Abstract: A catalyst, such as FeCl.sub.3, useful in the production of chlorinated hydrocarbons such as 1,1-dichloroethane is removed from the effluent of a process reactor and recycled. Hydrochloric acid is removed from the process stream resulting in the catalyst present in the process stream in solution precipitating out of solution. Then it can be removed from the process stream by conventional separation techniques. Alternatively, the catalyst present in the process stream as a solid, without the removal of HCl, is separated from the liquid present by means of a cyclone and recycled. In both cases, the catalyst retains its catalytic activity.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for removal of toxins and oil from cottonseed by contact of the toxin/oil containing cottonseed with a chlorinated hydrocarbon solvent and a protic or aprotic solvent. Batch, semicontinuous and continuous methods of contacting are also described.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for reducing the evolution of fine particles during the removal of a solvent from a mass of solid particles containing the fines or which solid particles are attritable to produce the fines in the prior treating steps and/or the solvent removal step. The process employs the addition of 1 to 20 percent by weight of water to the solid particles/solvent prior to or during the solvent removal operation.

Abstract: There is described a process based on unit operations conventionally employed but modified to enable the use of chlorinated solvents, particularly methylene chloride as the preferred solvent for extraction of the bitumen from the tar sands or shale. The process in general constitutes:I. an extraction operation wherein the tar sand is contacted with the chlorinated solvent, particularly methylene chloride, to extract (dissolve) the bitumen from the sand;II. a separation of the sand from the solvent bitumen extract;III. (a) recovery of the bitumen free of extractant; (b) recovery of the sand free of extractant.