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This page describes trade processes that use dangerously toxic materials such as cyanide solutions, mercury amalgams, or strong acids. These processes require training, equipment, and precautions far beyond what the text describes.
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Cognac Oil
Oil of cognac is prepared by dissolving the fusel oil of brandy marc in strong rectified spirit, and then adding a sufficient quantity of concentrated sulphuric acid to form a sulphate; alcohol and excess of acid are removed by washing the newly formed compound with water. To 100 pounds marc add 1/2 pound sulphuric acid; the oil is generally formed towards the end of the distillation, and is found floating in blackish drops on the surface of the distillate. According to a distinguished French chemist, this oil is a compound of potato oil and enanthic ether.