Abstract: A method of producing aluminum castings which includes the steps of casting a molten alloy, contacting the surface of the molten alloy with a humidified atmosphere and solidifying the alloy. The method is particularly suited for aluminum-magnesium alloys such as AA 5XXX and 7XXX series alloys. In addition to reducing the thickness of the surface oxide layer formed during casting, the method also provides improved surface quality of cast products and reduces subsequent remedial re-work or scalping. An improved aluminum-magnesium cast alloy product is also disclosed.

Abstract: Alpha alumina particles are made by heating particles of alumina with an aqueous solution containing a dissolved fluorine-containing compound and an acid; separating the particles from the solution and then calcining the particles at a temperature not greater than about 1025° C. The alumina particles preferably have an LOI in the range of about 1-20 wt. %; more preferably about 1-6 wt. %. Alpha alumina particles of the invention are more readily ground into smaller particles than alpha alumina particles made by calcining at higher temperatures. The remaining soda in the alpha alumina is found to be highly soluble in hot water. The process produces low soda content (0.01 wt. % Na2O or less) alpha alumina crystals from alumina feedstocks with 0.5 wt. % or more initial soda levels. The alpha alumina crystals produced are as large as 30-40 microns. Most typically; the size range is between 2 and 8 microns.

Abstract: A method for making an essentially unsaturated synthetic meixnerite with high CO.sub.2 adsorption abilities. The method comprises activating hydrotalcite, then cooling and rehydrating such activated material in a carbon dioxide-free environment. The resultant material can absorb more than 10 milliliters of CO.sub.2 per gram.

Abstract: A method for making a synthetic mixed metal oxide or meixnerite which, when activated, has a high B.E.T. surface area, typically about 290 m.sup.2 /g or greater. The method comprises activating hydrotalcite, then cooling and hydrating such activated material with a metal salt solution in a carbon dioxide-free environment. Such hydration can produce a material that absorbs more than 100% of its weight in water. Following hydration, this material is activated a second time in a virtually carbon dioxide-free environment. Such reactivation decomposes the salt and leaves a supported metal oxide readily available to be used for catalyst reactions.

Abstract: A method for making a synthetic meixnerite which, when activated, has a high B.E.T. surface area, typically about 290 m.sup.2 /g or greater. The method comprises activating hydrotalcite, then cooling and hydrating such activated material in a carbon dioxide-free environment. Such hydration can produce a material that absorbs more than 100% of its weight in water. Following hydration, this material is activated a second time in a virtually carbon dioxide-free environment.

Abstract: A method of producing small diameter titanium carbide whiskers is disclosed. The method comprises supplying a source of materials comprised of titanium halide, hydrocarbon gas and nickel and reacting this material in the presence of a source of carbon monoxide to produce small diameter titanium carbide whiskers.