Abstract: A composition for external use contains at least one active ingredient and a capped ethoxylated alcohol of the formula RO(EO).sub.x R.sup.1 where R and R.sup.1 are both hydrocarbon or substituted hydrocarbon and x is at least two. R is preferably a higher alkyl group and R.sup.1 is a lower alkyl group. X is preferably at least 4. The ethoxylated alcohol is typically used in an amount to provide a soothing effect. The ethoxylated alcohol may be incorporated into cosmetic or pharmaceutical compositions such as shaving cream, pre- and after-shave lotions, sunburn lotions, lotions and creams for chapped lips etc., insect bite lotions etc., mouth wash, and anti-perspirant.

Abstract: A metal extraction process in which an aqueous leach solution containing metal values is contacted with a solution, in a water-immiscible organic solvent, of an extracting agent where the aqueous leach solution contains a wetting agent in a concentration of not more than 0.1% by weight. Wetting agents which may be used include alkoxylated alcohols or phenols, especially alcohols condensed with both ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, and ethylene oxide/propylene oxide/ethylene oxide block copolymers. The wetting agent can be present at a concentration of 0.00001% w/v or less. The presence of the wetting agent may reduce the build up of solid as crud and/or may reduce entrainment of one phase in the other.

Abstract: A blend of mono- and dialkyl-1,4:3,6-dianhydrosorbitol is made by alkylation of 1,4:3,6-dianhydrosorbitol with dialkyl carbonate in the presence of a base catalyst. Mono- and dialkylated blends obtained therefrom are useful in plaque inhibiting dentrifice compositions.

Abstract: A new method for the preparation of acetals of long chain fatty aliphatic aldehydes and polyols containing four or more hydroxyl groups which produces the acetals in a relatively pure form by reaction in a mutual solvent, preferably a C.sub.1 to C.sub.4 fatty carboxylic acid. The `clean` acetals are useful emulsifying agents and their esters and polyalkoxy substituents are useful dispersants and surfactants for aqueous compositions.

Abstract: A new method for the preparation of acetals of long chain fatty aliphatic aldehydes and polyols containing four or more hydroxyl groups which produces the acetals in a relatively pure form by reaction in a mutual solvent, preferably a C.sub.1 to C.sub.4 fatty carboxylic acid. The `clean` acetals are useful emulsifying agents and their esters and polyalkoxy substituents are useful dispersants and surfactants for aqueous compositions.