Abstract: Anionic surface active agents of the general formulae I and II ##STR1## where R.sup.1 is C.sub.1-12 alkyl;A is --(CH.sub.2).sub.n -- (wherein n is 0-6), --CH.dbd.CH--, phenylene, or alkylphenylene;x is an integer of 3 to 35;R.sup.2 is C.sub.8-12 alkyl or alkenyl;Z is --(CH.sub.2 CH.sub.2 O).sub.x H or ##STR2## where x is as defined above; and the salts thereof with inorganic or organic bases.These surfactants have excellent surface active properties and hard water tolerance, and may be prepared by conventional esterification techniques.

Abstract: The invention concerns a new process for the preparation of biologically active 2-[(alkoxycarbonyl)amino]-5-(alkylthio)-1H-benzimidazoles of the general formula (V) ##STR1## wherein R and R.sup.1 independently stand for alkyl having 1 to 3 carbon atoms.

Abstract: This invention relates to a process for the preparation of aluminum alloys having a high reducing capacity for use in reductions in organic chemistry. According to this method a discontinuous heterodisperse superficial alloy is formed by subjecting an aluminum alloy prepared by a metallurgical process to superficial activation and/or treating aluminum with a salt of a metal having a greater normal electrode potential than that of aluminum; whereby the solution of said metal in a protic solvent is reacted with granular aluminum and/or an aluminum alloy. The catalyst prepared according to the invention is especially suitable for the reduction of a nitro or nitroso group into an amino group. The aluminum alloys having a high reducing capacity are also within the scope of the invention.

Abstract: Compounds of the formula, ##SPC1##WhereinR.sup.1 and R.sup.2 each stand for hydrogen or a group of the generalformula --(CH.sub.2).sub.n --SO.sub.3 H,n is an integer between 1 and 5, andR.sup.3 stands for an alkyl group,As well as the salts and quaternary salts thereof have been prepared by various methods. The new compounds according to the invention possess valuable fungicidal and/or ovicidal properties, and can be used as active ingredients of plantbiological compositions, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, respectively.