Abstract: The present invention describes a high yield and simplified method of preparing phenols and carbonyl compounds, such as acetaldehyde, through the catalytic decomposition of aromatic hydroperoxides. The synthetic process generally consists of decomposing hydroperoxides under a positive gas atmosphere and at an elevated temperature (80 to 100° C.) in the presence of a catalytic amount (0.01-0.8 mass percent (%)) of an anionic surface-active agent of the formula R—OSO3M or R—OP3Z2, where “M” is Na or K, where “Z” is Na, K or an alkyl groups containing between ten and fourteen carbons (C10-C14) and where “R” is an alkyl group consisting of between ten and fourteen carbons (C10-C14).

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of providing enhanced molecular stability to hydrocarbons, such as the various oils, lubricants, fuel and rubbers typically used in internal combustion engines. The invention generally comprises inhibiting the liquid phase oxidation of hydrocarbons by atmospheric oxygen at elevated temperatures through the micro-addition of non-toxic of alkyl organic additives. The alkyl organic additives are anionic surface active agents (ASAAs) of the general formula R—OSO3M or R—OP3Z2, where “M” is Na or K, where “Z” is Na, K or an alkyl group containing between ten and fourteen carbons and where “R” is an alkyl group consisting of between six and sixteen carbons. The additives are generally used in quantities from 0.01 to 10 mass percent, at temperatures between 70°-170° C. and in the presence of an aromatic solvent.