Abstract: Included is the oxydehydrogenation of saturated dinitriles, for example, succinonitrile, to prepare unsaturated dinitriles, for example, fumaronitrile and maleonitrile. Succinonitrile can be oxydehydrogenated by passing it in a vapor phase over a calcined calcium nickel phosphate catalyst, and the selectivity to fumaronitrile can be varied by the presence of water vapor in the vapor phase feed mixture.

Abstract: A process for preparing an unsaturated aliphatic nitrile comprising contacting a saturated aliphatic nitrile with oxygen in the presence of a carbon catalyst under conditions such that the unsaturated aliphatic nitrile is formed. A preferred form of the catalyst is a carbon prepared by the pyrolysis of a synthetic polymer. Unsaturated aliphatic nitriles, such as acrylonitrile, fumaronitrile and maleonitrile, are prepared in high selectivity by this process.

Abstract: A building structure comprises first and second truss members having cross-members extending therebetween. Each truss member has a generally I-shaped cross-section, of generally constant cross-sectional dimensions, defining elongate longitudinal channels. The longitudinal channels are sized to appropriately receive and retain ends of cross-members extending between the truss members. Supports mounted in the longitudinal channels form receiving pockets which are engaged by the cross-members. A plurality of truss members, formed as parallel arches, may be utilized to form a load-bearing framing structure of a completed building, which may be enclosed by wall coverings such as panelling, siding, plywood or the like. The absence of load-bearing sidewalls permit doors, windows, deck units or the like to be easily introduced into sidewalls.

Abstract: Fumaronitrile or maleonitrile in a nitrile solvent in the presence of a base isomerizes to its geometric isomer. This process is particularly useful for the preparation of maleonitrile by the isomerization of fumaronitrile in acetonitrile in the presence of solid potassium hydroxide. The unreacted fumaronitrile and acetonitrile may be recycled.

Abstract: An alumina support which contains cesium is prepared by adding a fusible compound of cesium to alumina along with known binders and porosity control agents. The cesium compound should be fusible below the temperature at which the alumina fuses. Such a support is especially useful as a support for a silver catalyst employed in the oxidation of ethylene to ethylene oxide.

Abstract: An improved process of making a silver catalyst which comprises impregnating a suitable support with an aqueous ammoniacal solution of a silver salt of an organic carboxylic acid and reducing said salt in the presence of a polyhydroxy compound.