Aeci Limited

Anthony J Stiff

John H Norton

Peter R Rebello

Clifford M Kavonic

A process for the preparation of nitric acid esters of organic hydroxy compounds by reacting an organic hydroxy compound with nitric acid in the presence of both sulphuric acid and in a solvent, followed by separating off the spent acid, substantially neutralizing the residual acidity of the organic solution, and removing solvent to leave the organic nitrate. From 95% to 220% of the stoichiometric requirement of nitric acid for complete nitration is used. The mole ratio of water to sulphuric acid at the end of the reaction is from 0.2:1 to 2.5:1. From 200 to 2000 ml of solvent per mole of hydroxy group is present. Yields of at least 92% are obtained. The invention is particularly suitable for the preparation of alkyl nitrates, alkylene or polyalkylene glycol, monoalkyl ether mononitrates, alkylene or polyalkylene glycol dinitrates, diol nitrates, nitrates containing homocyclic or heterocyclic rings, or nitrates derived from polyols.

Process for the manufacture of nitric acid esters

The invention concerns a fuel comprising a mixture of (A) at least one alcohol with an average molecular weight of less than 160, and (B) at least one further organic compound which has a spontaneous ignition temperature of less than 450.degree. C. The further organic compound is selected from

Fuels

The invention concerns a fuel comprising a mixture of (A) at least one alcohol with an average molecular weight of less than 160, and (B) at least one further organic compound which has a spontaneous ignition temperature of less than 450.degree. C. The further organic compound is

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Edenvale, South Africa

Anthony J Stiff