PROCESS AND COMPOSITION FOR FROTH FLOTATION

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION This application claims priority from and incorporates herein U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/650,857 filed February 8, 2005.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to froth flotation of solid materials and, more particularly, to a process and composition for the froth flotation of coal, molybdenum, graphite, and other materials having hydrophobic materials.

DESCRIPTION OF PRIOR ART

When coal is mined, the raw product consists of coal and rock, with rock naturally occurring as small partings within the coal that cannot be avoided during the mining process. To concentrate the coal, large fragments of non-combustible mineral/matter are removed by screening or gravity separation techniques. Froth flotation is commonly used to beneficiate the finely divided raw coal. Certain coals such as Bituminous coals possess a natural hydrophobicity, which results in the coal being naturally floatable in the aqueous medium, but the use of reagents is still commonly required to enhance floatability and therefore recovery. Effective preparation of coal prior to combustion improves the homogeneity of coal supplied, produces less ash for disposal at power plants and other use sources, and reduces emissions of oxides of sulfur. Froth flotation/coal washing is an important method for

reducing ash in coal. Washing the ash and coal is particularly critical for reducing sulfur, especially in coal fields in the Eastern United States.

During coal washing, the ore is crushed and wet ground to obtain a pulp. A frothing agent, usually employed with a collecting agent, is added to the coal/water slurry to effect the flotation. The coal slurry is aerated to produce froth at the surface thereof and the collector assists the frothing agent in separating the coal from the ore by causing the mineral values, i.e., the coal, to adhere to the bubbles formed during the aeration process. The portion of the ore which is not carried over with the froth is usually identified as flotation tailings or gangue and is disposed of or reprocessed. The purpose of the collector is to increase the hydrophobicity of the coal particles to permit better attachment to the bubbles which are considered hydrophobic. The purpose of the frothing agent is to stabilize bubbles and provide for a significant concentration of fine bubbles for attachment to the coal. The difference in density between the air bubbles and water provides buoyancy that preferentially lifts the hydrophobic solid particles to the surface where they remain entrained in the froth which can be drained off or mechanically skimmed away thereby effecting separation.

Collectors used in froth flotation of coal generally comprise hydrocarbon oils of which distillate oils such as kerosene, industrial diesel fuel and fuel oil are some of the most widely used, especially kerosene. While in the past collectors included hydrocarbons produced as coke-oven byproducts, the use of these materials has been largely discontinued since they contain phenols and other toxic aromatic hydrocarbons that pose ecological problems. Accordingly today the most widely used collectors are

diesel or kerosene, i.e., middle distillate cuts. The problem with these middle distillate hydrocarbons is that they may contain significant amounts of polynuclear aromatics by up to 15% by wt., which result in increased levels of carcinogenicity and toxicity. Additionally these middle distillates, e.g., kerosene, diesel, contain significant concentrations of certain materials listed as "priority pollutants" (Clean Water Act). Diesel oil contains other HAPS listed materials such as benzene, toluene, ethybenzene, etc. in amounts ranging from about one-half to about 2% by wt. These materials are also highly toxic and pose problems with ground water contamination.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

As noted above, the present invention relates generally to the froth flotation of solid materials and not merely to that of raw coal. Thus, the present invention is directed to compositions and methods for use in the froth flotation of other materials, e.g., in mineral recovery, wherein the material has a hydrophobic component. As is well known presently at least 100 different minerals, including almost all of the world's copper, lead, zinc, nickel, silver, manganese, chromium, cobalt, tungsten and titanium, are produced using froth flotation. Additionally, froth flotation has been applied in non-mineral industries including water purification, paper de-inking, and chemical, plastics, and food processing.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a collector composition (Collector A) for use in a method for the froth flotation of solid materials, e.g., hydrocarbonaceous materials such as coal, the Collector A composition comprising hydrotreated isoparaffins and cycloparaffins containing low levels of polynuclear aromatics, i.e., less than 0.2 % by weight, generally in the ppm range.

In certain cases when the degree of hydrotreating has been less severe, there is provided a second collector, Collector Ai composition which can contain, in addition to the above components of Collector A, up to about 15% by weight low molecular weight, alkylbenzenes, but still low levels of polynuclear aromatics, i.e., in the ppm range. Collector A ₁ compositions like Collector A compositions are also generally characterized by very low levels of normal paraffins. Additionally, Collectors A and Ai exhibit very low levels of sulfur and nitrogen, typically less than 1% by wt. and usually less than 0.1%

by wt. Indeed, preferred Collector A and Ai compositions contain less than 0.01% by wt. sulfur and nitrogen, generally in the ppm range.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a collector composition (Collector B) for use in a method for the froth flotation of solid materials, e.g., hydrocarbonaceous materials such as coal, the Collector B composition comprising a mixture of linear mono- di- and trialkylbenzenes. Generally Collector B can comprise from about 5 to about 15% monoalkylbenzenes, from about 45 to 85% dialkylbenzene and up to about 30% trialkylbenzenes, all by weight. In the case of the monoalkylbenzenes, the total number of carbons in the alkyl chains will vary from about 11 to 16 carbon atoms. In the case of the dialkylbenzenes, the total number of carbon atoms in the alkyl groups will be from 22 to 38 while in the trialkylbenzenes the total number of carbons in the alkyl groups will be from 18 to 48. In still another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a novel collector composition (Collector C). Collector C comprises from 30-45% paraffins, 5-30% olefins, 10-15% cycloparaffins, 10-15% esters, and 1-6% other oxygenates, all by weight.

Thus, in one aspect, the present invention comprises subjecting a solid product, preferably containing a solid hydrocarbonaceous material, e.g., coal, to froth flotation in the presence of a suitable frothing agent and an effective amount of a collector selected from Collector A, Collector Ai, Collector B, Collector C and mixtures thereof, as described above. It is contemplated that various mixtures of Collectors A, A ₁ , B, and C can be used in the froth flotation process of the present invention. Thus, mixtures of A and B, A ₁ and

B, A and C, B and C, A ₁ and C, A, A ₁ , B and C, etc., may be employed in the process of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The composition referred to herein as Collector Ai can conveniently be derived from a kerosene or other middle distillate hydrocarbon stream by hydrotreating the kerosene to remove polynuclear aromatics, sulfur and nitrogen and then removing the linear paraffins from the hydrotreated kerosene stream by a suitable process such as the Molex® process, marketed by UOP. The Molex® process separates the linear paraffins from the isoparaffins (branched paraffins) cycloparaffins, and -15% by wt. aromatics, primarily alkylbenzenes using molecular sieve technology. This nonlinear stream is referred to as raffinate and is one composition that can comprise Collector A-i. Collector Ai will comprise a composition of from 30- 70% by wt. paraffins, 30-70% by wt. naphthenes, and approximately 15% by wt. aromatic compounds, e.g., alkylbenzenes, primarily monoalkylbenzenes. A particularly desirable Collector Ai is marketed under the name ODC-15 by SASOL North America Inc. Physical and chemical properties of ODC-15 are set forth in a publically available Technical Data Sheet of SASOL North America Inc. entitled ODC-15 Drilling Fluid Base Oil Rev. 01/03 attached as Appendix I and incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

By further hydrotreating the raffinate, the alkylbenzenes are saturated providing a second collector composition, Collector A, comprised of saturated cyclic or ring compounds (naphthenes), together with the original branched paraffins and cycloparaffins. A typical composition for Collector A comprises 30-70% by wt. paraffins, 30-70% by wt. naphthenic compounds and less than 1 %, preferably less than 0.5% aromatic compounds. A particularly desirable Collector A composition comprise 45% by wt. paraffins, 55% by wt.

naphthenes, and 0.2% by wt. aromatics, marketed under the name LPA® by SASOL North America Inc. The composition and other physical properties of the LPA® as well as other suitable solvents which can be used as Collector A are set forth in a publicly available Technical Data Sheet of SASOL North America Inc. entitled LPA® Solvents Rev. 01/03 attached as Appendix Il and incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

The composition referred to herein as Collector B is a secondary stream in the manufacture of linear alkylbenzenes (LAB). This secondary stream, referred to as alkylate, is generally produced directly as a remaining product via distillation of the alkylation feed stocks (benzene and paraffin) and the LAB. These alkylates or alkylate bottoms can further be distilled to produce products with different average molecular weights, different viscosities, etc. These alkylate bottoms, depending upon their source, can have a distribution of linear mono, di- and tri- alkylbenzenes, the monoalkylate being present in an amount of from about 5 to 15%, the dialkylate being present in an amount of from about 45 to 85% by wt. and the trialkylate being present in an amount of up to 30% by wt. Generally speaking, the monoalkylates are alkylbenzenes wherein the total number of carbons in the alkyl side chains are from 11 to 14 carbon atoms. In the case of the dialkylbenzenes, the total number of carbons in the alkyl side chains will be from 8 to 30 carbon atoms, while in the trialkylbenzenes the total number of carbon atoms in the alkyl side chains will be from 18 to 36 carbon atoms. It will be understood that these alkylate bottom streams can be distilled so as to produce linear alkyl benzene compositions of the desired distribution, e.g., predominantly di- and trialkylbenzenes with up to 15% by

weight monoalkylbenzenes. The Collector B composition will generally have an average molecular weight of from about 246 to about 667. In general, a preferred Collector B composition comprises an alkylbenzene stream made up of primarily di- and tri- alkylbenzenes with the carbon number ranges described above. Collector B, like Collector A, will contain negligible to no polynuclear aromatics, sulfur and nitrogen. A particularly preferred Collector B is marketed as V-154L Specialty Alkylate by SASOL North America Inc. V- 154L is described as to various physical and chemical properties in a publically available Technical Data Sheet published by SASOL North America Inc. and entitled V-154L Specialty Alkylate, Rev. 01/03, attached as Appendix III and incorporated herein for all purposes.

Collector C is a novel composition and comprises a portion of the overhead compounds generated during the stripping of aluminum alkoxide in the Ziegler alcohol process. One method of obtaining Collector C is to feed isoparaffins (CAS 64742-47-A) into an aluminum alkyl stream as a carrier solvent in the Ziegler process, well known to those skilled in the art. During the growth step, the alkyl chains become longer and some by-product olefin material is created. After growth, the material is sent to an oxidation step where the aluminum alkyl is converted to aluminum alkoxide. In this step, some oxygenated by-products are also formed. The solvent/olefin/oxygenate/ aluminum alkoxide stream is then sent to a stripper where the non-alkoxide components are removed as overhead. This overhead is typically denoted as SSO (Solvent Stripper Overhead). A portion of the SSO material is removed from the stripper column such that the removed material has a flash point of greater than about 140 ⁰ C. The removed material is a mixture falling within

the scope of Collector C. Thus, Collector C, by weight, can be a mixture of: from 30-45% linear and isoparaffins having from 4-34 carbon atoms; from 5- 30% olefins and comprised of alpha olefins, internal olefins and pendent olefins, the alpha olefins generally being present in the largest amount ~23%, the internal olefins generally being present in the smallest amount ~2%; from 10-15% naphthenes, primarily 5 and 6 carbon mono-cyclic and bi-cyclic compounds having alkyl chains ranging from 1-10 carbon atoms; from 10- 15% esters where the total number of carbon atoms is from 11-30; from 1.5- 4% alcohols, primarily linear primary alcohols having from 3-15 carbon atoms and from 0.5-2% ethers containing from 4-20 carbon atoms.

As noted, a mixture of the collectors described above can be employed in the process of the present invention. Mixtures of Collectors A, A-i, B and C or any variation thereof covering a wide range of compositions can be employed. For example, one suitable mixture employs 60% by wt. Collector Ai and 40% by wt. Collector B. In general the specific mixture of Collectors A, Ai, B and/or C, when such mixtures are employed, can be tailored to the individual application. Thus, it can be readily determined by those skilled in the art what the compositional makeup of such a mixed collector should be. For example, in a mixture comprised of Collector Ai and Collector B, Collector Ai can be present in an amount of from 40-90% by wt. while Collector B can be present in an amount of from about 10-60% by wt.

When used in the froth flotation process of the present invention, the collector whether it be Collector A, Collector Ai, Collector B, Collector C or a mixture thereof, will be used in an effective amount, i.e., an amount sufficient to enhance the hydrophobicity of the particles of the solid material, e.g., coal,

to be frothed. Generally speaking, the collector, be it Collector A, Ai, B, C or a mixture thereof, will be present in an amount of from about 0.01 to about 5 lbs per ton of solids to be frothed present in the slurry.

As is well known to those skilled in the art, in addition to collectors, froth flotation processes employ frothing agents or frothers. Numerous materials can be used as frothers. Thus, anionic surfactants such as alkanesulphonic acid, alkenesulphonic acids, alkylsulfuric acids, alkenylsulfuric acids can be employed. Additionally, polyglycol ethers, alcohols and other well known frothing agents can be employed. Other frothing agents are set forth, for example, in U.S. Patents 4,278,533, 4,528,107, 5,022,983, 2,094,646, and U.S. Patent Publication 2003/0146134, all of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. The amount of frother employed in the process of the present invention will vary depending upon the amount/type of solid feed material, e.g., coal, being treated. In general, the frothing agent, depending on its nature will be present in amounts ranging from at least about 0.1 Ib per ton of feed material, e.g., raw coal, up to about 2 lbs per ton of feed material where feed material includes both the frothable (hydrophobic) solids and non-frothable solids (gangue). In the process of the present invention and is as well known to those skilled in the art, froth flotation of coal and other solids is generally carried out in cells. In the process of the present invention the collector and the frother may be combined before use and supplied to the froth flotation cell as a mixture or they may be fed separately to the cell if desired.

When conducting a froth flotation process according to the present invention, and as is well known to those skilled in the art, a slurry of a particulate feed material containing the desired product to be recovered, e.g., coal, together with the gangue is introduced into a suitable froth flotation vessel which can be a mechanically agitated cell, tank, or a flotation column. Generally speaking, it is necessary to grind the feed material to increase the surface area and to break the feed material into the desired product to be recovered and the gangue. The particle size of the feed material will, of course, depend upon the nature of the feed material, and the product to be recovered. According to the present invention, a mixture of the particulate feed material, in an aqueous slurry, a frothing agent, optionally other well known froth flotation additives, and one of the collectors (including a mixture) of the present invention is formed. The collectors of the present invention enhance the hydrophobicity of the product to be recovered such that under sufficient aeration to create bubbles, such particles are released from the aqueous slurry by attaching to the air bubbles which rise to the surface forming a foam. The foam is then removed and the product is separated from the foam.

As noted, froth flotation can be performed in mechanically agitated cells or tanks, or in tall flotation columns. Generally speaking, froth flotation equipment can be divided into general groups of mechanical cells, and flotation columns. Mechanical cells use a large mixture and diffuser mechanism at the bottom of the mixing tank to introduce air and provide mixing action. Froth flotation columns on the other hand use air spargers to introduce air at the bottom of a tall column while introducing the slurry

containing the feed material above. The countercurrent motion of the slurry flowing down and the air flowing up provides mixing action. Mechanical cells generally have a higher throughput rate, but produce material that is of lower quality, while froth flotation columns generally have a low throughput rate but produce higher quality material.

To further illustrate the invention, the following non-limiting examples are presented.

Example 1 A plant trial at a coal mine was conducted over a three day period.

The equipment employed was a typical froth flotation cell operated in a continuous fashion. The slurry composition employed, i.e., the feed to the froth flotation cell, contained 8.54% by wt. solids and the balance water, approximately 50% by wt. of the solids being feed ash. The particle size of the coal was typical with 95% being between 60 and 320 mesh. The flow rate of the slurry to the cell was approximately 1 ,000 gal/m while the addition rate of the collector was approximately 2 ml/min. The collector used was 100% Collector Ai on day one, 80% Collector Ai on day two, and 60% Collector Ai on day three, the balance on days 2 and 3 being Collector B. Collector Ai was ODC-15 as described above and Collector B was V-154L as described above. It was found that the average recovery of coal over the test period was 80.53% by wt. with a gangue (tailings) recovery of 82.4% by wt.

Example 2

The procedure of Example 1 was followed except that in this case the collector employed was a commercially available diesel. Using the diesel as a collector, coal recovery was 80.49% by wt. while gangue recovery was 81.92% by wt.

Thus it can be seen by comparing the results of Examples 1 and 2 that the collectors of the present invention perform as well as or better than conventional collectors (diesel) in terms of achieving recovery of coal.

Example 3

The procedure of Example 1 was followed except that in this case the collector employed was Collector C and additionally, the slurry composition, i.e., the feed to the froth flotation cell, contained 8% by wt. solids and the balance water, approximately 45% by wt. of the solids being feed ash. The particle size of the coal was typical, 95% being between 60 and 320 mesh. The flow rate of the slurry to the cell was approximately 5,000 gal/min while the addition rate of Collector C was approximately 200 ml/min. Using Collector C, the following results were obtained:

Example 4

The procedure of Example 3 was followed with the exception that the collector was a high performance diesel substitute. The results are shown below:

Comparing the results of Example 3 with Example 4, it can be seen that while the use of Collector C resulted in a lower ash coal product and a slightly lower coal yield, when corrected for ash, the yields are statistically the same in terms of recovery of combustible matter (coal).

Once again, Examples 3 and 4 demonstrate that by using the method of the present invention one can obtain yields comparable to those obtained using prior art collector.

The foregoing description and examples illustrate selected embodiments of the present invention. In light thereof, variations and modifications will be suggested to one skilled in the art, all of which are in the spirit and purview of this invention.

Sasol North America Inc. Technical Data Sheet

ODC-15™ Drilling Fluid Base Oil

Description

Sasol ODC-15™ Drilling Fluid Base Oil is a high-purity hydrocarbon in the kerosene boiling range. It is colorless, has a mild odor, low viscosity and a typical aromatics content of 15 percent. Sasol ODC-15™ has extremely low sulfur and nitrogen content.

Applications

Sasol ODC-15™ Drilling Fluid Base Oil has been developed for use as a base oil in drilling muds, as a water- based mud additive and as a spotting fluid. In certain drilling mud formulations, the composition of Sasol ODC- 15™ has been found to increase clay yield, thus reducing the amount of organophilic clay required.

Characteristics fϋl'ϊibik Lώa wMmϊi

Distillation Range, ⁰ F ASTM D-86

IBP 374

EP 490

Flash Point, °F (Pensky-Martens) 145 ASTM D-93

Aromatics, Wt.% 15 UV

Color, Saybolt Universal +30 ASTM D-156

Specific Gravity @ 60/60 ⁰ F 0.817 ASTM D-287

API Gravity 42 ASTM D-287

Viscosity, cSt ASTM D-445

@ 70°F/21°C 2.1

@ 100°F/38°C 1.6

Aniline Point, ⁰ F 144 ASTM D-611

Kauri Butanol Value 36 ASTM D-1133

Bromine Number <0.2 modified ASTM D-1159

Nitrogen, ppm <1 pyro / chemilum

Sulfur, ppm <1 pyro / fluor

Water, ppm 30 Karl-Fischer

Safety and Handling

Except for combustibility, this product presents no extraordinary handling hazards. Normal, good operating procedures and housekeeping should ensure personnel safety. In any event, normal care should be taken to avoid contact with eyes or prolonged contact with skin by the solvent.

The data contained herein are for general informational purposes only. Please refer to the Sasol North America Inc. Material Safety Data Sheet for specific, complete information regarding this product.

Storage and Transfer

Sasol ODC-15™ is classified as a combustible liquid for transportation purposes and should be shipped in accordance with DOT regulations, Title 49, Part 172, Subparts C-shipping papers, D-marking and F-placarding as directed by Part 173.118(a). Based on OSHA hazard determination criteria this product is a combustible liquid and skin irritant. Handling should be in accordance with Department of Labor, Title 29, Section 1910.106. Storage in carbon steel tanks is suitable. Conventional lines, pumps, hoses and fittings are satisfactory for use. Normal precautions against corrosion of equipment from water leaks or condensation should be taken.

APPENDIX I

Availability

Sasol ODC-15™ is available in rail cars and tank trucks from Westlake, Louisiana.

Aquatic Toxicity Data

Acute aquatic toxicity of the water soluble factions (WSF) of Sasol ODC-15™ and diesel oil have been compared according to EPA-approved procedures, using mysid shrimp (Mysidopsis bahia) as the test organism. There was found to be no statistically significant difference in survival rate with exposure to water-soluble fractions of Sasol ODC-15™ and a control medium of simulated seawater. The test to determine the 96-hour median lethal concentration (LC ₅₀ , which is the concentration at which 50 percent survival is found) was carried out for the WSF of Sasol ODC-15™. Even with exposure to 100 percent WSF, survival rates were consistently above 50 percent, and no LC ₅₀ could be calculated. For diesel, LC ₅₀ value ranged from 140,000 to 360,000 ppm of the WSF for the same time period. Details of these tests are available upon request.

Figure 1. Average 96-Hour Survival Vs. WSF Concentration for Mysidopsis bahia

Percent Survival

0 4 6 10 25 40 60 100

WSF Concentration, %

Percent Survival at 96 Hours

WSF WSF Cone, % WφltTφXuL Cone. % tiyjinmsi

0 100 0 100

10 99 4 98

25 97 6 100

40 96 10 98

60 100 25 40

100 94 40 13

Sasol ODC-15™ is clear and nonfluorescent and, unlike diesel oil, will not cause a sheen or discoloration of surface water. Such pollution is prohibited by 1976 EPA regulations based on Section 311 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act can by Section 402 of the Clean Water Act. The nonfluorescent characteristic also benefits geological data collection because unlike diesel oil, Sasol ODC-15™ does not mask the natural fluorescence from formation hydrocarbons.

Such favorable toxicological and environmental properties make Sasol ODC-15™ a superior choice over diesel as a base oil for use in ecologically sensitive environments. For critically sensitive ecological environments such as offshore drilling rigs in the North Sea, ODC-15's™ companion product, Sasol ODC, is the more suitable base oil. The extremely low aromaticity and toxicity of Sasol ODC is appropriate for use in drilling fluids where toxicity effects must be kept at a minimum. Sasol ODC has been approved by the British Government for use in formulating oil-based muds for the UK Continental Shelf. For details, please consult the Sasol ODC technical literature.

Sasol North America Inc. and Sasol North America are registered trademarks of Sasol North America Inc. ODC is a trademark of Sasol North America Inc. Responsible Care is the registered trademark of the American Chemistry Council.

The preceding data are based on tests and experience which Sasol North America Inc. believes reliable, and are supplied for informational purposes only. Sasol North America expressly disclaims any liability whatsoever for damage or injury which results from the use of the preceding data and nothing contained therein shall constitute a guarantee, warranty, or representation (including freedom from patent liability) by Sasol North America Inc. with respect to the data, the product described, or its fitness for use for any specific purpose, even if that purpose is known to Sasol North America Inc. For detailed information regarding these products, please refer to the respective Sasol North America Inc. Material Safety Data Sheet.

Rev. 01/03

APPENDIX I

Sasol North America nc. Technical Data Sheet

LPA ^® Solvents

Description

LPA ^® Solvents are high-purity mixtures of hydrotreated isoparaffins and naphthenics with very low levels of aromatics. These solvents are clear liquids with mild odor and high solvency. The unique process used to manufacture these solvents produces low levels of normal paraffins. Consequently, LPA ^® Solvents have higher solvent strengths and lower freeze points than competitive low-aromatic solvents with equivalent boiling ranges.

Applications

LPA ^® Solvents qualify for use in a wide variety of food-related applications where only very low levels of polynuclear aromatics can be tolerated. Several LPA ^® Solvents also qualify for exemptions from both EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations governing volatile organic compound (VOC) content in consumer products. This enables formulators to continue using aliphatic hydrocarbon solvents in their products with little or no need for reformulation.

LPA ^® Solvents are excellent for use in: LPA ^β Solvents also offer exceptional performance household/industrial cleaning products as: metal rolling oils chemical process solvents paints, coatings, thinners, and stains degreasers paper and mining chemicals freeze point depressants pesticide formulations lamp oils water treatment chemicals lubricating oils waterless hand cleaners printing ink oils

LPA ^® Solvents are available in a range of flash points and solvency strengths to meet different customer needs throughout these industries.

LPA ^® Solvent

This product is a high-purity, medium flash point solvent proven effective through many years of consistent performance. It has a broad boiling range and is virtually free of sulfur and nitrogen compounds. These unique property combinations make it an excellent chemical process solvent. In addition, LPA ^® solvent performs very well as a carrier in pesticide formulations and in waterless hand cleaners. It is the feedstock from which all other LPA ^® Solvents are made.

LPA-142 Solvent

This product is an excellent performer in industrial cleaning products and as a diluent in polymer processing. It has the highest solvent strength of any 140 ⁰ F flash point aliphatic solvent, while maintaining an aromatic content of less than one percent. With a minimum flash point specification of 142°F (Tag Closed Cup), you are assured that LPA-142 Solvent will meet the hazard classification of combustible liquid under DOT regulations (HM- 181), comply with NFPA packaging guidelines (Code 30) and not be considered a hazardous waste according to EPA disposal regulations.

LPA-150 Solvent

This product provides a higher flash point for applications that require an added measure of safety while performing well in many of the same applications as LPA-142 Solvent.

LPA-170 Solvent

This is an excellent process solvent, particularly in the production of polymer emulsions and in mining solvent extraction processes. Its higher flash point and narrow boiling range also allows this solvent to perform well in metal lubricants and in specialty coatings applications.

APPENDIX π

LPA-210 Solvent

This product is a high-purity solvent with a flash point greater than 200 ⁰ F for use when added safety is required. Its low odor makes it ideal for applications where odor is critical. LPA-210 performs well as a chemical process solvent, printing ink oil, metal lubricant and pesticide carrier.

Sasol-47 Ink Oil

This is a special blend of hydro-carbon solvents designed to meet the needs of printing ink formulations. Sasol- 47 performs particularly well as an ink oil in heat set printing formulations.

Characteristics

Typical Properties Method LPA" LPA-142 LPA-150 LPA-17Q LPA-210 Sasol-47

Distillation Range, "F, ASTM D-86 IBP 370 380 395 415 460 465

10% 385 385 400 425 470 470

50% 410 390 410 430 475 480

90% 460 400 430 440 490 500

95% 475 405 435 445 500 505

EP 485 410 445 450 525 530

Flash Point, Tag Closed Cup, ⁰ F ASTM D-56 148 151 162 180 _

Pensky Martens, ⁰ F ASTM D-93 158 — — — 226 229

Freeze Point, ⁰ F ASTM D-2386 <-90 <-94 <-94 <-94 <-90 0

Pour Point, ⁰ F ASTM D-97 <-90 <-94 <-94 <-94 -72 0

Specific Gravity 60760 ⁰ F ASTM D-287 .811 .802 .808 0.813 .824 .812

Density, ibs./gal. @ 60 ⁰ F ASTM D-287 6.77 6.69 6.74 6.78 6.87 6.78

Average Molecular API 166 158 164 172 192 196 Weight

Average Composition % Paraffinic GC 45 30 45 60 65 70

% Naphthenic GC 55 70 55 40 35 30

% Aromatic UV 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.4 0.4

Color, Saybolt Universal ASTM D-156 +30 +30 +30 +30 +30 +30

Relative Evaporation ASTM D-3539 Rate (n-Butyl Acetate=1) 0.02 0.09 0.03 0.02 0.004 0.003

Vapor Pressure ASTM D-2879 Mm Hg at 2O ⁰ C 0.3 0.36 0.22 0.05 0.03 <0.1

Viscosity, cSt ASTM D-445 20°C 1.9 2.0 2.3 2.6 4.0 3.9

40 ⁰ C 1.7 1.5 1.6 1.8 2.6 2.6

Aniline Point, °F ASTM D-611 158 153 157 162 172 177

Kauri Butanol Value ASTM D-1133 32 34 32 32 29 27

Solubility parameters Calculated (MPaf ² 15.9 15.6 16.0 15.9 15.7 15.9

Bromine Number <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2

Carbonyl, as C=O ppm <10 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10

Nitrogen, ppm <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1

Sulfur, ppm <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1

Water, ppm Karl-Fischer <50 <50 <50 <50 <50 <50

FDA Regulations

LPA ^® Solvents conform to many of the requirements of Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations for direct and indirect food-associated applications, and may be used within the conditions and limitations of the FDA regulations where indicated. The most frequently requested FDA regulations to which LPA ^® Solvents conform are listed in Table I. Some significant highlights include:

APPENDIX II

Title 21 CFR Part 172 Subpart I and Part 173 Subpart D "Food Additives Permitted in Food for Human Consumption." In Subpart I ₁ LPA ^® Solvents qualify as "odorless light petroleum hydrocarbons" as described in CFR Paragraph 172.884. Under this definition, LPA ^® Solvents may be used in numerous direct food contact applications (see Table I).

Title 21 CFR Parts 174-178 "Indirect Food Additives." In Part 178, Subpart D, LPA ^® Solvents qualify as "odorless light petroleum hydrocarbons" as described in CFR Paragraph 178.3650. Under this definition, LPA ^® Solvents may be used in numerous food contact related applications (see Table I).

LPA ^® Solvents also qualify as a technical white mineral oil as defined in CFR Paragraph 178.3620(b). As such, LPA Solvents may be used in a number of food contact applications.

Product Quality

The unmatched consistency and high purity of LPA ^® Solvents are made possible by Sasol North America Inc.'s Quality Management Process (QMP), which employs classic quality assurance techniques such as Statistical Process Control (SPC). Sasol North America Inc. has a company-wide commitment to improve the quality of all our products and services. We believe even good products can get better. The Company's QMP has a primary focus— to keep our customers satisfied.

Customer Service

LPA ^® Solvents are backed by a knowledgeable, responsive sales and customer service team that specializes in solvents only. They provide prompt service and detailed technical information. The customer service staff handles solvent logistics daily, allowing you to talk to someone who is familiar with your purchasing history, understands your needs and helps you with time-sensitive deliveries. Sasol North America's commitment to top-quality service and reliable deliveries help make your job easier.

Safety and Handling

LPA ^® , LPA-142, LPA-150, and LPA-170 Solvents present no extraordinary handling hazards except as combustible liquids. LPA-210 and Sasol-47 present no extraordinary handling hazards. Normal care should be taken with all Sasol North America Inc. solvents to avoid contact with the eyes or prolonged contact with the skin. Handling should be in accordance with Department of Labor, Title 29 section 1910.106.

The data contained herein are for general informational purposes only. Please refer to Sasol North America Inc. material safety data sheets for specific, complete information regarding these products.

Storage and Transfer

LPA ^® , LPA-142, and LPA-170 Solvents are classified as combustible liquids and should be shipped in accordance with DOT regulations Title 49 Parts 171-177. Handling should be in accordance with Department of

APPENDIX II

Labor, Title 29 Section 1910.106. LPA-210 and Sasol-47 ink solvents are not classified as DOT hazardous materials.

Storage in carbon steel tanks is suitable. Conventional lines, pumps, hoses, and fittings are satisfactory for use. Normal precautions against corrosion of equipment from water leaks or condensation should be taken.

Availability

LPA ^® Solvents are available in rail cars and tank trucks from Westlake, Louisiana. Selected LPA ^® Solvents are also available from Argo, IL and Philadelphia, PA. In addition, LPA ^® Solvents are available nationwide through a distributor network.

LPA, Sasol North America Inc. and Sasol North America are registered trademarks of Sasol North America Inc.

The preceding data are based on tests and experience, which Sasol North America Inc. believes reliable, and are supplied for informational purposes only. Sasol North America expressly disclaims any liability whatsoever for damage or injury which results from the use of the preceding data and nothing contained therein shall constitute a guarantee, warranty, or representation (including freedom from patent liability) by Sasol North America Inc. with respect to the data, the product described, or its fitness for use for any specific purpose, even if that purpose is known to Sasol North America Inc. For detailed information regarding these products, please refer to the respective Sasol North America Inc. Material Safety Data Sheet.

Rev. 01/03

APPENDIX II

Sasol North America Inc. Technical Data Sheet

V-154L Specialty Alkylate

Description

Sasol North America's specialty alkylates are synthetically derived oils which are produced as co-products during the manufacture of linear alkylbenzene (LAB). Some specialty alkylates are produced directly as the remaining product after removal via distillation of alkylation feedstocks (benzene and paraffin) and LAB. This directly-produced product, called alkylate bottoms, can further be distilled to produce products with different molecular weights, different viscosities, and so forth.

V-154L specialty alkylate is the alkylate bottoms produced during manufacture of low molecular weight LABs (predominantly N-540L alkylate) at Sasol North America's Lake Charles plant.

CAS registry N°: 84961-70-6

Chara cteristics

Property Test Method Unit Typical Value

Average Molecular Weight V006.01 g/mol -325

Specific Gravity (60 ⁰ F) LAB-S65 - 0.87

Viscosity (40°C/100°C) V1.655 cSt 19-20/3-4

Flash Point LAB-S10 °C/°F >185/>365

Pour Point D-97 ⁰ C -50 to -55

Boiling Range D-2887 ⁰ C -300 to -500

Water LAB-901 ppm 50

Appearance Visual — Amber Oily Liquid

Aniline Point D-611 °c 50-55

Color LAB-916 ASTM 1-2

Main Applications

Sasol North America's specialty alkylates can be used as a secondary plasticizer in vinyl formulations, a wire rope lubricant, a heat transfer fluid, a solvent for oil-soluble, sulfonates such as sacrificial agent corrosion inhibitor products, and in a variety of other specialty lubricant applications.

Sasol North America's specialty alkylates are also suitable as a sulfonation feedstock. Potential applications for the sodium sulfonate of specialty alkylate include agricultural emulsifiers, enhanced oil recovery surfactants, agents for dust abatement, and in any other applications requiring a low-cost surfactant or alkylbenzene sulfonate.

Safety and Handling

Repeated or prolonged contact with Sasol North America's specialty alkylates may cause skin and eye irritation. Prolonged inhalation may cause dizziness and headaches. Normal attention to operating procedures and good housekeeping should ensure personal safety. Fire hazard is slight due to the high flash point; however, Sasol North America's specialty alkylates should be kept away from open flames. Foam and dry chemicals are effective fire fighting agents.

The safety and handling data contained herein are for general information purposes only. Please refer to the Sasol North America Inc. material safety data sheet for specific, complete information regarding the safety and handling of these products.

APPENDIX III

Storage and Transfer

Carbon steel, baked phenolic, and epoxy-coated tanks and equipment are satisfactory for handling Sasol North America's specialty alkylates. Some rubber-lined vessels may not be suitable.

Availability

Specialty alkylates are commercially available in tank trucks or rail cars. Shipping point is Sasol North America's Lake Charles, Louisiana, LAB plant.

For more information, call 1-800-231-8212

The preceding data are based on tests and experience which Sasol North America Inc. believes reliable, and are supplied for informational purposes only. Sasol North America expressly disclaims any liability whatsoever for damage or injury which results from the use of the preceding data and nothing contained therein shall constitute a guarantee, warranty, or representation (including freedom from patent liability) by Sasol North America Inc. with respect to the data, the product described, or its fitness for use for any specific purpose, even if that purpose is known to Sasol North America Inc. For detailed information regarding these products, please refer to the respective Sasol North America Inc. Material Safety Data Sheet.

Rev. 01/03

APPENDIX III