Hydrogenation of nitriles catalysts

The catalytic hydrogenation of nitriles is widely used for the preparation of primary amines and is commonly utilised across a range of sectors. Unwanted secondary or tertiary amines can be formed via reaction of the desired product with the intermediate imine; careful control of the reaction conditions is critical to achieve high selectivity.

When using a supported platinum group metal (PGM) catalysts for the formation of a primary amine, acidic solvent conditions or an excess of ammonia must be employed. Neutral conditions during catalytic hydrogenation of nitriles will favor the formation of secondary amines. Also, tertiary amines are usually produced only in the presence of a low molecular weight secondary amine.

Johnson Matthey offers various heterogeneous catalyst option for hydrogenation of nitriles to support your next proj.