ABSTRACT
Rate determining steps were identified for the synthesis of methyl and ethyl dialkylamines from nitriles, hydrogen, and low molecular weight alcohols (light alcohols). Light alcohol dehydrogenation was small over promoted copper catalysts but undetectable over unpromoted nickel catalysts which were modified by either water or ammonia or both. Nevertheless, over promoted (Ca, Mg) nickel catalysts, ethyl and methyl didodecylamines were made with high selectivities and activities at low pressures and temperatures.
