| abstract |
Process for the conversion of carbohydrates to polyhydric alcohols. Carbohydrates, such as glucose and cornstarch hydrolyzate, are converted to polyhydric alcohols by hydrogenation at high pressure in the presence of a catalyst comprising ruthenium on a crystalline aluminosilicate clay. The clay is preferably acid treated and calcined prior to impregnation with ruthenium. Clays containing a major proportion of montmorillonite are preferred. |