Abstract: A process for the hydroformylation of terminally unsaturated olefinic compounds by carrying out the hydroformylation under a continuously decreasing partial pressure of carbon monoxide to achieve a high linear to branched-chain ratio of aldehydes without a reduction in reaction rate, said process comprising conducting the hydroformylation at an initial total carbon monoxide and hydrogen pressure of from 40 to 500 psia the mole ratio of hydrogen to carbon monoxide being 1:1 or greater and adjusting downward the partial pressure of CO continuously until at least a 25% reduction in the partial pressure of carbon monoxide in the range of from 1 to 40 psi absolute is reached.

Abstract: This invention provides a method for monitoring early formation of cracks in permeable or porous materials which comprises affixing a frangible fluid impermeable enclosure to the permeable or porous surface to be monitored such that a crack forming in the permeable material will destroy the integrity of the frangible fluid impermeable enclosure and provide a passage for a fluid to flow between the environment and the enclosed space, then sealing a fluid passageway in fluid communication from the enclosed space to a source of pressure different than ambient at the permeable material and to a pressure sensor; then imparting a pressure different than ambient to the enclosed space through the fluid passageway and thereafter monitoring the internal pressure in the enclosed space and fluid passageway with a pressure sensor such that a crack in the permeable material will destroy the integrity of the enclosed space and allow passage of fluid between the environment and the enclosed space which is detected by the pre

Abstract: Alcohols and/or alpha, beta or alpha, gamma diols having at least four carbon atoms are reacted with aldehyde or dialdehyde compounds at a temperature ranging from 0.degree. - 100.degree. C in the presence of an acid catalyst to produce an organic-aqueous two-phase liquid product containing the acetal in the organic phase.

Abstract: A gangway for transferring personnel between a ship and a fixed structure is formed by first and second mating extensible members which are arranged to form a platform. Springs are mounted inside the platform which permit the first and second members to elongate or shorten about a neutral point in order to accommodate a movement of the ship during heavy seas. Attaching devices are provided in each end of the gangway to secure it to the ship and to the fixed structure, respectively. An elastic tread can be placed on the gangway so that, when the gangway elongates or shortens, personnel walking on the gangway will not be injured or lose footing. A plurality of hoops can be attached along the gangway with elastic material stretched between the hoops and covering same so that, should personnel momentarily lose their footing, they will not be thrown overboard.

Abstract: A portable apparatus for determining the moisture content in welding electrode coatings is described. The apparatus is suitable for field use, and comprises a source of low voltage direct current, a means for transforming low voltage direct current to high voltage direct current, an electrical circuit including a current indicating means and contacts attachable to a welding electrode whereby the welding electrode coating is included in the electrical circuit. A method of operating the apparatus to determine the amount of moisture in a welding electrode coating is also described.

Abstract: Submerged offshore steel platform joints are coated with concrete with the steel members between concrete-covered joints protected cathodically to prevent corrosion and corrosion fatigue. The combination allows more economical cathodic protection and extends the useful life of the submerged joints of the offshore structure.