Patents

The invention relates to an improved process for the selective production of N-methyl pyrrolidone (NMP) from gamma-butyrolactone and monomethyl amine preferably in aqueous form in the presence of a catalyst under comparatively milder conditions than the processes well known in the prior art of literature. The process is economically viable as it provides higher yield and selectivity for NMP which reduces the cost of separation of NMP from GBL. The catalyst shows good recyclability without significant loss in catalytic activity arid no frequent regeneration is required.