An alcohol conversion process

Abstract

The present invention relates to an alcohol conversion process wherein a homogenous transition metal catalyst is used. The catalyst is kept in solution throughout the whole process, including the reaction in liquid phase, passing several distillation steps and an aqueous extraction step. The catalyst neither precipitates as a solid nor is solved in the wash water due to the use of a solvent or solvent mixture having a high boiling point and a specific miscibility gap regarding the wash water.

Description

240788W001An alcohol conversion processThe present invention relates to an alcohol conversion process.A commonly used industrial production of alcohols is mainly based on an oxo process. Said process comprises the reaction of an alkene with oxo gas, which is a mixture of hydrogen and carbon monoxide in a 1 :1 molar ratio. The reaction is followed by hydrogenation of the aldehyde into the desired alcohol.An alternative process for the synthesis of alcohols is based on the Guerbet reaction, which is known for many decades (M. Guerbet, C. R. Hebd. Seances Acad. Sc / '. 1899, 128, p. 511-513). It is generally accepted that the mechanism leading to Guerbet alcohols comprises the following three steps: (I) dehydrogenation of a primary alcohol to the respective aldehyde; (II) aldol condensation of two aldehyde molecules to an a,p-unsaturated aldehyde with elimination of water; and (ill) hydrogenation of the unsaturated aldehyde to the dimer alcohol. An alkaline catalyst, e.g. sodium or potassium hydroxide or sodium or potassium alkoxides, is required for the Guerbet reaction. Often homogeneous or hetereogeneous metal catalysts are added to accelerate the dehydrogenation and hydrogenation steps. However, the Guerbet reaction generally suffers from harsh conditions, poor selectivity, separation issues and low yield.In the chemical industry, butanol is an important intermediate product and solvent for a broad variety of products, including paints and various plastics. Up to now, butanol is produced from a petro-based feedstock, leading to a significant product carbon footprint for butanol and the resulting products. Therefore, it is important for the chemical industry to find and open an economical and sustainable process route to butanol with a lower product carbon footprint.Ethanol may be a sustainable feedstock to produce chemicals. Using ethanol in the Guerbet reaction may be a profitable and sustainable approach to produce butanol. Whereas the Guerbet reaction is used up to date to produce higher alcohols from higher boiling alcohol feedstocks than ethanol, there is so far no industrial usage for the Guerbet reaction for ethanol as the feedstock to produce butanol. While the Guerbet reaction itself may seem a simple chemical reaction, employing ethanol as the feedstock causes inherent problems particularly concerning selectivity. Because the product, n-butanol, can itself also undergo dehydrogenation, higher alcohols often result as side products in the process, making the reaction so far not profitable on an industrial scale.WO 2005 / 087696 A1 relates to a process for the preparation of specific monoalkylene glycol monoethers by the reaction of an alcohol with an alkylene oxide in the presence of a heterogeneous catalyst in the liquid phase.EP 1 182 189 B1 relates to a method of continuously recovering n-butyl acrylate from one or more process streams in an acid-catalyzed esterification process for butyl acrylate.240788W001- 2 -US 2013 / 324770 A1 relates to a method for working up a mixture comprising at least one alcohol, furthermore at least one oil-soluble complex compound of at least one metal of the 8th, 9th or 10th group of the Periodic Table of the Elements, which is selected from complex compounds which have at least one ligand L1which is at least biden- tate, where at least one coordination site of L1is a nitrogen atom, and at least one organic acid in the form of one of its salts, wherein (a) the mixture is treated with water which can comprise an alkali metal hydroxide, and (b) the salt or salts of the organic acid are extracted,US 2010 / 298613 A1 discloses a process of producing an alcohol which comprises dimerizing a starting-material alcohol having four or less carbon atoms in an environment having a partial hydrogen pressure of 0,1 MPa or higher.Y.Xie et al., "Highly efficient Process for Production of Biofuel from Ethanol Catalyzed by Ruthenium Pincer Complexes”, Journal of the American Society, vol. 138, no. 29, 2016-07-18, pages 9077 to 9080, relates to a ruthenium pincer-catalyzed Guerbet-type process for the production of biofuel from ethanol.Therefore, it was an object of the present invention to provide an alcohol conversion process allowing a profitable and sustainable approach to produce alcohols such as butanol in a way such that the employed catalyst is recycled in the chemical process.The present invention thus relates to an alcohol conversion process based on the Guerbet reaction, wherein a homogenous transition metal catalyst is used. Due to economical as well as sustainability reasons, this catalyst may be recycled in the chemical process. Advantageously, in the provided alcohol conversion process, the catalyst is kept in solution throughout the whole process, including the reaction in liquid phase, passing several distillation steps and an aqueous extraction step. The catalyst neither precipitates as solid nor is solved in the wash water due to the use of a solvent or solvent mixture having a high boiling point and a specific miscibility gap regarding the wash water.The present invention in particular relates to an alcohol conversion process, comprising(i) providing a chemical component C comprising one or more of a catalyst, a precursor of the catalyst, a reduced form of the catalyst, and a reduced form of the precursor of the catalyst;(ii) preparing a liquid mixture ME comprising at least one alcohol R-CH2-CH2-OH, a base, a solvent component S, and the chemical component C provided in (i), R being selected from the group consisting of H and Ci-C4-alkyl;(iii) subjecting the liquid mixture ME prepared in (ii) to alcohol conversion conditions in a reaction space SR and obtaining in said reaction space a reaction mixture MG comprising at least one alcohol R-CH2-CH2- (CHR-CH2)X-OH, x being an integer in the range of from 1 to 4, wherein the alcohol conversion conditions comprise a temperature of the reaction mixture MG in the range of from 100 to 250 °C and a pressure in the reaction space S in the range of from 1 x 105Pa to 4 x 106Pa;240788W001- 3 -(iv) separating the at least one alcohol R-CH2-CH2-(CHR-CH2)x-OH from the reaction mixture MG obtained in (ill), obtaining the at least one alcohol R-CH2-CH2-(CHR-CH2)x-OH and a mixture Mcs comprising the catalyst and the solvent component S;(v) recycling at least a part of the catalyst and at least a part of the solvent component S comprised in the mixture Mcs obtained in (iv) to (II), wherein the recycled solvent component S comprises at least part of the solvent component S of the liquid mixture ME prepared in (II); wherein(a) the base is selected from the group consisting of alkali hydroxides, alkaline earth hydroxides, alkali carbonates, alkali hydrogen carbonates, alkaline earth carbonates, alkaline hydrogen carbonates, alkali alkoxides, alkaline earth alkoxides, alkali metal diisopropylamides, alkaline earth metal diisopropylamides, alkali metal bis(trimethylsilyl)amides, alkaline earth metal bis(trimethylsilyl)amides, alkali metal-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidinides, alkaline earth metal-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidinides, and a mixture of two or more thereof;(b) the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent which has a boiling point of at least 110 °C at atmospheric pressure, wherein said at least one solvent has a solubility in water at 25 °C of from 0 to 1 weight-%, and wherein the at least one solvent is a primary alcohol RS-OH, Rsbeing straight, branched or cyclic aliphatic alkyl consisting of C6-C20; wherein the at least one solvent is different from at least one alcohol R-CH2-CH2-OH;(c) the catalyst comprises a compound of formula (A)(A), whereinM is selected from the group consisting of Ir, Mn, Os, Pd, Pt, Rh, and Ru;L1and L2are, independently of each other, PRaRb, NRaRb, SRa, SH, and S(=O)Rd;L3is selected from the group consisting of CO, PRaRbRc, SRaRb, RaCN, RaNC, N2, PF3, pyridine, and thiophene;R1, R2, R3and R4either are hydrogen, or form together with the pyridyl unit of the catalyst of formula (A) an acridinyl unit;240788W001- 4 - n is 0 or 1 , and if R1, R2, R3and R4are hydrogen, n is 0;Ra, Rb, Rcand Rdare, independently of each other, selected from the group consisting of H, unsubstituted or substituted C1-C10 alkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, ON, NH2, and Ci-Cio-alkyl; unsubstituted or substituted Ci-Cio-cycloalkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, ON, NH2, and C1-C10 alkyl; C3-C10- heterocyclyl comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S; C5- Cio-aryl; and Cs-Cio-heteroary I comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S;Y is selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br, I, OC(=O)CF3, OSO2CF3, ON, CO, and OH;(d) the precursor of the catalyst comprising a compound of formula (A) comprises a mixture comprising a compound comprising a metal M and at least one component selected from the group consisting of CO, PRaRbRc, SRaRb, RaCN, RaNC, N2, PF3, organic carbonyl compounds, Ci-Cio-alkyl, Ci-Ci2-cycloal- kyl, C2-Ci2-alkenyl, Cs-Cis-cycloalkenyl, C5-C2o-aryl, ON, CO, OH, OC(=O)CF3, OSO2CF3, phosphanes, hydrides, pyridines, halogenides, hydroxides, and thiophenes; and a compound of formula (H)wherein M is selected from the group consisting of Ir, Mn, Os, Pd, Pt, Rh, and Ru;L1and L2are, independently of each other, PRaRb, NRaRb, SRa, SH, and S(=O)Rd;R1, R2, R3and R4either are hydrogen, or form together with the pyridyl unit of the catalyst comprising a compound of formula (A) an acridinyl unit; n is 0 or 1, and if R1, R2, R3and R4are hydrogen, n is 0;Ra, Rb, Rcand Rdare, independently of each other, selected from the group consisting of H, unsubstituted or substituted Ci-Cio-alkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, ON, NH2, and Ci-Cio-alkyl; unsubstituted or substituted Ci-Cio-cycloalkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, ON, NH2, and Ci-Cio-alkyl; C3-C10- heterocycle comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S; C5- Cio-aryl; and Cs-Cio-heteroary I comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S.The alcohol conversion process in accordance with the present invention preferably is an industrial process. In these embodiments, the process is thus based on the industrial scale dimensions, as compared to, for example, a setup and equipment for an experiment conducted in a laboratory. Preferably, the nominal capacity of a process to be carried out in accordance with the present invention, based on the desired product alcohol such as butanol in step (ill), is 1 kt (kiloton) or more, more preferably 10 kt or more, more preferably 50 kt or more.240788W001- 5 -The process in accordance with the present invention is preferably a continuous process. Alternatively, the process is preferably a semi-batch process or a batch process.Preferably, from 90 to 100 weight-%, preferably from 95 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 98 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 99 to 100 weight-% of the liquid mixture ME prepared in (II) consist of the at least one alcohol R- CH2-CH2-OH, the base, the solvent component S and the chemical component C.The at least one solvent comprised in the solvent component S preferably has a boiling point of 140 °C or more, more preferably a boiling point of 160 °C or more, more preferably a boiling point of 180 °C or more, more preferably a boiling point of 190 °C or more. Preferably, the at least one solvent comprised in the solvent component S has a solubility in water at 25 °C of from 0 to 0.7 weight-%, more preferably a solubility in water at 25 °C of from 0 to 0.5 weight-%, more preferably a solubility in water at 25 °C of from 0 to 0.1 weight-%, more preferably a solubility in water at 25 °C of from 0 to 0.05 weight-%.A distribution coefficient of the chemical component G in a system of the solvent component S and water is preferably from 0 to 0.01 , more preferably from 0 to 0.005, more preferably from 0 to 0.005, based on 1 kg of the chemical component C.The solvent component S preferably comprises a mixture of at least two solvents with a boiling point of 140 °C or more, more preferably with a boiling point of 160 °C or more, more preferably with a boiling point of 180 °C or more, more preferably with a boiling point of 190 °C or more.Preferably, the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent which is a primary alcohol RS-OH, Rsbeing straight, branched or cyclic aliphatic alkyl consisting of C6-C20, more preferably wherein Rsis a straight, branched or cyclic aliphatic alkyl consisting of C8-C20, Also preferred is that the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent which is a primary alcohol RS-OH, R being straight or branched aliphatic alkyl consisting of C6-C20, preferably wherein Rsis a straight or branched aliphatic alkyl consisting of C8-C20. It is furthermore preferred that the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent which is a primary alcohol RS-OH, Rsbeing straight aliphatic alkyl consisting of C6-C20, preferably wherein Rsis a straight aliphatic alkyl consisting of C8-C20.The solvent component S preferably comprises at least one solvent which is a primary alcohol RS-OH, Rsbeing branched aliphatic alkyl consisting of C6-C20, more preferably wherein Rsis a branched aliphatic alkyl consisting of C8-C20.Preferably, the solvent component S comprises a mixture of at least two solvents each being a primary alcohol Rs- OH, Rsbeing straight, branched or cyclic aliphatic alkyl consisting of C6-C20, preferably wherein Rsis straight aliphatic alkyl consisting of C8-C20.240788W001- 6 -The solvent component S preferably comprises at least one solvent selected from the group consisting of 1 -hexanol, 1-octanol, 1-decanol, 1-dodedacanol, 2-ethylbutan-1-ol, 2-ethylhexan-1-ol, 2-ethyloctan-1-ol, 2-ethyldecan-1-ol, 2- ethyldodecan-1-ol, 2-butylhexan-1-ol, 2-butyloctan-1-ol, 2-butyldecan-1-ol, 2-butyldodecan-1-ol, 2-hexyldecanol, 2- octyldodecanol, 2-propylheptan-1-ol, and a mixture of two or more thereof; more preferably the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent selected from the group consisting of 2-ethylbutan-1-ol, 2-ethylhexan-1-ol, 2- ethyloctan-1-ol, 2-ethyldecan-1-ol, 2-ethyldodecan-1-ol, 2-butylhexan-1-ol, 2-butyloctan-1-ol, 2-butyldecan-1-ol, 2- butyldodecan-1-ol, 2-hexadecanol, 2-octyldodecanol, 2-propylheptan-1-ol, and a mixture or two or more thereof.In another more preferred embodiment, the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent selected from the group consisting of 2-ethylbutan-1-ol, 2-ethylhexan-1-ol, 2-ethyloctan-1-ol, 2-ethyldecan-1-ol, 2-ethyldodecan-1-ol, 2- butylhexan-1-ol, 2-butyloctan-1-ol, 2-butyldecan-1-ol, 2-butyldodecan-1-ol, 2-hexyldecan-1-ol, 2-octyldodecan-1-ol, 2- propylheptan-1-ol, and a mixture of two or more thereof.In yet another more preferred embodiment, the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent which is a branched primary alcohol RS-OH with Rsbeing a branched aliphatic alkyl consisting of six to twenty carbon atoms, more preferably wherein the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent which is a primary alcohol RS-OH which is branched at the 2-position, with Rsbeing an aliphatic alkyl consisting of six to twenty carbon atoms branched at the 2-position. Even more preferred is Rsbeing a branched aliphatic alkyl consisting of eight to twenty carbon atoms, more preferably wherein Rsis an aliphatic alkyl consisting of eight to twenty carbon atoms branched at the 2- position.Moreover, preferably, the solvent component S does not include any one of benzene, toluene, xylene or mesitylene.The alcohol conversion conditions in (iii) preferably comprise an amount of the solvent component S in the reaction mixture MG in the range of from 5 to 50 weight-%, more preferably in the range of from 5 to 30 weight-%, more preferably in the range of from 5 to 10 weight-%, based on the total weight of the reaction mixture MG.In a preferred embodiment, the solvent component S recycled in (v) further comprises at least one alcohol formed in (iii). More preferred is that the solvent component S recycled in (v) further comprises at least one alcohol formed in (iii) forms part of the solvent component S in the liquid mixture ME prepared in (iii).In a preferred embodiment, the alcohol conversion conditions in (iii) comprise the presence of at least one inert gas in the reaction space SR, wherein the at least one inert gas is preferably selected from the group consisting of nitrogen, argon, and a mixture thereof.Also preferred is that the alcohol conversion conditions in (iii) comprise a pressure in the reaction space S in the range of from 1 x 105to 3.5 x 106Pa, more preferably in the range of from 1 x 105to 3.1 x 106Pa, more preferably in240788W001- 7 - the range in the range of from 1 x 105to 2 x 106Pa, more preferably in the range in the range from 1 x 105to 1 .5 x 106Pa.The alcohol conversion conditions in (ill) preferably comprise a temperature of the reaction mixture MG in the range of from 100 to 200 °C, more preferably in the range of from 120 to 180 °C, more preferably in the range of from 130 to 160 °C.The alcohol conversion conditions in (ill) further preferably comprise an amount of the base in the reaction mixture MG in the range of from 0.1 to 10 weight-%, more preferably in the range of from 0.5 to 8 weight-%, more preferably in the range of from 1 to 5 weight-%, based on the total weight of the reaction mixture MG.The alcohol conversion conditions in (ill) moreover preferably comprise an amount of the catalyst in the reaction mixture MG in the range of from 0.001 to 2 weight-%, more preferably in the range of from 0.001 to 1 weight-%, more preferably in the range of from 0.001 to 0.5 weight-%, based on the total weight of the reaction mixture MG.The reaction space in step (ill) preferably comprises a the reaction mixture MG and a gas phase, wherein the gas phase comprises H2, and wherein the alcohol conversion conditions in (ill) comprise maintaining the H2 partial pressure of the gas phase in the range of from 2 x 104to 3.1 x 106Pa, more preferably in the range of from 2 x 104to 1.1 x 106Pa, more preferably in the range of from 2 x 104to 6 x 105Pa, even more preferably in the range of from 5 x 104to 6 x 105Pa, even more preferably in the range of from 7 x 104to 6 x 105Pa. More preferably, the H2 partial pressure of the gas phase is maintained by introducing H2 into the gas phase. Alternatively, it is more preferred that the H2 partial pressure of the gas phase is maintained by relaxation of the gas phase."Maintaining” the H2 partial pressure of the gas phase in the sense of the present invention includes ensuring that the H2 partial pressure is within the desired range during the reaction. In case the H2 partial pressure is within the desired range, no active steps have to be carried out mandatorily, but the pressure may still be adjusted to a different part of the range if desired. However, in order to ensure that the H2 partial pressure is neither too high nor too low, the H2 partial pressure may preferably be adjusted, or must be adjusted in case of ensuring that the H2 partial pressure is maintained within the desired range, for example by relaxation of the gas phase, in which case the H2 partial pressure may be reduced, or, alternatively, by introducing H2 into the gas phase, in which case the H2 partial pressure may be increased. Depending upon the H2 partial pressure during the reaction, one or even both of said alternatives may be carried out if desired to adjust the H2 partial pressure and to maintain the H2 partial pressure within the desired pressure range at all times during the reaction.The pressure during the reaction can be monitored by, for example, determination of the overall pressure and comparison to the starting pressure. As hydrogen tends to build up during the reaction, the H2 partial pressure changes, e.g. increases, resulting in the pressure to increase over time. For example, by actively measuring and controlling the overall pressure during the reaction, it may be ensured that the H2 partial pressure is within the claimed range. If the240788W001- 8 - overall pressure built up is too high, this tends to be at least in part the result of the H2 partial pressure increasing. By relaxation of the gas phase, hydrogen can be removed from the gas phase and the H2 partial pressure can be maintained in the desired range. Thus, in one preferred embodiment, the H2 partial pressure of the gas phase is preferably maintained in the respective range by monitoring the overall pressure of the reaction and adjusting the overall pressure if required, preferably by relaxation of the gas phase, in which case the H2 partial pressure may be reduced, or, alternatively, by introducing H2 into the gas phase, in which case the H2 partial pressure may be increased.The chemical compound C preferably comprises a compound comprising a metal M selected from the group consisting of lrCI3x H2O, [lr(COD)CI]2, [lr(COE)2CI]2, [lr(C2H4)2CI]2, [lr(COD)OH]2, [lr(COD)MeO]2, [lrCp*CI2], [IrCp Cl2], lr4(CO)i2, [lr(PPh3)2(CO)CI], [lr(acetylacetonate)3], and [lr(acetylacetonate)(COD)], wherein Cp* is pentamethylcyclo- pentadienyl, COD is 1 ,5-cyclooctadienyl, COE is cyclooctenyl, and methylallyl is 2-methylallyl. Alternatively, preferably, the chemical compound C comprises a compound comprising a metal M selected from the group consisting of [Ru(p-cymene)0l2]2, [Ru(benzene)Cl2]y, [Ru(CO)2Cl2]y, where y is in each case in the range from 1 to 1000, [Ru(CO)3Cl2]2, [Ru(COD)(allyl)2], RuCI3x H2O, [Ru(acetylacetonate)3], [Ru(DMSO)4Cl2], [Ru(cyclopentadi- enyl)(CO)2CI], [Ru(cyclopentadienyl)(CO)2H], [Ru(cyclopentadienyl)(CO)2]2, [Ru(Cp)(CO)2CI], [Ru(Cp*)(CO)2H], [Ru(Cp*)(CO)2]2, [Ru(indenyl)(CO)2CI], [Ru(indenyl)(CO)2H], [Ru(indenyl)(CO)2]2, ruthenocene, [Ru(COD)Cl2]2, [Ru(Cp*)(COD)CI], [RU3(CO)I2], [Ru(PPh3)4(H)2], [Ru(PPh3)3(CI)2], [Ru(PPh3)3(CO)(CI)2], [Ru(PPh3)3(CO)(CI)(H)], [Ru(PPh3)3(CO)(H)2], and [Ru(cyclooctadienyl)(methylallyl)2], wherein Cp* is pentamethylcyclopentadienyl, COD is 1 ,5-cyclooctadienyl, and methylallyl is 2-methylallyl.Preferably, the chemical compound C comprises a compound of formula (B)whereinM is selected from the group consisting of Ir, Ru, and Mn;L1and L2are, independently of each other, PRaRb, NRaRb, SRa, SH, and S(=O)Rd;L3is selected from the group consisting of CO, PRaRbRc, SRaRb, RaCN, RaNC, N2, PF3, pyridine, and thiophene;Ra, Rb, Rcand Rdare, independently of each other, selected from the group consisting of H, unsubstituted or substituted Ci-Cio-alkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, CN, NH2, and C1- Cio-alkyl; unsubstituted or substituted Ci-Cio-cycloalkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, CN, NH2, and Ci-C -alkyl; C3-Cio-heterocyclyl comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S; Cs-Cio-aryl; and Cs-C -heteroaryl comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S;Y is selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br, I, OC(=O)CF3, 0S02CF3, CN, CO, and OH.240788W001- 9 -In another preferred embodiment, the chemical compound C comprises a compound of formula (C)whereinM is selected from the group consisting of Ir, Ru, and Mn;L1and L2are, independently of each other, PRaRb, NRaRb, SRa, SH, and S(=O)Rd;L3is selected from the group consisting of CO, PRaRbRc, SRaRb, RaCN, RaNC, N2, PF3, pyridine, and thiophene;Ra, Rb, Rcand Rdare, independently of each other, selected from the group consisting of H, unsubstituted or substituted Ci-Cio-alkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, ON, NH2, and C1- Cio-alkyl; unsubstituted or substituted Ci-Cio-cycloalkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, ON, NH2, and Ci-Cio-alkyl; Ca-Cio-heterocyclyl comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S; Cs-C -aryl; and Cs-Cio-heteroaryl comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S;Y is selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br, I, 0C(=0)CF3, OSO2CF3, ON, CO, and OH.Preferably, M is selected from the group consisting of Ir and Ru, wherein M is more preferably Ru.Also preferred is that M is Ru, and wherein the alcohol conversion conditions in (ill) comprise a temperature of the reaction mixture MG in the range of from 100 to 150 °C, more preferably in the range of from 120 to 150 °C, more preferably in the range of from 130 to 150 °C.In a preferred embodiment, L3is CO. It is furthermore preferred that L1and L2are each (PRaRb), and wherein Raand Rbare Ci-Cio-alkyl, preferably wherein Raand Rbare each isopropyl or tert-butyl. Alternatively, L1and L2preferably are each (PRaRb), and wherein Raand Rbare Ci-Cio-cycloalkyl, preferably wherein Raand Rbare each cyclohexyl. As a further alternative, L1and L2preferably are each (PRaRb), and wherein Raand Rbare Cs-C -aryl.In another preferred embodiment, Y is selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, and I, more preferably wherein Y is selected from the group consisting of Cl or Br, more preferably wherein Y is Cl. Alternatively, Y preferably is CO.Preferably, the chemical compound 0 comprises a compound of formula (D)240788W001- 10 -wherein Cy is cyclohexyl.It is also preferred that the reduced form of the catalyst comprises a compound of formula (D’)wherein Cy is cyclohexyl.In a further preferred embodiment, the chemical compound C comprises a compound of formula (E)wherein IPr is isopropyl.Moreover, it is preferred that the reduced form of the catalyst comprises a compound of formula (E’)wherein IPr is isopropyl.In another preferred embodiment, the chemical compound C comprises a compound of formula (F)240788W001wherein tBu is tert-butyl.In yet another preferred embodiment, the reduced form of the catalyst comprises a compound of formula (F')wherein tBu is tert-butyl.Preferably, integer x is 1 or 2, more preferably integer x is 1 .R is preferably selected from the group consisting of H, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, and tert-butyl, more preferably from the group consisting of H, methyl, ethyl, propyl, and isopropyl, more preferably selected from the group consisting of H, ethyl, and propyl, wherein more preferably R is H.It is also preferred that the liquid mixture ME prepared in (II) further comprises a compound of formula (G)wherein R1, R2, R3and R4, L1, L2, and n are identical to R1, R2, R3and R4, L1, L2, and n of the catalyst of formula (A). More preferably, in the liquid mixture ME prepared in (II) and subjected to alcohol version conditions in (ill), the molar ratio of the compound of formula (G) relative to the compound of formula (A) is in a range of from 0.01 :1 to 10:1 , preferably in the range of from 0.05:1 to 10: 1, more preferably in the range of from 0.1 :1 to 10: 1 , more preferably in the range of from 0.1 : 1 to 10:1 , more preferably in the range of from 0.3:1 to 10: 1 , more preferably in the range of from 0.5: 1 to 10:1 , more preferably in the range of from 0.7: 1 to 10:1 , more preferably in the range of from 0.8:1 to 10: 1 , more preferably in the range of from 1 :1 to 10: 1 more preferably in the range of from 1.01 :1 to 10: 1 , more preferably in the range of from 1.02: 1 to 8:1 , more preferably in the range from 1.03:1 to 7: 1 , more preferably in the range from 1.04: 1 to 6:1 , and more preferably in the range from 1.05:1 to 5: 1. It is also more preferred that the compound of for-240788W001- 12 - mula (G) is selected from the group consisting of dicyclohexy l-[[5-(dicyclohexy Iphosphanyl methy l)acridin-4-y l]me- thyl]phosphane, diisopropyl-[[5-(diisopropylphosphanylmethyl)acridin-4-yl]methyl]phosphane, dicyclohexyl-[[5-(dicy- clohexylphosphanylmethyl)pyridin-4-yl]methyl]phosphane and diisopropyl-[[5-(diisopropylphosphanylmethyl)pyridin-4- yl]methyl]phosphane, preferably wherein the compound of formula (G) is cyclohexyl-[[5-(dicyclohexylphosphanylme- thyl)acridin-4-yl]methyl]phosphane or diisopropyl-[[5-(diisopropylphosphanylmethyl)acridin-4-yl]methyl]phosphane.In another preferred embodiment, the reduced form of the precursor of the catalyst comprises a compound of formula (P-l) or (P-ll):wherein R1, R2, R3and R4either are hydrogen, or form together with the N-containing ring a tetrahydroquinoline unit, a decahydroquinoline unit, a tetrahydroacridine unit, or a tetradecahydroacridine unit; and wherein L1and L2are, independently of each other, as defined above;wherein R1, R2, R3and R4are hydrogen; and wherein L1and L2are, independently of each other, as defined above.Also preferred is that the reduced form of the precursor of the catalyst comprises a compound of formula (P-l):wherein R1, R2, R3and R4either are hydrogen, or form together with the N-containing ring a tetrahydroacridine unit, or a tetradecahydroacridine unit.In a further preferred embodiment, the reduced form of the precursor of the catalyst comprises a compound of formula (P-ll):240788W001- 13 --ll) wherein R1, R2, R3and R4are hydrogen; and wherein L1and L2are, independently of each other, as defined above.Preferably, the base is selected from the group consisting of alkali hydroxides, alkali alkoxides, and a mixture thereof. More preferred is that the alkali hydroxide is selected from the group consisting of NaOH, KOH, and a mixture thereof, more preferably wherein the alkali hydroxide is KOH. Also more preferred is that the alkali alkoxide is selected from the group consisting of sodium alkoxides, potassium alkoxides, and a mixture thereof, more preferably from the group consisting of sodium ethoxide, potassium ethoxide, and a mixture thereof.In another preferred embodiment, the base is an alkali metal amide selected from the group consisting of alkali diisopropylamides, alkali bis(trimethy Isily l)amides, and a mixture thereof.Preferably, the at least one alcohol R-CH2-CH2-OH is a bio-based alcohol, more preferably obtainable or obtained from sugar-containing crops, preferably from one or more of sugar cane and corn. The employed ethanol is also preferably a bio-based alcohol obtained by alcoholic fermentation.In another preferred embodiment, the liquid reaction mixture MG obtained in (ill) further comprises at least one unreacted alcohol R-CH2-CH2-OH, the process further comprising separating at least a part of said unreacted alcohol R- CH2-CH2-OH from the liquid reaction mixture MG. More preferably, separating at least a part of the unreacted alcohol R-CH2-CH2-OH from MG is carried out by distillation, extraction, flashing, or by employing a membrane. At least a part of the at least one unreacted alcohol R-CH2-CH2-OH separated from MG is preferably recycled to (II) or (ill).Preferably, the reaction space SR is comprised in a reactor vessel, wherein the reactor vessel is preferably a complete-mixing reactor vessel.According to a further aspect, the present invention relates to a process, preferably to the process as described above, which comprises the step of converting a chemical material obtainable by or obtained by the process as described herein to obtain a product Q.Preferably, the product Q is selected from: building block or monomer; or polymer, preferably polymer A, polymer composition, preferably polymer composition A, or polymer product, preferably polymer product A; or240788W001- 14 - cleaning polymer, cleaning surfactant, descaling compound, cleaning biocide or composition or formulation thereof; or agrochemical composition, agrochemical formulation auxiliary or agrochemically active ingredient; or active pharmaceutical ingredient or intermediate thereof, pharmaceutical excipient, animal feed additive, human food additive, dietary supplements, aroma chemical or aroma composition; or aqueous polymer dispersion, preferably polyurethane or polyurethane - poly(meth)acrylate hybrid polymer dispersion, emulsion, binder for paper and fiber coatings, UV-curable acrylic polymer for hot melts and coatings polyisocyanates, hyperbranched polyester polyol, polymeric dispersant for inorganic binder compositions, unsaturated polyester polyol or 100% curable composition; or cosmetic surfactant, emollient, wax, cosmetic polymer, UV filter, further cosmetic ingredient or composition or formulation thereof; or polymer B, polymer composition B, coating composition, other functional composition, foil, molded body, coating or coated substrate.Regarding this process from which the product Q, is obtained, it is preferred: that the content of the chemical material in the product Q is 1 weight-% or more, preferably 2 weight-% or more, more preferably 5 weight-% or more, more preferably 15 weight-% or more, more preferably 30 weight-% or more, more preferably 40 weight-% or more, more preferably 60 weight-% or more, more preferably 80 weight-% or more, more preferably 90 weight-% or more, more preferably 95 weight-% or more; and / or that the content of the chemical material in the product Q is 100 weight-% or less, preferably 95 weight-% or less, more preferably 90 weight-% or less, more preferably 50 weight-% or less, more preferably 25 weight-% or less, more preferably 10 weight-% or less; and preferably wherein the content is determined based on identity preservation and / or segregation and / or mass balance and / or book and claim chain of custody models, preferably based on mass balance, preferably the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) standard.The publication Prior Art Disclosure; Issue 684; paragraphs

[1000] to

[8005] ; ISSN: 2198-4786; published: February 12, 2024 will be regarded as Reference RF1, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Preferably, the product Q is a product as described in Reference RF1; paragraphs

[1000] to

[8005] , Preferably, the process described herein is further a process for the production of a product.The converting step to obtain the product Q preferably comprises one or more step(s) as described below and can be performed by conventional methods well known to a person skilled in the art. The converting step preferably comprises one or more step(s) selected from: recycling, preferably depolymerizing, gasifying, pyrolyzing, and / or steam cracking; and / or purifying, preferably crystallizing, (solvent) extracting, distilling, evaporating, hydrotreating, absorbing, adsorbing and / or subjecting to ion exchanger; and / or assembling, preferably foaming, synthesizing, chemical conversion, chemically transforming, polymerizing and / or compounding; and / or240788W001- 15 - forming, preferably foaming, extruding and / or molding; and / or finishing, preferably coating and / or smoothing.In addition, the one or more step(s) are described in detail in Reference RF1 ; paragraphs

[1000] to

[8005] ,The term "building block”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises compounds, which are in a gaseous or liquid state under standard conditions of 0 °C and 0.1 MPa. Building blocks are typically used in chemical industry to form secondary products, which provide a higher structural complexity and / or higher molecular weight than the building block on which the secondary product is based. The building block is preferably selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxid, ethylene oxide, ethylene glycols, syngas comprising a mixture of hydrogen and carbon monoxide, alkanes, alkenes, alkynes and aromatic compounds. The alkanes, alkenes, alkynes and aromatic compounds comprise in particular 1 to 12 carbon atoms, respectively.The term "monomer”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises molecules, which can react with each other to form polymer chains by polymerization. The monomer is preferably selected from the group consisting of (meth)acrylic acid, salts of (meth)acrylic acid; in particular sodium, potassium and zinc salts; (meth)acrolein and (meth)acrylates. (Meth)acrylates comprising 1 to 22 carbon atoms are preferred, in particular comprising 1 to 8 carbon atoms. The terms (meth)acrylic acid, (meth)acrolein or (meth)acrylate relate to acrylic acid, acrolein or acrylate and also to methacrylic acid, methacrolein or methacrylate, where applicable. Further, the monomer can be selected from hexamethylenediamine (HMD) and adipic acid.The building block can further be an intermediate compound. The term "intermediate compound”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises organic reagents, which are applied for formation of compounds with higher molecular complexity. The intermediate compound can be selected for example from the group consisting of phosgene, polyisocyanates and propylene oxide. The polyisocyanates are in particular aromatic di- and polyisocyanates, preferably toluene diisocyanate (TDI) and / or diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI).The building block and the monomer and typical converting step(s) to obtain the building block or monomer are described in more detail in paragraphs

[1000] to

[1012] of Reference RF1.The term "polymer A”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises thermoplastic, e.g., polyamide or thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoset, e.g., polyurethane, elastomer, e.g., polybutadiene, or a copolymer or a mixture thereof and is defined in more detail in paragraphs

[2001] to

[2007] of Reference RF1 . The term "polymer composition A”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises all compositions comprising a polymer as described above and one or more additive(s), e.g. reinforcement, colorant, modifier and / or flame retardant, and is defined in more detail in paragraph

[2008] of Reference RF1 . The term "polymer product A”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises any product comprising the polymer A and / or polymer composition A as described240788W001- 16 - above and is defined in more detail in paragraphs

[2009] and

[2010] of Reference RF1 . The step(s) to obtain the polymer, preferably polymer A, polymer composition, preferably polymer composition A or polymer product, preferably polymer product A is / are described in more detail in paragraph

[2011] of Reference RF1 .The term "industrial use polymer”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises rheology, polycarboxylate, alkoxylated polyalkylenamine, alkoxylated polyalkylenimine, polyether-based, dye inhibition and soil release cleaning polymers defined in more detail in paragraphs

[3035] to

[3044] of Reference RF1. The term "industrial use surfactant”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises non-ionic, anionic and amphoteric industrial use surfactants defined in more detail in paragraphs

[3008] to

[3034] of Reference RF1. The term "industrial use descaling compound”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises non-phosphate based builders (NPB) and phosphonates (CoP) described in more detail in paragraphs

[3001] to

[3005] of Reference RF1. The term "industrial use biocide”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, refers to a chemical compound that kills microorganisms or inhibits their growth or reproduction defined in more detail in paragraphs

[3006] to

[3007] of Reference RF1. The term "industrial use solvent”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises alkyl amides, alkyl lactamides, alkyl esters, lactate esters, alkyl diester, cyclic alkyl diester, cyclic carbonates, aromatic aldehydes and aromatic esters defined in more detail in paragraphs

[3045] to

[3055] of Reference RF1. The term "industrial use dispersant”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises anionic and non-ionic industrial use dispersants defined in more detail in paragraphs

[3056] to

[3058] of Reference RF1 . The term "composition and / or formulation thereof' with reference to the industrial use polymers, industrial use surfactants, descaling compounds and / or industrial use biocides refers to industrial use compositions and / or institutional use products and / or fabric and home care products and / or personal care products defined in more detail in paragraph

[3059] of Reference RF1. The converting step(s) to obtain the industrial use polymer, industrial use surfactant, descaling compound and / or industrial use biocide are defined in more detail in paragraph

[3060] of Reference RF1. The converting steps to obtain the industrial use composition or formulation of the industrial use polymer, industrial use surfactant, descaling compound and / or industrial use biocide are defined in more detail in paragraph

[3061] of Reference RF1.The term "agrochemical composition”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, typically relates to a composition comprising an agrochemically active ingredient and at least one agrochemical formulation auxiliary. Examples of agrochemical compositions, active ingredients and auxiliaries are described in more detail in Reference RF1 , paragraph

[4001] , The agrochemical composition may take the form of any customary formulation. The agrochemical compositions are prepared in a known manner, e.g. described by Mollet and Grubemann, Formulation technology, Wiley VCH, Weinheim, 2001 ; or Knowles, New developments in crop protection product formulation, Agrow Reports DS243, T&F Informa, London, 2005. The converting step(s) to obtain the agrochemically active ingredients and auxiliaries may be conducted in analogy to the production step(s) of their analogues that are based on petrochemicals or other precursors that are not gained by recycling processes. In addition, conversion to compounds mentioned in sections "Polymer” and "Cosmetic surfactant, emollient, wax, cosmetic polymer, UV filter, further cosmetic ingredient or compositions or formulations thereof' may be performed as described in these sections as well as the respective paragraphs in Reference RF1.240788W001- 17 -The term active pharmaceutical ingredients and / or intermediates thereof, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises substances that provide pharmacological activity or other direct effect in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or to affect the structure or any function of the body. Intermediates thereof are isolated products that are generated during a multi-step route of synthesis of an active pharmaceutical ingredient. The term pharmaceutical excipients, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises compounds or compound mixtures used in compositions for various pharmaceutical applications, which are not substantially pharmaceutically active on itself. Active pharmaceutical ingredients and / or intermediates thereof and pharmaceutical excipients are defined in more detail in paragraph

[5001] of Reference RF1. The converting step(s) to obtain the active pharmaceutical ingredients and / or intermediates thereof and pharmaceutical excipients may comprise one or more synthesis steps and can be performed by conventional synthesis and techniques well known to a person skilled in the art.The terms animal feed additives, human food additives, dietary supplements, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises Vitamins, Pro-Vitamins and active metabolites thereof including intermediates and precursors, especially Vitamin A, B, E, D, K and esters thereof, like acetate, propionate, palmitate esters or alcohols thereof like retinol or salts thereof and any combinations thereof; Tetraterpenes, especially isoprenoids like carotenoids and xanthophylls including their intermediates and precursors as well as mixtures and derivates thereof, especially beta carotene, Canthaxanthin, Citranaxanthin, Astaxanthin, Zeaxanthin, Lutein, Lycopene, Apo-carotenoids, and any combinations thereof; organic acids, especially formic acid, propionic acid and salts thereof, such as sodium, calcium or ammonium salts, and any combinations thereof, such as but not limited to mixtures of formic acid and sodium formiate, propionic acid and ammonium propionate, formic acid and propionic acid, formic acid and sodium formiate and propionic acid, propionic acid and sodium propionate and formic acid and sodium formiate; glycerides of carboxylic acids and short and medium chain fatty acids, conjugated linoleic acids, such as omega-6 fatty acid (C 18:2) methyl ester and 1 ,2-propandiol and beverage stabilizers, such as polyvinylpyrrolidone-polymer or polyvinylimidazole / polyvinylpyr- rolidone-copolymer. Animal feed additives, human food additives and dietary supplements are defined in more detail in paragraph

[5002] of Reference RF1. The converting step(s) to obtain the animal feed additives, human food additives, dietary supplements may comprise one or more synthesis steps and can be performed by conventional synthesis and techniques well known to a person skilled in the art.The terms aroma chemical and aroma composition as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprise a volatile organic substance with a molecular weight between 70-250 g / mol comprising a functional group with a carbon skeleton of C5-C16 carbon atoms comprising linear, branched, cyclic, for example with a ring size of C5-C18, bicyclic or tricyclic aliphatic chains and but not necessarily one or more unsaturated structural elements like double bonds, triple bonds, aromatics or heteroaromatics and preferably the one or more additional functional groups are selected from alcohol, ether, ester, ketone, aldehyde, acetal, carboxylic acid, nitrile, thiol, amine. In one aspect, the aroma chemical is a terpene-based aroma chemical, for example selected from monoterpenes and monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenes and sesquiterpenoids, diterpenes, triterpenes or tetraterpenes. Aroma chemicals can be combined with further aroma240788W001- 18 - chemicals to give an aroma composition. Aroma chemicals and aroma compositions are defined in more detail in paragraph

[5003] of Reference RF1 . The converting step(s) to obtain the aroma chemical and aroma composition may comprise one or more synthesis steps and can be performed by conventional synthesis and techniques well known to a person skilled in the art.The term "aqueous polymer dispersion”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises aqueous compositions) comprising dispersed polymer(s) and is defined in more detail in the section

[6001] entitled "aqueous polymer dispersion” of Reference RF1 . The dispersed polymer(s) may be selected from acrylic emulsion polymer(s), styrene acrylic emulsion polymer(s), styrene butadiene dispersion(s), aqueous dispersion(s) comprising composite particles, acrylate alkyd hybrid dispersion(s), polyurethane(s) (including UV-curable polyurethanes) and polyurethane - poly(meth)acrylate hybrid polymer(s). The term "emulsion polymer”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises polymer(s) made by free-radical emulsion polymerization. Aqueous polyurethane dispersion(s) are defined in more detail in the section

[6002] entitled "Polyurethane dispersions” of Reference RF1. UV-curable polyure- thane(s) is / are defined in more detail in the section

[6017] of Reference RF1. Polyurethane - poly(meth)acrylate hybrid polymer(s) is / are defined in more detail in the section

[6016] of Reference RF1.The term "polymeric dispersant”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises preferably polymer(s) comprising polyether side chain, in particular polycarboxylate ether polymer(s) and polycondensation product(s) defined in more detail in paragraph

[6020] entitled "Polymeric dispersant” of Reference RF1.The converting (polymerization) step(s) to obtain the aqueous polymer dispersion(s) comprising emulsion polymer(s) is / are defined in more detail in the section

[6003] entitled "Emulsion polymerization” of Reference RF1.The converting (polymerization) step(s) to obtain the aqueous polyurethane dispersion(s) is / are defined in more detail in the section

[6014] entitled "Process for the preparation of aqueous polyurethane dispersions” and section [6017)] entitled "Aqueous UV-curable polyurethane dispersions, their preparation and use and compositions containing them” of Reference RF1 .Composition(s) and uses of aqueous polymer dispersion(s) and of polymeric dispersant(s) are defined in more detail in the following sections of Reference RF1 : section

[6004] entitled "Uses of aqueous polymer dispersions”, section

[6005] entitled "Binders for architectural and construction coatings” section

[6006] entitled "Binders for paper coating” section

[6007] entitled "Binders for fiber bonding” section

[6008] entitled "Adhesive polymers and adhesive compositions” section

[6015] entitled "Aqueous polyurethane dispersions suitable for use in coating compositions” section

[6016] entitled "Aqueous polyurethane - poly(meth)acrylate hybride polymer dispersions suitable for use in coating compositions” section

[6017] entitled "Aqueous UV-curable polyurethane dispersions, their preparation and use and compositions containing them”240788W001- 19 - section

[6018] entitled "Inorganic binder compositions comprising polymeric dispersants and their use”

[6019] 100% curable coating compositionsUV-crosslinkable poly(meth)acrylate(s) and its / their uses are defined in more detail in section

[6009] entitled "UV- crosslinkable poly(meth)acrylates for use in UV-curable solvent-free hotmelt adhesives and their use for making pressure-sensitive self-adhesive articles” of Reference RF1.Polyisocyanate(s), composition(s) comprising them and their uses are defined in more detail in section

[6010] entitled "Polyisocyanates” of Reference RF1.Hyperbranched polyester polyol(s) and its / their uses are defined in more detail in section

[6011] entitled "Organic solvent based hyperbranched polyester polyols suitable for use in coating compositions” of Reference RF1 . The converting step(s) to obtain the hyperbranched polyester polyols is / are defined in more detail in the section

[6012] entitled "Preparation of organic solvent based hyperbranched polyester polyols” of Reference RF1 . Coating compositions) comprising hyperbranched polyester polyol(s), polyisocyanate(s) and additive(s) and substrate(s) coated therewith are defined in more detail in section

[6013] entitled "Organic solvent based two component coating compositions comprising hyperbranched polyester polyols and polyisocyanates” of Reference RF1.Unsaturated polyester polyol(s), solvent-based coating composition(s) comprising said unsaturated polyester pol- yol(s) and substrate(s) for coating with said coating composition(s) are defined in more detail in section

[6018] entitled "Organic solvent based coating composition comprising unsaturated polyester polyols” of Reference RF1. 100% curable coating composition(s) is / are defined in more detail in section

[6019] of Reference RF1.Polymeric dispersant(s) for inorganic binder compositions is / are defined in more detail in section

[6020] of Reference RF1. The inorganic binder composition(s) comprising the polymeric dispersants and their use are defined in more detail in section

[6021] of Reference RF1. The converting step(s) to obtain the polymeric dispersant(s) are defined in more detail in section

[6020] of Reference RF1. The term "inorganic binder composition” comprising the polymeric dispersant(s), as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises preferably in particular hydraulically setting compositions and compositions comprising calcium sulfate and is defined in more detail in section

[6021] of Reference RF1 entitled "Inorganic binder compositions comprising the polymeric dispersant and their use”. Specific building material formulation(s) comprising polymeric dispersant(s) or building product(s) produced by a building material formulation comprising a polymeric dispersant are disclosed in more detail in section

[6021] of Reference RF1.The term "cosmetic surfactant”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises non-ionic, anionic, cationic and amphoteric surfactants and is defined in more detail in paragraph

[7002] of Reference RF1. The term "emollient”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, refers to a chemical compound used for protecting, moisturizing, and / or lubricating the skin and is defined in more detail in paragraph

[7003] of Reference RF1. The term "wax”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises pearlizers and opacifiers and is defined in more detail in para-240788W001- 20 - graph

[7004] of Reference RF1 . The term "cosmetic polymer”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises any polymer that can be used as an ingredient in a cosmetic formulation and is defined in more detail in paragraph

[7005] of Reference RF1 . The term "UV filter”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, refers to a chemical compound that blocks or absorbs ultraviolet light and is defined in more detail in paragraph

[7006] of Reference RF1. The term "further cosmetic ingredient”, as used in the context of the product Q herein, comprises any ingredient suitable for making a cosmetic formulation. Several sources disclose cosmetically acceptable ingredients. E. g. the database Cosing on the internet pages of the European Commission discloses cosmetic ingredients and the International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook, edited by the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), discloses cosmetic ingredients. The term "composition and / or formulation thereof' with reference to the cosmetic surfactant, emollient, wax, cosmetic polymer, UV filter and / or further cosmetic ingredient refers to personal care and / or cosmetic compositions or formulations defined in more detail in paragraph

[7007] of Reference RF1 . The converting step(s) to obtain the cosmetic surfactant, emollient, wax, cosmetic polymer, UV filter or further cosmetic ingredient is / are defined in more detail in paragraph

[7008] of Reference RF1.The terms "polymer B”, "polymer composition B”, "coating composition”, "other functional composition”, "foil”, "molded body”, "coating” and "coated substrate” are well known to the person skilled in the art and are defined in more detail from paragraph

[8000] to

[8005] of Reference RF1.The present invention is further illustrated by the following set of embodiments and combinations of embodiments resulting from the dependencies and back-references as indicated. In particular, it is noted that in each instance where a range of embodiments is mentioned, for example in the context of a term such as "The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 4", every embodiment in this range is meant to be explicitly disclosed for the skilled person, i.e. the wording of this term is to be understood by the skilled person as being synonymous to "The process of any one of embodiments 1, 2, 3 and 4". Further, it is explicitly noted that the following set of embodiments represents a suitably structured part of the general description directed to preferred aspects of the present invention, and, thus, suitably supports, but does not represent the claims of the present invention.1 . An alcohol conversion process, comprising(I) providing a chemical component C comprising one or more of a catalyst, a precursor of the catalyst, a reduced form of the catalyst, and a reduced form of the precursor of the catalyst;(ii) preparing a liquid mixture ME comprising at least one alcohol R-CH2-CH2-OH, a base, a solvent component S, and the chemical component C provided in (I), R being selected from the group consisting of H and Ci-C4-alkyl;(ill) subjecting the liquid mixture ME prepared in (ii) to alcohol conversion conditions in a reaction space SR and obtaining in said reaction space a reaction mixture MG comprising at least one alcohol R-CH2-CH2- (CHR-CH2)X-OH, x being an integer in the range of from 1 to 4, wherein the alcohol conversion conditions comprise a temperature of the reaction mixture MG in the range of from 100 to 250 °C and a pressure in the reaction space S in the range of from 1 x 105Pa to 4 x 106Pa;240788W001- 21 -(iv) separating the at least one alcohol R-CH2-CH2-(CHR-CH2)x-OH from the reaction mixture MG obtained in (ill), obtaining the at least one alcohol R-CH2-CH2-(CHR-CH2)x-OH and a mixture Mcs comprising the catalyst and the solvent component S;(v) recycling at least a part of the catalyst and at least a part of the solvent component S comprised in the mixture Mcs obtained in (iv) to (II), wherein the recycled solvent component S comprises at least part of the solvent component S of the liquid mixture ME prepared in (II); wherein(a) the base is selected from the group consisting of alkali hydroxides, alkaline earth hydroxides, alkali carbonates, alkali hydrogen carbonates, alkaline earth carbonates, alkaline hydrogen carbonates, alkali alkoxides, alkaline earth alkoxides, alkali metal diisopropylamides, alkaline earth metal diisopropylamides, alkali metal bis(trimethylsilyl)amides, alkaline earth metal bis(trimethylsilyl)amides, alkali metal-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidinides, alkaline earth metal-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidinides, and a mixture of two or more thereof;(b) the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent which has a boiling point of at least 110 °C at atmospheric pressure, wherein said at least one solvent has a solubility in water at 25 °C of from 0 to 1 weight-%, and wherein the at least one solvent is a primary alcohol RS-OH, Rsbeing straight, branched or cyclic aliphatic alkyl consisting of C6-C20; wherein the at least one solvent is different from at least one alcohol R-CH2-CH2-OH;(c) the catalyst comprises a compound of formula (A)(A), whereinM is selected from the group consisting of Ir, Mn, Os, Pd, Pt, Rh, and Ru;L1and L2are, independently of each other, PRaRb, NRaRb, SRa, SH, and S(=O)Rd;L3is selected from the group consisting of CO, PRaRbRc, SRaRb, RaCN, RaNC, N2, PF3, pyridine, and thiophene;R1, R2, R3and R4either are hydrogen, or form together with the pyridyl unit of the catalyst of formula (A) an acridinyl unit;240788W001- 22 - n is 0 or 1 , and if R1, R2, R3and R4are hydrogen, n is 0;Ra, Rb, Rcand Rdare, independently of each other, selected from the group consisting of H, unsubstituted or substituted C1-C10 alkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, ON, NH2, and Ci-Cio-alkyl; unsubstituted or substituted Ci-Cio-cycloalkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, ON, NH2, and C1-C10 alkyl; C3-C10- heterocyclyl comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S; C5- Cio-aryl; and Cs-Cio-heteroary I comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S;Y is selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br, I, OC(=O)CF3, OSO2CF3, ON, CO, and OH;(d) the precursor of the catalyst comprising a compound of formula (A) comprises a mixture comprising a compound comprising a metal M and at least one component selected from the group consisting of CO, PRaRbRc, SRaRb, RaCN, RaNC, N2, PF3, organic carbonyl compounds, Ci-Cio-alkyl, Ci-Ci2-cycloal- kyl, C2-Ci2-alkenyl, Cs-Cis-cycloalkenyl, C5-C2o-aryl, ON, CO, OH, OC(=O)CF3, OSO2CF3, phosphanes, hydrides, pyridines, halogenides, hydroxides, and thiophenes; and a compound of formula (H)wherein M is selected from the group consisting of Ir, Mn, Os, Pd, Pt, Rh, and Ru;L1and L2are, independently of each other, PRaRb, NRaRb, SRa, SH, and S(=O)Rd;R1, R2, R3and R4either are hydrogen, or form together with the pyridyl unit of the catalyst comprising a compound of formula (A) an acridinyl unit; n is 0 or 1, and if R1, R2, R3and R4are hydrogen, n is 0;Ra, Rb, Rcand Rdare, independently of each other, selected from the group consisting of H, unsubstituted or substituted Ci-Cio-alkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, ON, NH2, and Ci-Cio-alkyl; unsubstituted or substituted Ci-Cio-cycloalkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, ON, NH2, and Ci-Cio-alkyl; C3-C10- heterocycle comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S; C5- Cio-aryl; and Cs-Cio-heteroary I comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S.2. The process of embodiment 1 , wherein the process is a continuous process.3. The process of embodiment 1 , wherein the process is a semi-batch process or a batch process.240788W001- 23 -4. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein from 90 to 100 weight-%, preferably from 95 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 98 to 100 weight-%, more preferably from 99 to 100 weight-% of the liquid mixture ME prepared in (ii) consist of the at least one alcohol R-CH2-CH2-OH, the base, the solvent component S and the chemical component C.5. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the at least one solvent comprised in the solvent component S has a boiling point of 140 °C or more, preferably a boiling point of 160 °C or more, more preferably a boiling point of 180 °C or more, more preferably a boiling point of 190 °C or more.6. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the at least one solvent comprised in the solvent component S has a solubility in water at 25 °C of from 0 to 0.7 weight-%, preferably a solubility in water at 25 °C of from 0 to 0.5 weight-%, more preferably a solubility in water at 25 °C of from 0 to 0.1 weight-%, more preferably a solubility in water at 25 °C of from 0 to 0.05 weight-%.7. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein a distribution coefficient of the chemical component C in a system of the solvent component S and water is from 0 to 0.01 , preferably from 0 to 0.005, more preferably from 0 to 0.005, based on 1 kg of the chemical component C.8. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the solvent component S comprises a mixture of at least two solvents with a boiling point of 140 °C or more, preferably with a boiling point of 160 °C or more, more preferably with a boiling point of 180 °C or more, more preferably with a boiling point of 190 °C or more.9. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent which is a primary alcohol RS-OH, Rsbeing straight, branched or cyclic aliphatic alkyl consisting of Ce- C20, preferably wherein Rsis a straight, branched or cyclic aliphatic alkyl consisting of Cs-Cu, more preferably wherein Rsis a straight, branched or cyclic aliphatic alkyl consisting of C8-C12.10. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 9, wherein the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent which is a primary alcohol RS-OH, R being straight or branched aliphatic alkyl consisting of C6-C20, preferably wherein Rsis a straight or branched aliphatic alkyl consisting of C8-C20.11 . The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent which is a primary alcohol RS-OH, Rsbeing straight aliphatic alkyl consisting of C6-C20, preferably wherein Rsis a straight aliphatic alkyl consisting of C8-C20.12. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent which is a primary alcohol RS-OH, Rsbeing branched aliphatic alkyl consisting of C6-C20, preferably wherein Rsis a branched aliphatic alkyl consisting of C8-C20.240788W001- 24 -13. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the solvent component S comprises a mixture of at least two solvents each being a primary alcohol RS-OH, Rsbeing straight, branched or cyclic aliphatic alkyl consisting of C6-C20, preferably wherein Rsis straight aliphatic alkyl consisting of C8-C20.14. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent selected from the group consisting of 1-hexanol, 1-octanol, 1-decanol, 1-dodedacanol, 2-ethylbutan-1- ol, 2-ethylhexan-1-ol, 2-ethyloctan-1-ol, 2-ethyldecan-1-ol, 2-ethyldodecan-1-ol, 2-butylhexan-1-ol, 2-bu- tyloctan-1-ol, 2-butyldecan-1-ol, 2-butyldodecan-1-ol, 2-hexyldecanol, 2-octyldodecanol, 2-propylheptan-1-ol, and a mixture of two or more thereof; preferably wherein the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent selected from the group consisting of 2-ethylbutan-1-ol, 2-ethylhexan-1-ol, 2-ethyloctan-1-ol, 2-ethyl- decan-1-ol, 2-ethyldodecan-1-ol, 2-butylhexan-1-ol, 2-butyloctan-1-ol, 2-butyldecan-1-ol, 2-butyldodecan-1-ol, 2-hexadecanol, 2-octyldodecanol, 2-propylheptan-1-ol, and a mixture or two or more thereof.15. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 14, wherein the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent selected from the group consisting of 2-ethylbutan-1-ol, 2-ethylhexan-1-ol, 2-ethyloctan-1-ol, 2-ethyl- decan-1-ol, 2-ethyldodecan-1-ol, 2-butylhexan-1-ol, 2-butyloctan-1-ol, 2-butyldecan-1-ol, 2-butyldodecan-1-ol, 2-hexyldecan-1-ol, 2-octyldodecan-1-ol, 2-propylheptan-1-ol, and a mixture of two or more thereof.16. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 14, wherein the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent which is a branched primary alcohol RS-OH with Rsbeing a branched aliphatic alkyl consisting of six to twenty carbon atoms, preferably wherein Rsis a branched aliphatic alkyl consisting of eight to twenty carbon atoms.17. The process of embodiment 16, wherein the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent which is a primary alcohol RS-OH which is branched at the 2-position, with Rsbeing an aliphatic alkyl consisting of six to twenty carbon atoms branched at the 2-position, more preferably wherein Rsis an aliphatic alkyl consisting of eight to twenty carbon atoms branched at the 2-position.18. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 17, wherein the solvent component S does not include any one of benzene, toluene, xylene or mesitylene.19. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 18, wherein the alcohol conversion conditions in (ill) comprise an amount of the solvent component S in the reaction mixture MG in the range of from 5 to 50 weight-%.20. The process of embodiment 19, wherein the alcohol conversion conditions in (ill) comprise an amount of the solvent component S in the reaction mixture MG in the range of from 5 to 30 weight-%, more preferably in the range of from 5 to 10 weight-%, based on the total weight of the reaction mixture MG.240788W001- 25 -21 . The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 20, wherein the solvent component S recycled in (v) further comprises at least one alcohol formed in (iii).22. The process of embodiment 21 , wherein the solvent component S recycled in (v) further comprising at least one alcohol formed in (iii) forms part of the solvent component S in the liquid mixture ME prepared in (iii).23. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 22, wherein the alcohol conversion conditions in (iii) comprise the presence of at least one inert gas in the reaction space SR, wherein the at least one inert gas is preferably selected from the group consisting of nitrogen, argon, and a mixture thereof.24. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 23, wherein the alcohol conversion conditions in (iii) comprise a pressure in the reaction space S in the range of from 1 x 105to 3.5 x 106Pa, preferably in the range of from 1 x 105to 3.1 x 106Pa, more preferably in the range in the range of from 1 x 105to 2 x 106Pa, more preferably in the range in the range from 1 x 105to 1 .5 x 106Pa.25. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 24, wherein the alcohol conversion conditions in (iii) comprise a temperature of the reaction mixture MG in the range of from 100 to 200 °C, preferably in the range of from 120 to 180 °C, more preferably in the range of from 130 to 160 °C.26. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 25, wherein the alcohol conversion conditions in (iii) comprise an amount of the base in the reaction mixture MG in the range of from 0.1 to 10 weight-%, preferably in the range of from 0.5 to 8 weight-%, more preferably in the range of from 1 to 5 weight-%, based on the total weight of the reaction mixture MG.27. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 26, wherein the alcohol conversion conditions in (iii) comprise an amount of the catalyst in the reaction mixture MG in the range of from 0.001 to 2 weight-%, preferably in the range of from 0.001 to 1 weight-%, more preferably in the range of from 0.001 to 0.5 weight-%, based on the total weight of the reaction mixture MG.28. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 27, wherein the reaction space in step (iii) comprises a the reaction mixture MG and a gas phase, wherein the gas phase comprises H2, and wherein the alcohol conversion conditions in (iii) comprise maintaining the H2 partial pressure of the gas phase in the range of from 2 x 104to 3.1 x 106Pa, preferably in the range of from 2 x 104to 1.1 x 106Pa, more preferably in the range of from 2 x104to 6 x 105Pa, even more preferably in the range of from 5 x 104to 6 x 105Pa, even more preferably in the range of from 7 x 104to 6 x 105Pa.240788W001- 26 -29. The process of embodiment 28, wherein the H2 partial pressure of the gas phase is maintained by introducing H2 into the gas phase.30. The process of embodiment 28, wherein the H2 partial pressure of the gas phase is maintained by relaxation of the gas phase.31 . The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 30, wherein the chemical compound C comprises a compound comprising a metal M selected from the group consisting of IrCh x H2O, [lr(COD)CI]2, [lr(COE)2CI]2, [lr(C2H4)2CI]2, [lr(COD)OH]2, [lr(COD)MeO]2, [lrCp*CI2], [IrCp Cl2], lr4(CO)i2, [lr(PPh3)2(CO)CI], [lr(acety- lacetonateH and [lr(acetylacetonate)(COD)], wherein Cp* is pentamethylcyclopentadienyl, COD is 1 ,5-cy- clooctadienyl, COE is cyclooctenyl, and methylallyl is 2-methylallyl.32. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 30, wherein the chemical compound C comprises a compound comprising a metal M selected from the group consisting of Ru(p-cymene)Cl2]2, [Ru(benzene)Cl2]y, [Ru(CO)2Cl2]y, where y is in each case in the range from 1 to 1000, [Ru(CO)3Cl2]2, [Ru(COD)(allyl)2], RuCh x H2O, [Ru(acetylacetonate)3], [Ru(DMSO)4Cl2], [Ru(cyclopentadienyl)(CO)2CI], [Ru(cyclopentadienyl)(CO)2H], [Ru(cyclopentadienyl)(CO)2]2, [Ru(Cp)(CO)2CI], [Ru(Cp*)(CO)2H], [Ru(Cp*)(CO)2]2, [Ru(indenyl)(CO)2CI], [Ru(indenyl)(CO)2H], [Ru(indenyl)(CO)2]2, ruthenocene, [Ru(COD)CI2]2, [Ru(Cp*)(COD)CI], [RU3(CO)I2], [Ru(PPh3)4(H)2], [Ru(PPh3)3(CI)2], [Ru(PPh3)3(CO)(CI)2], [Ru(RRh3)3(CO)(CI)(H)], [Ru(PPh3)3(CO)(H)2], and [Ru(cyclooctadienyl)(methylallyl)2], wherein Cp* is pentamethylcyclopentadienyl, COD is 1 ,5-cyclooctadienyl, and methylallyl is 2-methylallyl.33. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 30, wherein the chemical compound C comprises a compound of formula (B)whereinM is selected from the group consisting of Ir, Ru, and Mn;L1and L2are, independently of each other, PRaRb, NRaRb, SRa, SH, and S(=O)Rd;L3is selected from the group consisting of CO, PRaRbRc, SRaRb, RaCN, RaNC, N2, PF3, pyridine, and thiophene;Ra, Rb, Rcand Rdare, independently of each other, selected from the group consisting of H, unsubstituted or substituted Ci-Cio-alkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, CN, NH2, and Ci-Cio-alkyl; unsubstituted or substituted Ci-Cio-cycloalkyl wherein the substituents are selected240788W001- 27 - from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, ON, NH2, and Ci-Cio-alkyl; Cs-Cio-heterocyclyl comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S; Cs-C -aryl; and Cs-Cio-heteroaryl comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S;Y is selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br, I, OC(=O)CF3, OSO2CF3, ON, CO, and OH.34. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 30, wherein the chemical compound C comprises a compound of formula (0)whereinM is selected from the group consisting of Ir, Ru, and Mn;L1and L2are, independently of each other, PRaRb, NRaRb, SRa, SH, and S(=O)Rd;L3is selected from the group consisting of CO, PRaRbRc, SRaRb, RaCN, RaNC, N2, PF3, pyridine, and thiophene;Ra, Rb, Rcand Rdare, independently of each other, selected from the group consisting of H, unsubstituted or substituted Ci-Cio-alkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, ON, NH2, and Ci-Cio-alkyl; unsubstituted or substituted Ci-Cio-cycloalkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, ON, NH2, and Ci-Cio-alkyl; Ca-Cio-heterocyclyl comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S; Cs-C -aryl; and Cs-Cio-heteroaryl comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S;Y is selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br, I, OC(=O)CF3, OSO2CF3, ON, CO, and OH.35. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 34, wherein M is selected from the group consisting of Ir and Ru, wherein M is preferably Ru.36. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 35, wherein M is Ru, and wherein the alcohol conversion conditions in (ill) comprise a temperature of the reaction mixture MG in the range of from 100 to 150 °C, preferably in the range of from 120 to 150 °C, more preferably in the range of from 130 to 150 °C.37. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 35, wherein L3is CO.38. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 35, wherein L1and L2are each (PRaRb), and wherein Raand Rbare Ci-Cio-alkyl, preferably wherein Raand Rbare each isopropyl or tert-butyl.240788W001- 28 -39. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 36, wherein L1and L2are each (PRaRb), and wherein Raand Rbare Ci-Cio-cycloalkyl, preferably wherein Raand Rbare each cyclohexyl.40. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 36, wherein L1and L2are each (PRaRb), and wherein Raand Rbare Cs-C -aryl.41 . The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 40, wherein Y is selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, and I, preferably wherein Y is selected from the group consisting of Cl or Br, more preferably wherein Y is Cl.42. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 40, wherein Y is CO.43. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 30, wherein t the chemical compound C comprises a compound of formula (D)wherein Cy is cyclohexyl.44. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 30, wherein the reduced form of the catalyst comprises a com- pound of formula (D’)wherein Cy is cyclohexyl.45. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 30, wherein the chemical compound C comprises a compound of formula (E)240788W001- 29 -wherein iPr is isopropyl.46. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 30, wherein the reduced form of the catalyst comprises a com- pound of formula (E’)wherein IPr is isopropyl.47. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 30, wherein the chemical compound C comprises a compound of formula (F)wherein tBu is tert-butyl.48. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 30, wherein the reduced form of the catalyst comprises a com- pound of formula (F’)wherein tBu is tert-butyl.240788W001- 30 -49. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 48, wherein integer x is 1 or 2, preferably wherein integer x is 1 .50. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 49, wherein R is selected from the group consisting of H, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, and tert-butyl, preferably from the group consisting of H, methyl, ethyl, propyl, and isopropyl, more preferably selected from the group consisting of H, ethyl, and propyl, wherein more preferably R is H.51 . The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 50, wherein the liquid mixture ME prepared in (II) further comprises a compound of formula (G)wherein R1, R2, R3and R4, L1, L2, and n are identical to R1, R2, R3and R4, L1, L2, and n of the catalyst of formula (A).52. The process of embodiment 51 , wherein in the liquid mixture ME prepared in (II) and subjected to alcohol version conditions in (ill), the molar ratio of the compound of formula (G) relative to the compound of formula (A) is in a range of from 0.01 :1 to 10:1 , preferably in the range of from 0.05:1 to 10: 1 , more preferably in the range of from 0.1 :1 to 10: 1 , more preferably in the range of from 0.1 :1 to 10: 1 , more preferably in the range of from 0.3: 1 to 10:1 , more preferably in the range of from 0.5:1 to 10: 1 , more preferably in the range of from 0.7:1 to 10:1 , more preferably in the range of from 0.8:1 to 10: 1 , more preferably in the range of from 1 :1 to 10:1 more preferably in the range of from 1.01 : 1 to 10:1 , more preferably in the range of from 1.02: 1 to 8:1 , more preferably in the range from 1.03:1 to 7: 1, more preferably in the range from 1.04:1 to 6:1 , and more preferably in the range from 1.05: 1 to 5:1.53. The process of embodiment 51 or 52, wherein the compound of formula (G) is selected from the group consisting of dicyclohexyl-[[5-(dicyclohexylphosphanylmethyl)acridin-4-yl]methyl]phosphane, diisopropyl-[[5-(diiso- propylphosphanylmethyl)acridin-4-yl]methyl]phosphane, dicyclohexyl-[[5-(dicyclohexylphosphanylmethyl)pyri- din-4-yl]methyl]phosphane and diisopropyl-[[5-(diisopropylphosphanylmethyl)pyridin-4-yl]methyl]phosphane, preferably wherein the compound of formula (G) is cyclohexyl-[[5-(dicyclohexylphosphanylmethyl)acridin-4- yl]methyl]phosphane or diisopropyl-[[5-(diisopropylphosphanylmethyl)acridin-4-yl]methyl]phosphane.54. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 30 and 49 to 53, wherein the reduced form of the precursor of the catalyst comprises a compound of formula (P-l) or (P-l I):240788W001- 31 -wherein R1, R2, R3and R4either are hydrogen, or form together with the N-containing ring a tetrahydroquinoline unit, a decahydroquinoline unit, a tetrahydroacridine unit, or a tetradecahydroacridine unit; and wherein L1and L2are, independently of each other, as defined above;wherein R1, R2, R3and R4are hydrogen; and wherein L1and L2are, independently of each other, as defined above.55. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 30 and 49 to 53, wherein the reduced form of the precursor of the catalyst comprises a compound of formula (P-l):wherein R1, R2, R3and R4either are hydrogen, or form together with the N-containing ring a tetrahydroacri- dine unit, or a tetradecahydroacridine unit.56. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 30 and 49 to 53, wherein the reduced form of the precursor of the catalyst comprises a compound of formula (P-l I):wherein R1, R2, R3and R4are hydrogen; and wherein L1and L2are, independently of each other, as defined above.240788W001- 32 -57. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 56, wherein the base is selected from the group consisting of alkali hydroxides, alkali alkoxides, and a mixture thereof.58. The process of embodiment 57, wherein the alkali hydroxide is selected from the group consisting of NaOH, KOH, and a mixture thereof, preferably wherein the alkali hydroxide is KOH.59. The process of embodiment 57, wherein the alkali alkoxide is selected from the group consisting of sodium alkoxides, potassium alkoxides, and a mixture thereof, preferably from the group consisting of sodium ethoxide, potassium ethoxide, and a mixture thereof.60. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 56, wherein the base is an alkali metal amide selected from the group consisting of alkali diisopropylamides, alkali bis(trimethylsilyl)amides, and a mixture thereof.61 . The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 60, wherein the at least one alcohol R-CH2-CH2-OH is a biobased alcohol, preferably obtainable or obtained from sugar-containing crops, preferably from one or more of sugar cane and corn.62. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 61 , wherein the liquid reaction mixture MG obtained in (ill) further comprises at least one unreacted alcohol R-CH2-CH2-OH, the process further comprising separating at least a part of said unreacted alcohol R-CH2-CH2-OH from the liquid reaction mixture MG.63. The process of embodiment 62, wherein separating at least a part of the unreacted alcohol R-CH2-CH2-OH from MG is carried out by distillation, extraction, flashing, or by employing a membrane.64. The process of embodiment 62 or 63, wherein at least a part of the at least one unreacted alcohol R-CH2- CH2-OH separated from MG is recycled to (II) or (ill).65. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 64, wherein the reaction space SR is comprised in a reactor vessel, wherein the reactor vessel is preferably a complete-mixing reactor vessel.66. A process, preferably according to any one of embodiments 1 to 65, comprising the step of converting a chemical material obtainable by or obtained by the process according to any one of embodiments 1 to 62 to obtain a product Q.67. The process of embodiment 66, wherein the product Q is selected from: building block or monomer; or240788W001- 33 - polymer, preferably polymer A, polymer composition, preferably polymer composition A, or polymer product, preferably polymer product A; or cleaning polymer, cleaning surfactant, descaling compound, cleaning biocide or composition or formulation thereof; or agrochemical composition, agrochemical formulation auxiliary or agrochemically active ingredient; or active pharmaceutical ingredient or intermediate thereof, pharmaceutical excipient, animal feed additive, human food additive, dietary supplements, aroma chemical or aroma composition; or aqueous polymer dispersion, preferably polyurethane or polyurethane - poly(meth)acrylate hybrid polymer dispersion, emulsion, binder for paper and fiber coatings, UV-curable acrylic polymer for hot melts and coatings polyisocyanates, hyperbranched polyester polyol, polymeric dispersant for inorganic binder compositions, unsaturated polyester polyol or 100% curable composition; or cosmetic surfactant, emollient, wax, cosmetic polymer, UV filter, further cosmetic ingredient or composition or formulation thereof; or polymer B, polymer composition B, coating composition, other functional composition, foil, molded body, coating or coated substrate.68. The process of embodiment 67, wherein the content of the chemical material in the product Q is 1 weight-% or more, preferably 2 weight-% or more, more preferably 5 weight-% or more, more preferably 15 weight-% or more, more preferably 30 weight- % or more, more preferably 40 weight-% or more, more preferably 60 weight-% or more, more preferably 80 weight-% or more, more preferably 90 weight-% or more, more preferably 95 weight-% or more; and / or wherein the content of the chemical material in the product Q is 100 weight-% or less, preferably 95 weight-% or less, more preferably 90 weight-% or less, more preferably 50 weight-% or less, more preferably 25 weight- % or less, more preferably 10 weight-% or less; and preferably wherein the content is determined based on identity preservation and / or segregation and / or mass balance and / or book and claim chain of custody models, preferably based on mass balance, preferably the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) standard.The present invention is further illustrated by the following examples, which are set forth to illustrate certain aspects of the present invention and are not to be construed as limiting thereof.ExamplesThe determination of the distribution coefficient of the solvent in water comprises the following steps:1. combining the two components, e.g. feed and solvent, in a predefined solvent ratio;2. turbulent mixing of the combined components over a longer period of time (> 10 min) at a defined extraction temperature;240788W001- 34 -3. allowing for phase separation;4. taking samples of each phase at the extraction temperature;5. centrifuging the samples and withdrawing clear samples at the extraction temperature;6. analyzing the samples; and7. comparing the results of extract- and raffinate - calculation of the partition equilibrium / partition coefficient at the selected temperature.Example 1In a glovebox, an autoclave was filled with 70.06 g ethanol, 173.7 mg [Ru(4,5-bis[(dicyclohexylphosphanyl)methyl]ac- ridine)(H)(CI)(CO)], 136.0 mg 4,5-bis[(dicyclohexylphosphanyl)methyl]acridine, 7.93 g 2-propylheptan-1-ol as a solvent, and 3.80 g potassium ethoxide. The stirrer was set at 700 rpm and the reaction mixture was heated to 160 °C. The reaction mixture was kept under autogenous pressure for 24 h and then cooled to room temperature. The autoclave was carefully depressurized. The yellow-orange reaction mixture (82 g) was analyzed by gaschromatography and contained, besides the added solvent 2-propylheptan-1-ol, 7.78 wt.-% water, 42.46 wt.-% ethanol, 26.57 wt.-% n- butanol and 6.07 wt.-% 1 -hexanol (formed by a consecutive Guerbet reaction of n-butanol with ethanol).Example 2In a glovebox, an autoclave was filled with 70.59 g ethanol, 90.9 mg [Ru(AcAc)3], 273.9 mg 4,5-bis[(dicyclohex- ylphosphanyl)methyl]acridine, 7.6 g of a mixture of 45 wt.-% 2-ethylhexan-1-ol, 45 wt.-% 2-butyloctanol-1-ol and 10 wt.-% 2-propylheptan-1-ol as a solvent, and 5.13 g KOH-solution (50wt% in H2O). The stirrer was set at 700 rpm and the reaction mixture was heated to 160 °C. The reaction mixture was kept under autogenous pressure for 24 h and then cooled to room temperature. The autoclave was carefully depressurized. The yellow-orange reaction mixture (84 g) was analyzed by gaschromatography and contained, besides the added solvent, 10.11 wt.-% water, 46.43 wt.-% ethanol, 25.05 wt.-% n-butanol and 5.02 wt.-% 1 -hexanol (formed by a consecutive Guerbet reaction of n-butanol with ethanol).Example 3In a glovebox, an autoclave was filled with 70.20 g ethanol, 90.1 mg [Ru(AcAc)3], 271.3 mg 4,5-bis[(dicyclohex- ylphosphanyl)methyl]acridine, 8.27 g of a mixture of 45wt.-% 2-ethylhexan-1-ol, 45wt% 2-butyloctanol-1-ol and 10wt.- % 2-propylheptan-1-ol as a solvent, and 5.09 g KOH-solution (5O.-wt% in H2O). The stirrer was set at 700 rpm and the reaction mixture was heated to 150 °C. The reaction mixture was kept under autogenous pressure for 24 h and then cooled to room temperature. The autoclave was carefully depressurized. The yellow-orange reaction mixture (84 g) was analyzed by gaschromatography and contained, besides the added solvent, 9.47 wt.-% water, 47.52 wt.-% ethanol, 23.79 wt.-% n-butanol and 3.97 wt.-% 1 -hexanol (formed by a consecutive Guerbet reaction of n-butanol with ethanol).240788W001- 35 -Example 4In a glovebox, an autoclave was filled with 69.3 g ethanol, 88.4 mg [Ru(AcAc)3], 266.9 mg 4,5-bis[(dicyclohex- ylphosphanyl)methyl]acridine, 7.94 g of a mixture of 45wt% 2-ethylhexan-1-ol, 45wt% 2-butylocatnol-1-ol and 10wt% 2-propylheptan-1-ol as a solvent, and 5.00 g KOH-solution (50wt% in H2O). The stirrer was set at 700 rpm and the reaction mixture was heated to 170 °C. The reaction mixture was kept under autogenous pressure for 24 h and then cooled to room temperature. The autoclave was carefully depressurized. The yellow-orange reaction mixture (84 g) was analyzed by gaschromatography and contained, besides the added solvent, 10.60 wt.-% water, 41.94 wt.-% ethanol, 23.71 wt.-% n-butanol and 5.64 wt.-% 1 -hexanol (formed by a consecutive Guerbet reaction of n-butanol with ethanol).Example 5In a glovebox, an autoclave was filled with 73.10 g ethanol, 271.1 mg Ru(acac)3 (ruthenium(lll) acetylacetonate), 815.4 mg 4,5-bis[(dicyclohexylphosphanyl)methyl]acridine, 7.75 g 2-propylheptan-1-ol as a solvent, and 5.08 g potassium ethoxide. The stirrer was set at 700 rpm and the reaction mixture was heated to 160 °C. The reaction mixture was kept under autogenous pressure for 24 h and then cooled to room temperature. The autoclave was carefully depressurized. The yellow-orange reaction mixture (87 g) was analyzed by gaschromatography and contained, besides the added solvent 2-propylheptan-1-ol, 10.59 wt.-% water, 44.10 wt.-% ethanol, 24.46 wt.-% n-butanol and 3.77 wt.-% 1-hexanol (formed by a consecutive Guerbet reaction of n-butanol with ethanol). Under reduced pressure of 300 mbar, ethanol was distilled off until the mixture contained less then 1 wt.-% ethanol (detected by gas chromatography). This mixture was washed with 30 mL of degassed water to remove the salt as unreacted base and potassium acetate formed from the base.The remaining organic phase (8 g) consting of the high boiling alcohols as well as the ruthenium catalyst an excess ligand was then used for a recycling experiment. In the recycling, 72 g ethanol and 5.3 g of a 40 wt.-% KOH solution in water was added and filled in an autoclave. The stirrer was set at 700 rpm and the reaction mixture was heated to 160 °C. The reaction mixture was kept under autogenous pressure for 24 h and then cooled to room temperature. The autoclave was carefully depressurized. The yellow-orange reaction mixture (86 g) was analyzed by gaschromatography and contained, besides the added solvent 2-propylheptan-1-ol, 13.21 wt.-% water, 68.02 wt.-% ethanol, 8.45 wt.-% n- butanol and 1 wt.-% 1-hexanol (formed by a consecutive Guerbet reaction of n-butanol with ethanol).Table 1240788W001- 36 -As may be seen from Table 1 , using 2-propylheptan-1-ol as a solvent, a complete recycle was observed, including aqueous work-up. Product formation was still observed after the recycle. The lower conversions were to be expected since the catalysts are very sensitive to air and catalyst losses in the work-up as well as the use of another base in the recycling (50 wt.-% KOH in water instead of KOEt).Example 6In a glovebox, an autoclave was filled with 70.20 g ethanol, 90.40 mg Ru(acac)3 (ruthenium(lll) acetylacetonate), 281 .2 mg 4,5-bis[(dicyclohexylphosphanyl)methyl]acridine, 7.72 g of a mixture of 2-ethyl-hexan-1-ol (45 wt.-%), 2-butyl-oc- tan-1-ol (45 wt.-%) and 2-propylheptan-1-ol (10 wt.-%) as a solvent, as well as 4.9 g of a 50 wt.-% solution of KOH in water. The stirrer was set at 750 rpm and the reaction mixture was heated to 170 °C. The reaction mixture was kept under autogenous pressure for 24 h and then cooled to room temperature. The autoclave was carefully depressurized. The yellow-orange reaction mixture (65.4 g) was analyzed by gaschromatography and contained, besides the added solvent mixture 2-propylheptan-1-ol / 2-ethyl-hexan-1-ol / 2-butyl-octan-1-ol, 7.69 wt.-% water, 59.82 wt.-% ethanol, 16.71 wt.-% butanol and 2.90 wt.-% 1 -hexanol (formed by a consecutive Guerbet reaction of n-butanol with ethanol). Under reduced pressure of 300 mbar, ethanol was distilled off until the mixture contained less than 1 wt.-% ethanol (detected by gas chromatography) and 17.1 g of the high boiling fraction containing the catalyst remained. This mixture was washed three times with 3.4 g of degassed water remove the salt as unreacted base and potassium acetate formed from the base. From the remaining organic phase, all further volatile compounds (mainly water and 1-butnaol) where then distilled-off.The remaining organic phase (5.3 g) costing of the high boiling alcohols as well as the ruthenium catalyst an excess ligand was then used for a recycling experiment. In the recycling, 72 g ethanol and 5.31 g of a 40 wt.-% KOH solution in water was added and filled in an autoclave. The stirrer was set at 750 rpm and the reaction mixture was heated to 170 °C. The reaction mixture was kept under autogenous pressure for 24 h and then cooled to room temperature. The autoclave was carefully depressurized. The yellow-orange reaction mixture (85.3 g) was analyzed by gaschromatography and contained, besides the added solvent mixture 2-propy I heptan- 1 -ol / 2-ethy l-hexan- 1 -ol / 2-buty l-octan- 1 -ol 7.78 wt.-% water, 71.88 wt.-% ethanol, 8.63 wt.-% n-butanol and 1.76 wt.-% 1 -hexanol (formed by a consecutive Guerbet reaction of n-butanol with ethanol).240788W001- 37 -Table 2As may be seen from Table 2, using the solvent mixture 2-propylheptan-1-ol / 2-ethyl-hexan-1-ol / 2-butyl-octan-1-ol, a complete recycle was observed, including aqueous work-up. Product formation was still observed after the recycle. The lower conversions were to be expected since the catalysts are very sensitive to air and catalyst / material losses in the work-up.Example 7In a glovebox, an autoclave was filled with 69.0 g ethanol, 82.4 mg Ru(acac)3 (ruthenium(lll) acetylacetonate), 249.0 mg 4,5-bis[(dicyclohexyl phosphany l)methy I] acrid! ne, 7.54 g 2-hexyl-decanol as a solvent, and 5.00 g KOH-solution (50 wt.-% in H2O). The stirrer was set at 700 rpm and the reaction mixture was heated to 150 °C. The reaction mixture was kept under autogenous pressure for 24 h and then cooled to room temperature. The autoclave was carefully depressurized. The yellow-orange reaction mixture (81.7 g) was analyzed by gas chromatography and contained, besides the added solvent, 10.56 wt.-% water, 43.34 wt.-% ethanol, 26.89 wt.-% n-butanol and 5.03 wt.-% 1 -hexanol (formed by a consecutive Guerbet reaction of n-butanol with ethanol).Comparative Example 1In a glovebox, an autoclave was filled with 71.0 g ethanol, 86.2 mg Ru(acac)3 (ruthenium(lll) acetylacetonate), 258.9 mg 4,5-bis[(dicyclohexylphosphanyl)methyl]acridine, 7.93 g 1 -octanol as a solvent, and 4.97 g KOH-solution (50 wt.- % in H2O). The stirrer was set at 700 rpm and the reaction mixture was heated to 150 °C. The reaction mixture was kept under autogenous pressure for 24 h and then cooled to room temperature. The autoclave was carefully depressurized. The yellow-orange reaction mixture (84.3 g) was analyzed by gas chromatography and contained, besides the added solvent, 12.49 wt.-% water, 41.13 wt.-% ethanol, 26.72 wt.-% n-butanol and 5.63 wt.-% 1-hexanol (formed by a consecutive Guerbet reaction of n-butanol with ethanol). 1 -Octanol was found at the end of the reaction with 8.31 wt.-% compared with 10.06 wt.-% in the initial reaction mixture. 2.44 wt.-% 1 -Decanol were also detected the end of the240788W001- 38 - reaction which was formed by the Guerbet reaction of 1 -Octanol with Ethanol and is in line with the consumption of the 1 -Octanol during the reaction.In Comparative Example 1 , 1 -octanol was used as a solvent. Since ethanol is present in large excess, 1 -octanol reacted not with itself but statistically with the ethanol in excess. As a result, approximately 2.5 % of 1 -octanol has reacted to form 1 -decanol, similar to how 1 -hexanol originates from a subsequent reaction of butanol and ethanol. A comparison of Example 7 with Comparative Example 1 demonstrates that linear high-boiling alcohols continue to react, while 2- branched alcohols do not. Cited literature:M. Guerbet, C. R. Hebd. Seances Acad. Sci. 1899, 128, p. 511-513- WO 2005 / 087696 A1- EP 1 182 189 B1- US 2013 / 324770 A1 - US 2010 / 298613 A1Y.Xie et al., "Highly efficient Process for Production of Biofuel from ethanol Catalyzed by Ruthenium Pincer Complexes”, Journal of the American Society, vol. 138, no. 29, 2016-07-18, pages 9077 to 9080

Claims

240788W001- 39 -Claims1 . An alcohol conversion process, comprising(i) providing a chemical component C comprising one or more of a catalyst, a precursor of the catalyst, a reduced form of the catalyst, and a reduced form of the precursor of the catalyst;(ii) preparing a liquid mixture ME comprising at least one alcohol R-CH2-CH2-OH, a base, a solvent component S, and the chemical component C provided in (i), R being selected from the group consisting of H and Ci-C4-alkyl;(iii) subjecting the liquid mixture ME prepared in (ii) to alcohol conversion conditions in a reaction space SR and obtaining in said reaction space a reaction mixture MG comprising at least one alcohol R-CH2-CH2- (CHR-CH2)X-OH, x being an integer in the range of from 1 to 4, wherein the alcohol conversion conditions comprise a temperature of the reaction mixture MG in the range of from 100 to 250 °C and a pressure in the reaction space S in the range of from 1 x 105Pa to 4 x 106Pa;(iv) separating the at least one alcohol R-CH2-CH2-(CHR-CH2)X-OH from the reaction mixture MG obtained in (iii), obtaining the at least one alcohol R-CH2-CH2-(CHR-CH2)X-OH and a mixture Mcs comprising the catalyst and the solvent component S;(v) recycling at least a part of the catalyst and at least a part of the solvent component S comprised in the mixture Mcs obtained in (iv) to (ii), wherein the recycled solvent component S comprises at least part of the solvent component S of the liquid mixture ME prepared in (ii); wherein(a) the base is selected from the group consisting of alkali hydroxides, alkaline earth hydroxides, alkali carbonates, alkali hydrogen carbonates, alkaline earth carbonates, alkaline hydrogen carbonates, alkali alkoxides, alkaline earth alkoxides, alkali metal diisopropylamides, alkaline earth metal diisopropylamides, alkali metal bis(trimethylsilyl)amides, alkaline earth metal bis(trimethylsilyl)amides, alkali metal-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidinides, alkaline earth metal-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidinides, secondary amino acids, and a mixture of two or more thereof;(b) the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent which has a boiling point of at least 110 °C at atmospheric pressure, wherein said at least one solvent has a solubility in water at 25 °C of from 0 to 1 weight-%, and wherein the at least one solvent is a primary alcohol RS-OH, with Rsbeing straight, branched or cyclic aliphatic alkyl consisting of C6-C20; wherein the at least one solvent is different from at least one alcohol R-CH2-CH2-OH;(c) the catalyst comprises a compound of formula (A)240788W001- 40 -whereinM is selected from the group consisting of Ir, Mn, Os, Pd, Pt, Rh, and Ru;L1and L2are, independently of each other, PRaRb, NRaRb, SRa, SH, and S(=O)Rd;L3is selected from the group consisting of CO, PRaRbRc, SRaRb, RaCN, RaNC, N2, PF3, pyridine, and thiophene;R1, R2, R3and R4either are hydrogen, or form together with the pyridyl unit of the catalyst of formula (A) an acridinyl unit; n is 0 or 1 , and if R1, R2, R3and R4are hydrogen, n is 0;Ra, Rb, Rcand Rdare, independently of each other, selected from the group consisting of H, unsubstituted or substituted C1-C10 alkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, ON, NH2, and Ci-Cio-alkyl; unsubstituted or substituted Ci-Cio-cycloalkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, ON, NH2, and C1-C10 alkyl; C3-C10- heterocyclyl comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S; C5- Cio-aryl; and Cs-Cio-heteroary I comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S;Y is selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br, I, OC(=O)CF3, OSO2CF3, ON, CO, and OH;(d) the precursor of the catalyst comprising a compound of formula (A) comprises a mixture comprising a compound comprising a metal M and at least one component selected from the group consisting of CO, PRaRbRc, SRaRb, RaCN, RaNC, N2, PF3, organic carbonyl compounds, Ci-Cio-alkyl, Ci-Ci2-cycloal- kyl, C2-Ci2-alkenyl, Cs-Cis-cycloalkenyl, C5-C2o-aryl, ON, CO, OH, OC(=O)CF3, OSO2CF3, phosphanes, hydrides, pyridines, halogenides, hydroxides, and thiophenes; and a compound of formula (H)wherein M is selected from the group consisting of Ir, Mn, Os, Pd, Pt, Rh, and Ru;L1and L2are, independently of each other, PRaRb, NRaRb, SRa, SH, and S(=O)Rd;240788W001- 41 -R1, R2, R3and R4either are hydrogen, or form together with the pyridyl unit of the catalyst comprising a compound of formula (A) an acridinyl unit; n is 0 or 1 , and if R1, R2, R3and R4are hydrogen, n is 0;Ra, Rb, Rcand Rdare, independently of each other, selected from the group consisting of H, unsubstituted or substituted Ci-Cio-alkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, ON, NH2, and Ci-C -alkyl; unsubstituted or substituted Ci-Cio-cycloalkyl wherein the substituents are selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, Br, OH, ON, NH2, and Ci-Cio-alkyl; C3-C10- heterocycle comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S; C5- Cio-aryl; and Cs-Cio-heteroary I comprising at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of N, 0, and S.

2. The process of claim 1 , wherein the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent selected from the group consisting of 2-ethylbutan-1-ol, 2-ethylhexan-1-ol, 2-ethyloctan-1-ol, 2-ethyldecan-1-ol, 2-ethyldodecan- 1-ol, 2-butylhexan-1-ol, 2-butyloctan-1-ol, 2-butyldecan-1-ol, 2-butyldodecan-1-ol, 2-hexyldecan-1-ol, 2-oc- tyldodecan-1 -ol, 2-propylheptan-1-ol, and a mixture of two or more thereof.

3. The process of claim 1 or 2, wherein a distribution coefficient of the chemical component G in a system of the solvent component S and water is from 0 to 0.01 , based on 1 kg of the chemical component C.

4. The process of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the alcohol conversion conditions in (ill) comprise an amount of the solvent component S in the reaction mixture MG in the range of from 5 to 50 weight-%, preferably in the range of from 5 to 30 weight-%, more preferably in the range of from 5 to 10 weight-%, based on the total weight of the reaction mixture MG.

5. The process of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the solvent component S comprises at least one solvent which is a primary alcohol RS-OH which is branched at the 2-position, with Rsbeing an aliphatic alkyl consisting of six to twenty carbon atoms branched at the 2-position, more preferably wherein Rsis an aliphatic alkyl consisting of eight to twenty carbon atoms branched at the 2-position.

6. The process of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the solvent component S comprises a mixture of at least two solvents each being a primary alcohol RS-OH, Rsbeing straight, branched or cyclic aliphatic alkyl consisting of C6-C16, preferably wherein Rsis straight aliphatic alkyl consisting of C8-C20.

7. The process of any one of claim 1 to 6, wherein M is selected from the group consisting of Ir and Ru.

8. The process of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the chemical component C comprises a compound of formula (D)240788W001- 42 -wherein Cy is cyclohexyl.

9. The process of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the chemical component C comprises a compound of for- mula (E)wherein IPr is isopropyl.

10. The process of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the chemical component C comprises a compound of for- mula (F)wherein tBu is tert-butyl.11 . The process of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the reduced form of the precursor of the catalyst comprises a compound of formula (wherein R1, R2, R3and R4either are hydrogen, or form together with the N-containing ring a tetrahydroquinoline unit, a decahydroquinoline unit, a tetrahydroacridine unit, or a tetradecahydroacridine unit; and wherein L1and L2are, independently of each other, as defined above;240788W001- 43 -wherein R1, R2, R3and R4are hydrogen; and wherein L1and L2are, independently of each other, as defined above.

12. The process of any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein x is 1.

13. The process of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein R is selected from the group consisting of H, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, and tert-butyl.

14. The process of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the liquid mixture ME prepared in (II) further comprises a compound of formula (G)wherein R1, R2, R3and R4’ L1, L2and n are identical to R1, R2, R3and R4’ L1, L2and n of the catalyst of formula (A).

15. A process, preferably according to any one of claims 1 to 14, comprising the step of converting a chemical material obtainable by or obtained by the process according to any one of claims 1 to 14 to obtain a product Q.

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