Preparation of Oleamide

Oleic acid 56 grams (0.2 mole) and 36 grams (0.6 moles) urea are mixed and rapidly heated to 230 degrees. The mixture is heated for two hours and then extracted with naphtha. The naphtha extract is washed with water. 2 grams of activated carbon are added and then filtered off. More naphtha is added (eg. 75 mL. per 10 grams). The mixture is chilled (0 degrees C.) yields 40-50% oleamide. Pure oleamide can be obtained by repeated crystallizations from ethanol (30-40% yield). 

Oleic acid occurs in olive oil. See page 118. Urea occurs in urine. 

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Olefinic amides have been made by this method. The best laboratory preparation of oleamide consists in the reaction of oleyl chloride with aqueous ammonia. ... 

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