Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for separating the water from an aqueous lactam solution. It applies more particularly to a mixture resulting from the reaction between an aminonitrile and water (this reaction also being called cyclizing hydrolysis). The subject of the invention is a process for separating the water from an aqueous lactam solution, which process is economical both from the standpoint of the investment necessary for its implementation and from the standpoint of the operating cost.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved process for distilling ammonia from a mixture, more particular from a mixture resulting from the reaction between aminonitrile and water (which reaction is also called cyclizing hydrolysis). The process for distilling the ammonia contained in an aqueous caprolactam solution, uses a column with a bottom temperature less than or equal to 160° C. and at an absolute pressure less than or equal to 5 bar, the ammonia distilled at the top of the column being compressed to a pressure greater than or equal to 10 bar and then condensed at a temperature of 25° C. to 60° C.