Stamicarbon B.v.

Josef M Penders

Peter J Meyer

Johan W Garritsen

The invention relates to a process for the preparation of a N-alkyl-2-pyrrolidone by reducing the corresponding N-(.alpha.-hydroxyalkyl)-2-pyrrolidone in the liquid phase under an atmosphere of hydrogen gas and in the presence of a noble metal hydrogenation catalyst while in the absence of trifluoroacetic acid.

Method for the preparation of N-methyl and -N-ethyl-1-pyrrolidones

A process is described for the preparation of delta keto-acids wherein there is used as a catalyst the condensation adduct of a cyclic secondary amine with an .alpha.-.beta.-acrylic-type unsaturated compound, providing high selectivity and conversion results.

Process for the preparation of delta keto-acids and derivatives thereof

An omega-amino-beta-alkoxycarboxylic acid ester is prepared by subjecting to hydrogenation in the liquid phase an omega-cyano-beta-alkoxycarboxylic acid ester. The hydrogenation may be carried out at a temperature of 70.degree. to 150.degree.C. The amino-esters obtained can be cyclized through heating into beta-alkoxy-omega-lactams which may be applied for preparation of polyamides and copolyamides.

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Maastricht, Netherlands

Josef M Penders