Abstract: Epoxides of the invention are those of the formula ##STR1## wherein J is H or F, the same in each occurrence; Q is a valence bond or --O--, the same in each occurrence; and Y is H or F, independently. When cured, these epoxides are superior in moisture resistance, flame retardance, and thermal stability to the corresponding non-fluorinated, prior art epoxides. The epoxides of the preceding formula may be made by first reacting an allylic halide of the formula CJ.sub.2 .dbd.CJ--CJ.sub.2 --X, wherein X is halogen, with a compound of the formula ##STR2## wherein Z is MO, hal.Mg or Ag; M is an alkali metal; and hal=Br or I; then if Y is to be F, converting the --CH group to a --CF group, and finally, oxidizing the CJ.sub.2 .dbd.CJ group to a ##STR3## group.

Abstract: Photochemical reactions are carried out by passing the fluid to be irradiated through a plurality of capillaries, each of which is surrounded by an actinic-radiation emitting plasma; the capillaries being transparent to the radiation. By banding the capillaries with a radiation-opaque material, the fluid being treated can repeatedly be subjected to brief periods of irradiation, alternating with periods of non-irradiation, during each pass through the capillaries.

Abstract: Phosphoric acid is reacted with mono- or polyfunctional epoxides containing methyol or alkoxymethyl groups, to provide resins which are curable simply by heating and contain as much as about 30 weight percent of phosphoric acid. Improved flame retardancy and water resistance are imparted to structural foams by impregnating them with these resins and curing in-situ.

Abstract: If one of a series string of battery cells fails on open circuit, the circuit through all of the cells is broken. An automatic means for by-passing the failed cell maintains the circuit and allows operation of the string to continue (at a lower no-lead voltage). The potential difference across the failed cell is utilized to heat a body of a conductive liquid so that it expands, ruptures the ampoule containing it and fills the gap between two conductors, thereby completing a shunt circuit.