856.    EWELL, R. H.  Calculation of Chemical Equilibrium at High Pressures.  Ind. Eng. Chem., vol. 32, 1940, pp. 147-153; Chem. Abs., vol. 34, 1940, p. 3158.

      Starting with the 3d law of thermodynamics, the general expression for equilibrium constants is derived and applied to the synthesis of MeOH from CO and steam.  Fugacities and activity coefficients are reviewed, and Berthelot’s equation of state and a new modification of the van der Waals equation are brought out.  The use of Raoult’s law in calculating high-pressure equilibrium in the manufacture of MeOH is indicated.