Abstract: A process is disclosed for the improvement of fluid bed vanadium phosphorus mixed oxide catalyst performance in the manufacture of maleic anhydride from butane, which process comprises impregnating the VPO catalyst powder with a phosphorus compound, such as an alkyl ester of orthophosphoric acid and then using this impregnated catalyst powder to provide phosphorus to the maleic anhydride producing catalyst.

Abstract: A process for the destruction of organic wastes and ammonia from acrylonitrile plant wastewater, comprising contacting volatilized wastewater with a catalyst at an elevated temperature so as to convert volatile organic compounds and ammonia to a mixture comprising hydrogen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide which are separated and removed from the stream, yielding a purified aqueous stream, substantially free of organic compounds and ammonia.

Abstract: A process for the destruction of organic contaminants from wastewater streams and solid surfaces, including soil. The process comprises removing volatile organic compounds from the wastewater stream or surface by steam stripping and then contacting a stream comprising steam and the stripped organic compounds with a catalyst at an elevated temperature so as to convert the hydrocarbon portion of the organic compounds to a mixture of hydrogen and carbon dioxide.

Abstract: A catalyst system for the conversion of synthesis gas in a single stage to liquid hydrocarbons comprises(a) a copper-containing alcohol synthesis catalyst,(b) an iron-containing modifier for the alcohol synthesis catalyst to promote the formation of hydrocarbons, and(c) a metallosilicate wax cracking catalyst.The alcohol synthesis catalyst (a) can contain thorium, zinc, uranium or zirconium in addition to the copper.The iron-containing modifier (b) can contain an iron-containing zeolite such as ferrierite or an inorganic support containing ferrous or ferric ions. The metallosilicate can be a zeolite or gallosilicate. The zeolite can have a pore diameter of at least 5 Angstroms and can have the faujasite structure. A Group VIIIA metal e.g., Pd may be incorporated on the zeolite to suppress coke formation.A hydrocarbon product from the conversion can be obtained containing at least 70 percent by weight of hydrocarbons in the range C.sub.3 to a boiling point of 340.degree. C.

Abstract: Methanol is converted into alcohols containing at least two carbon atoms by reaction with hydrogen and/or carbon monoxide at elevated temperature and superatmospheric pressure in the presence, as catalyst, of (i) an oxide of Th and/or U and (ii) one or more alkali metals the latter being present in an amount of at least 1% by weight. Preferably the catalyst is free of hydrogenating metals. The methanol can be prepared by reaction of hydrogen and carbon monoxide in the presence of a methanol-forming catalyst.