Abstract: A method for purification of phenolic epoxy novolac or phenolic derivative epoxy resin intermediates is disclosed. At the time of manufacture, the epoxy resin is a flowing stream with a solvent and with impurities, typically being dispersed residual salt ions, particles of the catalyst used in the manufacturing process, and solidified polymer. The epoxy resin is mixed with water dispersed therethrough in droplet form. Then, the epoxy resin is flowed through an electrostatic coalescer means. The water droplets are coalesced and form a water phase in the bottom of the coalescing means, thereby picking up substantially all the impurities. As desired, two or more electrostatic coalescing means can be cascaded to obtain a desired degree of purification.

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.