Proocess for the preparation of C1-C4-alkyl nitrites

C1-C4-alkyl nitrites can be prepared by reacting C1-C4-alkanols with nitrogen oxides involving oxygen, the process being carried out in a reactor designed as a scrubbing column, nitrogen oxides containing more than 50% of NO of the total amount of gram atoms N of the nitrogen oxides, oxygen and, if appropriate, inert gas being employed in the lower portion of the reactor. 5 to 60% of the total amount of the C1-C4-alkanol employed is also employed in the lower portion of the reactor in the form of vapours or of a spray, while the remaining C1-C4-alkanol is applied to the column head.