Pyrocatechol and its alkoxy derivs prepn - by liq or vapour phase catalysed dehydrogenation of cyclohexane-1'2-dione 2-hydroxycyc

摘要

Cpds. of formula: (where R is H or lower alkyl) i.e. pyrocatechol and its alkoxy derivs. are produced by contacting cyclohexane-1:2-dione, 2-hydroxycyclo-hexanone or a 2-alkoxycyclo hexanone in the liq. phase at 150-350 degrees C, with at least one noble metal catalyst, i.e. Pt, Pd, Rh or Ru. The reaction may be effected in the vapour phase at 200-350 degrees C/0.5-5 atmos. press. in the presence of at least one catalyst selected from noble metals, Ni, Cu, Cr or their salts. A solvent is advantageously empolyed.