In general the present invention relates to a continuous process for manufacturing
(N-phosphonomethyl) glycine, glyphosate, by the catalyzed oxidation of N-phosphonomethyliminodiacetic
acid. Glyphosate can be provided in high yield and in a cost efficient process
by minimizing the competing side reactions and by-products. The process includes
conducting the oxidation reaction and selecting an appropriate catalyst to maximize
the rate of the oxidation of N-phosphonomethyliminodiacetic acid while at the same
time minimizing the rate of oxidation of glyphosate in the same reaction.
