Abstract: A process is disclosed for the preparation of capped polyoxyalkylene block polyethers with exceptionally low hydroxyl numbers and correspondingly high capping efficiency. This improvement is accomplished through the use of cesium hydroxide catalysis during oxyethylation.

Abstract: Polyoxyalkylene block polyether polyols having enhanced physical properties are prepared by catalyzing the ethylene oxide addition with cesium hydroxide or mixtures of cesium hydroxide with other basic catalysts. These polyethers are especially useful in surface active applications.

Abstract: Machine dishwashing detergents are disclosed containing a low-foaming nonionic surfactant having relatively low cloud point which unexpectedly provides effective detergency, foam control and good rinsing action when utilized as the sole nonionic surfactant. Dishes and other utensils are cleaned to a sparkling clean spot-free condition by the machine dishwashing detergent compositions of the invention containing conventional phosphate builders or non-phosphate builders but excluding conventional alkyl phosphate ester defoaming agents. The machine dishwashing detergent compositions of the invention are effective especially in controlling foam on washing dishes and other utensils encrusted with soils generally encountered on dishes, specifically egg and milk-derived protein soils.