ABSTRACT
Hexamethylenediamine became important following the discovery and growth in demand for nylon. Product from the reactor is passed into a decanter where crude hexamethylenediamine is separated from the solid catalyst which is returned to the reactor. At one time, hexamethylenediamine was produced from furfural, but this was abandoned after the discovery of the adipic acid route. Adiponitrile, ammonia and catalyst are injected into a reactor which can be of the fixed-bed or powder-suspension type. Crude hexamethylenediamine is dehydrated before being evaporated to separate it from high-boiling impurities. Contact with hexamethylenediamine can cause irritation to eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Repeated exposure can lead to anaemia and kidney and liver damage. Personnel should avoid contact with the product by wearing rubber protective clothing and goggles. Hexamethylenediamine floats and mixes with water and must not be allowed to enter drains or watercourses.
