2213. MERCER, K. K., AND CATTERALL, W. E. (Standard Oil Development Co.). Dehydrating Isophorone Fatty Acid Extract. United States Patent 2,588,268, Mar. 4, 1952. Chem. Abs., vol. 46, 1952, p. 5296.

Oxygenated compounds (including acids) found in small amounts in the H₂O layer from hydrocarbon synthesis reactions are removed from the residual acids by azeotropic distillation <100°. The stripped aqueous layer containing 2-5% of C₂-C₆ aliphatic acids is contacted with a high-boiling selective polar organic solvent, such as isophorone, in a countercurrent operation with conventional extractors at atmospheric pressures. This extract is then distilled to remove the residual H₂O leaving the polar organic solvent and acids as bottoms. Other solvents that may be used include methyl cyclohexanone, furfural, and the cresols.