced non-metal or metal or alloy. A continuous method is disclosed, particularly applicable to titanium.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method for a single application of wood bleach that improves the degree of whiteness, uniformity and depth of bleaching in the wood. The method includes the application of sufficient quantities of wood bleach to maintain an excess of liquid on the surface of wood for an extended time such as a minimum of 10 minutes to obtain penetration to a greater depth. Periodic motion of an abrasive powder, or an abrasive pad to continually relocate the excess bleach on the wood surface, either by machine or by hand, provides even distribution and eliminates the raised grain on the bleached wood. Another aspect to the invention is a single step process of bleaching and dyeing in which the dye is mixed in the bleach solution.