Isomerisation of N-isopropylaniline and N-n-propylaniline over zeolites

Reactions of N-isopropylaniline and N-n-propylaniline over, Ce, H and Na forms of ZSM-5 and Y type zeolites at 200-400° have been investigated. Both the secondary amines isomerised on zeolites to produce o-isopropylaniline and p-isopropylaniline through SN1 mechanism and also dealkylated to give aniline and propene. The ortho-isomer is the major C-alkylated product. Effects of temperature and flow rate on activity and selectivity have been studied.