Abstract: A new acetylenic composition, 3-(2-propynoxy)-2-propenoic acid, and its methods of preparation are described. Also, acetylenic compositions are described which are prepared by the process which comprises the steps of(a) reacting propargyl alcohol with an alkali metal permanganate in an aqueous alkaline solution,(b) filtering the reaction mixture, and(c) acidifying the filtrate with acid.The acetylenic compositions prepared in this manner are useful in aqueous acidic plating baths for the electrodeposition of a bright nickel or nickel-iron alloy on a substrate. Methods for the electrodeposition of nickel and nickel-iron alloys from such baths as well as additive compositions for forming the baths are described.