Abstract: A method is useful for the continuous production of ketones from a compound with at least one epoxide group in at least one fixed bed reactor. A catalyst composition is used with at least one noble metal and at least one metal oxide. To reduce the proportions of high-boilers which form in the reaction, an inert gas is introduced so that a carbon monoxide partial pressure of 50 mbar or less is set in the reactor.

Abstract: A method is useful for the continuous production of ketones from a compound with at least one epoxide group in at least one fixed bed reactor. A catalyst composition is used with at least one noble metal and at least one metal oxide. To reduce the proportions of high-boilers which form in the reaction, an inert gas is introduced so that a carbon monoxide partial pressure of 50 mbar or less is set in the reactor.

Abstract: Polymers can be prepared from monomers comprising laurolactam, by a process including a. Beckmann rearrangement of cyclododecanone oxime to give laurolactam in the presence of a Beckmann rearrangement catalyst, b. removal of impurities from the laurolactam to obtain purified laurolactam, and c. polymerization of monomers comprising purified laurolactam. For avoidance of discolouration or yellowing under ageing conditions, prior to the polymerization, polycyclic substances containing 24 carbon atoms and at least one heteroatom selected from oxygen and nitrogen and having a molar mass between 300 and 380 g/mol are limited to 500 ppm, based on laurolactam.