Abstract: The instant invention relates to surfactants having the following formula (I) wherein: each of Ra and Rb is a a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated, hydrocarbon chain, each of Rc and Rd is a alkyl chain having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, each of (E1) and (E2) is a divalent hydrocarbon radical, A is: a group a carboxylate group —COO? (optionally in all or part in the form —COOH); or a sulfonate group —SO3? (optionally in all or part in the form —SO3H). The invention also relate to the preparation of these surfactants and their use in oil extraction, especially in EOR applications.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a new process for synthesizing an amido alkyl betaine starting from a linear alcohol having from 8 to 22 carbon atoms, to an amido alkyl betaine prepared by the process with increased viscosity in water, and also to use thereof as a viscoelastic surfactant in oil and gas applications and home personal care applications. The present invention also relates to a process for synthesizing an amido amine starting from a linear alcohol having from 8 to 22 carbon atoms, and to an amido amine prepared by the process.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the production of xylene derivatives from furfural and its derivatives. The invention describes new routes for converting furfural and its derivatives into xylene derivatives including novel intermediates.

Abstract: A process for the decarboxylative ketonizationof fatty acids, fatty acid derivatives or mixtures thereof in the liquid phase with metal compounds as catalyst wherein the fatty acids, fatty acid derivatives or mixtures thereof are added sequentially.

Abstract: A process for the decarboxylative ketonizationof fatty acids, fatty acid derivatives or mixtures thereof in the liquid phase with metal compounds as catalyst wherein the fatty acids, fatty acid derivatives or mixtures thereof are added sequentially.

Abstract: A process for preparing an aromatic compound or compounds where at least one mandelic group —CHOH—COOH is described, comprising a reaction for condensation of at least one aromatic compound with glyoxylic acid or derivatives thereof, wherein said condensation reaction is carried out substantially in the absence of any acid or any base added to the reaction medium. The condensation reaction is followed by an oxidation reaction in order to obtain aromatic aldehyde.