Process for preparing N-alkane-N-alkanolamines

摘要

N-alkane-N-alkanolamines are prepared by (a) contacting an N-alkane-N-alkanolamine having more N-alkanolamine moieties than the product compound, with a haloalkane; (b) contacting the product of step (a) with a strong base; and (c) deprotonating the product of step (b). The method of the invention produces relatively pure compounds in high yield, from low-value starting materials. The compounds produced by the invention are useful for the absorption of sulfur compounds from gases produced by the combustion of sulfur-containing hydrocarbon materials.