2164. ------. [MAX, N.] (Shell Development Co.). Recovery of Aldehydes. United States Patent 2,514,961, July 11, 1950. Chem. Abs., vol. 44, 1950, p. 9473.

Aldehydes containing 6-10 C atoms, obtained from the reaction of olefins with CO and H₂ in the presence of a Co-containing catalyst, are recovered in poor yield when distilled directly. If they are pretreated 80°-160° at 25-60 atm. in the absence of CO and in an atmosphere of H₂, 87-97% is recovered by steam distillation without the formation of condensation products. The steam distillate is dried with Na₂SO₄ and distilled at reduced pressure, giving an aldehyde of 96-98% purity and a recovery of 80-93%. The aldehydes are virtually free of Co.