Synthetic Reactions by Complex Catalysts. XIII. Carbonylation of Amines by Group IB and IIB Metal Compound Catalysts

Abstract The present investigation was undertaken in order to examine the catalytic activities of Group IB and IIB metal compounds in the carbonylation of aliphatic and aromatic amines with carbon monoxide, and in order to compare the catalyst activities with those of other metal compounds. It was found that: i) copper compounds are excellent catalysts for the carbonylation of aliphatic amines to produce the corresponding formamides; ii) the catalytic activities of copper compounds are enhanced by the addition of water; and iii) chloroauric acid catalyzes the carbonylation of aromatic amine, whereas copper compounds do not. The temperature effects on the carbonylation of morpholine were also examined.