Abstract: The invention relates to a process for preparing betaines of formula (I) wherein R1 represents a C1-C24 hydrocarbon group, and R2 and R3 independently represent a C1-C3 hydrocarbon group, comprising reacting an aqueous solution of an ethoxylated quaternay ammonium compound of formula (II) wherein R1, R2, and R3 have the same meaning as described above and X− represents a suitable anion, with oxygen or an oxygen-containing gas under alkaline conditions in the presence of a supported and promoted Pt catalyst at a temperature ranging from room temperature to 70° C. Preferably, use is made of a Pt/Bi/C catalyst.

Abstract: A process is described for the production of N,N,N′,N′-tetra-(2-hydroxyethyl)-ethylene diamine in a solvent, in which ethylene diamine is reacted selectively with ethylene oxide in the absence of water in one or more saturated C3-C9 alcohols at a temperature from 120 to 220° C. and at a pressure from 2 to 60 bar in a molar ratio of 1:4, with a high yield. The conversion is preferably carried out in isopropanol, isomeric C7-C9 alcohol mixtures, C8 alcohol mixtures or C9 alcohol mixtures at a temperature from 140 to 180° C.