Improved processes for producing an -caprolactam using a solid catalyst
and for producing a catalyst which can be used in the production of -caprolactam
are provided. In the present invention, a solid catalyst such as a zeolite is treated
with an aqueous solution containing an ammonia and at least one compound selected
from the group consisting of quaternary ammonium compounds and lower alkylamines.
In accordance with the present invention, a zeolite having a high catalyst activity
and a long lifetime is produced, and a solid catalyst which has been used in the
production of -caprolactam can be re-activated. In the present invention,
by using the thus obtained zeolite and/or the thus activated solid catalyst, an
-caprolactam is produced in a high yield over the long period of time.