Chemoselective synthesis of ethanol via hydrogenation of dimethyl oxalate on Cu/SiO2: Enhanced stability with boron dopant

► A low-cost copper-based catalyst for synthesis of ethanol with high efficiency. ► Boron modification is a readily available approach for improving the stability. ► Boron could improve the copper dispersion and suppress the growth of Cu particles. ► Boron affects the acidic/basic sites and enhances the metal-support interaction.