Amination of Alcohols with Ammonia in Water over Rh–In Catalyst

Abstract Amination of various C3 alcohols such as 1,2-propanediol with ammonia was catalyzed by Rh–In/C in water while Rh/C was totally inactive. Activated carbon FAC-10 was the best support in terms of activity and resistance to metal leaching. In the amination of 1,2-propanediol, Rh–In/C produced amino alcohols in 68% total selectivity and 38% conversion. XRD and TEM measurements showed that Rh–In alloy particle with size of 3–4 nm was formed on the carbon support.