Process for producing Epsilon-Caprolactam and catalyst for the production

摘要

Improved processes for producing epsilon -caprolactam using a solid catalyst and for producing a catalyst which can be used in the production of epsilon -caprolactam are provided. In the present invention, a solid catalyst such as a zeolite is treated with an aqueous solution containing ammonia and at least one compound selected from quaternary ammonium compounds and lower alkylamines. In accordance with the present invention, a zeolite having a high catalyst activity and a long lifetime is produced, and a solid catalyst which has been used in the production of epsilon -caprolactam can be re-activated. In the present invention, by using the thus obtained zeolite and/or the thus activated solid catalyst, epsilon -caprolactam is produced in a high yield over the long period of time.