A simple, convenient, and inexpensive general process for the hydration of nitriles to amides under the influence of a manganese dioxide catalyst is described. The reaction can be conducted in a simple fixed-bed continuous reactor at moderate temperatures with reaction times of a few hours. An aqueous solution or suspension of the nitrile is employed. In most instances essentially quantitative yields of amide are obtained with complete freedom from coproducts or side reactions. The catalyst is commercially available and has a long useful life.
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