2234.     MELAN, G., AND WEISS, B.  Proof and Constitution of Branched Acids From Fischer-Gatsch Fatty Acids for Soap.  I. G. Farbenindustrie A.-G., Ammonia Laboratory.  FIAT Reel R-19, Frames 7160-7173, Feb. 14, 1942; PB 73,594; TOM Reel 25, Item 15, 1942, Frames 1460-1472; Standard Oil Development Co. Transl. Ella 2697, 1947, 10 pp.

        Detailed method is described for determining the constitution of paraffin carboxylic acids, particularly those with branched chains.  By treating with Br and MeOH, a-bromomethyl ester is produced from the carboxylic acid, and from this the a-hydroxyacid is purified.  In the oxidative cleavage with lead tetra-acetate and simultaneous flowing with air, CO₂ and an aldehyde are obtained from the hydroxyacid.  The aldehyde is oxidized to a new carboxylic acid with one C atom less than in the starting material.  In case of a branching in the a-position to the COOH group, a ketone is obtained instead of an aldehyde, which is not further oxidized.  According to this method Fischer-Gatsch fatty acids for soap with C₁₀ and C₁₁ were examined and the fatty acids identified.  The results are given in detail.

MELHORN, G.  See abs. 1993.