A theory of foreign investment: Possibility,modes and timing

This paper analyzes the possibility, modes and timing of foreign investment and it is shown that all these are simultaneously determined. The determining variables are differential efficiency and variable cost of operation, together with export and technology transfer costs, as well as costs/benefits which are generally associated with differences in production environment originating from both home and/or host countries. The modes considered are: Foreign Direct Investment and Joint Venture, although the method could be generalized to take into account other modes.     

Investigation of the Effects of Disclosure Statements in Rental Car Advertisements

State attorneys general recently proposed mandatory disclosures for rental car advertising. This study investigates the effects of alternate disclosure statements on consumers' beliefs. The results suggest that a shorter disclosure statement may be as effective as the one proposed.     

Tank failure modes and their consequences

The question of tank failure is addressed for both cryogenic (LFG) and atmospheric (Crude Oil) designs. An analysis of the consequences of an assumed axisymmetric mode of failure of a liquid storage tank is presented in an effort to answer the question.     

Safety and loss prevention concerns for engineers in polymer facilities

Safety related problems encountered in the production and handling of materials using monomers in water based polymerization reactions are covered. It must be noted that the author's experience is specifically in acrylic monomers.     

Preventing fires and explosions in pilot plants

While the magnitude of potential consequences might vary, most hazards encountered in pilot plant operations are the same as those experienced in full scale commercial facilities. For example, safeguarding hazardous chemicals storage and transfer, protecting reaction vessels against catastrophic failure or runaways, all require careful consideration regardless of scale. We, however, want to address some aspects of pilot plants which can introduce hazards unique or more common to their operation. To illustrate, we present some case histories from our own pilot plant experience in BASF's Chemical Engineering Department, and include a brief discussion of some corresponding safeguards to mitigate these situations.