Abstract: Continuous single-step processes for producing higher molecular weight ketones are disclosed that involve a liquid-phase crossed condensation of an aldehyde with a ketone in the presence of a hydrogenation catalyst and a small amount of a catalyst comprising a concentrated hydroxide or alkoxide of an alkali-metal (from Group 1 or Group IA of the Periodic Table of the Elements) or alkali-earth metal (from Group 2, or Group IIA of the Periodic Table of the Elements), wherein the amount of water provided to the reaction mixture, or reaction zone, is relatively low, with respect to the total initial weight of the reaction mixture. The reaction may be carried out in the absence of solubilizing agents or phase transfer agents. The product mixture is largely free of by-products resulting from further condensation reactions of the desired ketone product or intermediates, and free of the self-condensation products of the reactant aldehyde, that are afterward difficult to remove from the reaction mixture.

Abstract: Processes for producing ?-hydroxy-ketones and ?,?-unsaturated ketones are disclosed which comprise the crossed condensation of an aldehyde with a ketone in the presence of a hydroxide or alkoxide of alkali metal or an alkaline earth metal as catalyst. The products of the process, ?-hydroxy-ketones and ?,?-unsaturated ketones, are useful for the preparation of many commercially important products in the chemical process industries including solvents, drug intermediates, flavors and fragrances, other specialty chemical intermediates.