24/09/12 meb. Author version attached, OK to publish

The first example of a catalyst utilising a sulfur-based ligand [MeC(CH2SBu)3] for the selective hydrogenation of dimethyl oxalate to methyl glycolate is reported.

Hydroxycarboxylic acids (ether carboxylic acids) and estersHydroxycarboxylic acids (ether carboxylic acids) and esters P 0280A Tripodal Sulfur Ligand for the Selective Ruthenium-Catalyzed Hydrogenation of Dimethyl Oxalate. -The first example of a homogeneous ester hydrogenation catalyst utilizing a sulfur ligand is described. The system provides the most active catalyst to date that is selective towards the formation of methyl glycolate (II). -(BOARDMAN, B.; HANTON*, M. J.; VAN RENSBURG, H.; TOOZE, R. P.; Chem.