Green Catalytic Synthesis of Ethylenediamine from Ethylene Glycol and Monoethanolamine: A Review.

Ethylenediamine (EDA) is a crucial chemical raw material and fine chemical intermediate. Compared with the industrial approach of ammonolysis of 1,2-dichloroethane, the catalytic amination of ethylene glycol (EG) is an economical and environmentally benign route that will be the future trend for EDA synthesis. Herein, we systemically review the recent progress in direct and indirect catalytic conversion of EG to EDA. Furthermore, different types of catalysts are discussed: (i) supported metal and multimetallic catalysts, (ii) solid acid catalysts, and (iii) other active catalysts (e.g., ionic liquids and metal complexes). Finally, we conclude with the frontiers and future prospects of the catalytic synthesis of EDA from EG and monoethanolamine, providing readers a snapshot of this field.