Abstract: A procedure for the preparation of the nitrides and carbides of several metals and the preparation of the refractory bodies from them is described. The investigation shows that reasonably strong and dense bodies can be prepared from these materials as well as from UO₂. Evidence showing the tendency toward instability at high temperatures of Be₃N₂, TaN, and ThN is presented. Evidence is also given indicating that the hexagonal structure reported by others for TaN is actually that for Ta₂N. A lattice for Th₂N₃ is proposed. The melting points of ThN, UN, and UC are determined to be 2630 ± 50°C,2650 ± 100°C, and 2590 ± 50°C respectively.

The following report investigates the isolation of the cause of the unusual tool-wear rates found in machining beryllium as attributed to an inherent characteristic of beryllium, or an effect of inclusions in beryllium, as well as the evaluation of the comparative machinability of the various types of beryllium.

The thermal decomposition of the higher oxides of praseodymium and americium have been investigated.

Resolution of the products of the reactions of DPN and ATP with ultraviolet light by techniques of partition paper chromatography is reported in this paper.

Report discussing the determination of the number of olefinic double bonds in less-than-milligram amounts of unsaturated fatty acid derivatives using Barcroft-Warburg tissue respirometer as a manometric microhydrogenation apparatus.

Construction and operation of a simplified ionization chamber.

Monthly report of the U.S. Geological Survey's trace element investigations including an outline of field work, laboratory work, and staff activities that have been completed or are in process.