PROCESS TO PRODUCE VALEROLACTONE FROM LEVULINIC ACID

摘要

The invention provides a process for the preparation of valerolactone, said process comprising reacting levulinic acid with hydrogen by using a solid Ru catalyst, characterised in that the process is carried out in the presence of at least 0.08 % (w/w) water relative to the amount of levulinic acid. Said process may be faster and more selective. This process advantageously allows the production of valerolactone from renewable sources. The valerolactone may be used in the preparation of methylpentenoate, adipic acid dimethylester, adipic acid, hexamethylenediamine, and polyamide 6,6 (all claimed).