Abstract: A homogeneous process for the hydrogenation of dicarboxylic acid and/or derivative thereof with an amine in the presence of a catalyst comprising: (a) ruthenium or osmium; and (b) an organic phosphine; and wherein the hydrogenation is carried out in the presence of water.

Abstract: A homogeneous process for the hydrogenation of dicarboxylic acids and/or anhydrides in the presence of a catalyst comprising: (a) ruthenium, rhodium, iron, osmium or palladium; and (b) an organic phosphine; wherein the hydrogenation is carried out in the presence of at least about 1% by weight water and wherein the reaction is carried out at a pressure of from about 500 psig to about 2000 psig and a temperature of from about 200° C. to about 300° C. such that from about 1 mol to about 10 mol of hydrogen are used to strip 1 mole of product from the reactor.

Abstract: A process for the hydrogenolysis of a sugar feedstock in the presence of a catalyst comprising: (a) ruthenium or osmium; and (b) an organic phosphine; and wherein the hydrogenolysis is carried out in the presence of water and at a temperature of greater than 150° C.

Abstract: A homogenous process for the hydrogenation of the carboxylic acids and/or derivatives thereof in the presence of a catalyst comprising ruthenium, rhodium, iron, osmium or palladium, and an organic phosphine is described in which the hydrogenation is carried out in the presence of at least about 1% by weight water. A process for regenerating a catalyst comprising ruthenium, rhodium, iron, osmium or palladium and an organic phosphine is also described in which the regeneration is carried out in the presence of hydrogen and water.