Abstract: A separator apparatus for breaking emulsions, particularly an emulsion formed of the hydrocarbon liquid and an aqueous solution, wherein the emulsion is introduced to a main separating tank. The latter includes at least one inlet for introducing emulsion, and a separate discharge port for conducting hydrocarbon-free aqueous component from the tank. An overflow trough positioned near the tank proportion includes a stripping weir which passes the flow of the hydrocarbon which has floated to the surface of the heavier water component. Emulsion flow to the tank is controlled by a flow regulator comprised primarily of a water level sensing means.

Abstract: A method of synthesizing fluoromethylhexafluoroisopropyl ether, comprising mixing hexafluoroisopropyl alcohol, formaldehyde, hydrogen fluoride, and a protonating, dehydrating and fluoride ion-generating agent under conditions suitable to generate fluoromethylhexafluoroisopropyl ether, and then recovering the fluoromethylhexafluoroisopropyl ether.

Abstract: The method of removing fluorinated olefin byproduct formed during the synthesis of a fluoromethylhexafluoroisopropyl ether product or the like comprises: adding ammonia or an amine to the mixture to react with the fluorinated olefin byproduct, and thereafter distilling the fluoromethylhexafluoroisopropyl ether product to remove it from the byproduct.

Abstract: A method of synthesizing fluoromethylhexafluoroisopropyl ether comprises adding hexafluoroisopropyl alcohol to a mixture comprising a stoichiometric excess of paraformaldehyde and hydrogen fluoride, plus sufficient sulfuric acid to sequester most of the water produced by the reaction. The mixture is maintained at a temperature of at least 57.degree. C., to cause vapor formation by boiling of the fluoromethylhexafluoroisopropyl ether formed. The vapor is then collected and condensed, and may be purified by distillation.