METHOD FOR PRODUCING DIALKYL-N-ALKOXY-METHYL-CHLOROACET-ANILIDES

Dialkyl-N-alkoxy-methyl-chloro-acetanilides are prepared from disubstituted aniline, formaldehyde solvent and additives, in presence of H2 gas. This is followed by distilling water and excess formaldehyde. The product of the reaction is an azo-methene derivative. The latter reacts with chloro-acetyl-chloride, and the product is converted in an ether with a 1-4C alkanol. The reaction is completed with application of gaseous or dissolved ammonia. NH4Cl formed is washed or filtered out. The ammonia is recovered by chemical and/or electro-chemical means from NH4Cl and recirculated in gas or dissolved form to the etherification stage. Hydrogen liberated during electrolysis is used to enhance the selectivity and completion of azo-methene formation, and chlorine is used mostly for preparation of bleach.