The first step gives a yield of 97% when run at 1 10 "C and 90 bar
in the presence of a Pd catalyst and 70% HNO,. A commercial
unit has been in operation since 1978. The hydrogenation can be
done, e. g., on ruthenium oxide with about 90% yield and the reformation
of methanol. Other alcohols such as n-butanol can be
used in place of methanol.
The second step is being piloted by UCC, giving this oxalate route
to ethylene glycol the greatest chance of commercial realization.