One step synthesis of dissymetrical amines R2NR′ from nitriles in the presence of copper catalysts

Abstract Copper-chromite type catalysts supported by alumina or graphite and promoted with barium were used for the one step synthesis of tertiary fatty amines (R 2 NCH 3 or RN(CH 3 ) 2 ) from nitrile, methanol and hydrogen. The surface composition of the catalysts was studied by XPS and by adsorption experiments. A correlation was found between the selectivity and the presence of a well-dispersed CuCrO 2 phase, stabilized with barium. Moreover the elements influencing the stability of the copper catalysts were also studied and we remarked the effect of the promoter or/and of the support on the variation of the copper surface area in the presence of water or ammonia. These modifications were examined in relation with the change of the catalytic properties with time-on-stream.