Abstract: A process for producing a polymer by polymerizing at least one fluorinated monomer in the presence of a radical initiator and a surfactant in a polymerization medium containing essentially only carbon dioxide. The surfactant is a functional (per)fluoropolyether having recurring units (R1) and at least one functional group containing a heteroatom other than fluorine, the recurring units containing at least one ether linkage in the main chain and at least one fluorine atom. Molded article containing the polymer obtained from the process.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a polymerization process including polymerizing at least one fluorinated monomer in the presence of a radical initiator and a surfactant in a polymerization medium containing carbon dioxide to provide a polymer product, characterized in that the surfactant is a functional (per)fluoropolyether, which is a polymer comprising recurring units (R1) and at least one functional group having a heteroatom other than fluorine, said recurring units having at least one ether linkage in the main chain and at least one fluorine atom (fluoropolyoxyalkene chain).

Abstract: A process is disclosed for separating low molecular weight components from complex aqueous organic mixtures. The process includes preparing a separation solution of supercritical carbon dioxide with an effective amount of an entrainer to modify the solvation power of the supercritical carbon dioxide and extract preselected low molecular weight components. The separation solution is maintained at a temperature of at least about 70.degree. C. and a pressure of at least about 1,500 psi. The separation solution is then contacted with the organic mixtures while maintaining the temperature and pressure as above until the mixtures and solution reach equilibrium to extract the preselected low molecular weight components from the organic mixtures. Finally, the entrainer/extracted components portion of the equilibrium mixture is isolated from the separation solution.

Abstract: A filter press type electrolytic cell for continuous operation with renewable sacrificial electrodes. Said device enables cells of the filter press type to be fitted with a sacrificial electrode formed from metallic particles or generally from particles which are consumed during the electrolysis, and which can be continuously renewed.The modified cells according to the invention can be used successfully for electro-organic processes.

Abstract: A process for the electrocarboxylation of carbonyl compounds, for producing .alpha.-hydroxycarboxylic acids by means of the reaction: ##STR1## The electrolysis of the carbonyl compound is conducted in a diaphragm-less cell with a soluble metal anode in the presence of a support electrolyte and an organic solvent into which carbon dioxide is bubbled.The complex salt obtained by the electrolysis is precipitated by treatment with a solvent, and is then separated and hydrolyzed to obtain the required acid.