Abstract: It is the discovery of the present invention to provide an improved method of rectifying the crude production stream obtained by the vapor phase nitration of hydrocarbons by subjecting the absorber bottom mixture to extractive distillation with water.

Abstract: An improved process for the vapor phase nitration of methane comprising delivering preheated (1000.degree.-1250.degree. F.) methane at a flow rate of not less than 20,000 SCFH into a reaction chamber of 3.334 inches in diameter maintained at about 950.degree. F., delivering nitric acid into the reaction chamber through a plurality of orifices perpendicularly mounted with respect to the methane flow, whereat the nitric acid vaporizes, mixes with the methane and reacts therewith, and exiting the reaction mixture after a reaction time of 30 to 250 milliseconds and recovering nitromethane from the reaction mixture.

Abstract: A process for substantially eliminating dissolved oxygen from a liquid and from a shipping container therefor by purging the container with inert gas, pressuruzing with the gas to about at least 10 psig and then releasing the pressure, repeating the pressurizing and releasing steps for a plurality of times, introducing the liquid while maintaining flow of inert gas until the container is filled, and closing said container securely.