This invention relates to an improved catalyst, comprising a carbon
support having a noble metal at its surface, for use in catalyzing liquid
phase oxidation reactions, especially in an acidic oxidative environment
and in the presence of solvents, reactants, intermediates, or products
which solubilize noble metals; a process for the preparation of the
improved catalyst; a liquid phase oxidation process using such a catalyst
wherein the catalyst exhibits improved resistance to noble metal
leaching, particularly in acidic oxidative environments and in the
presence of solvents, reactants, intermediates, or products which
solubilize noble metals; and a liquid phase oxidation process in which
N-(phosphonomethyl)iminodiacetic acid (i.e., "PMIDA") or a salt thereof
is oxidized to form N-(phosphonomethyl) glycine (i.e., "glyphosate") or a
salt thereof using such a catalyst wherein the oxidation of the
formaldehyde and formic acid by-products into carbon dioxide and water is
increased.