Process for the preparation of bicycloalkane derivatives

In a process for the production of a bicycloalkane derivative of the formula ##STR5## wherein n is the integer 1 or 2;

• R is methyl or ethyl, and X and Y collectively are oxo, alkylenedioxy of 2-6 carbon atoms inclusive and 2-3 bridging carbon atoms or phenylenedioxy or X is a hydrogen atom and Y is hydroxy, alkoxy of 1-6 carbon atoms, inclusive, or acyloxy wherein acyl is the acyl radical of a hydrocarbon carboxylic acid of 1-8 carbon atoms, inclusive, by the hydrogenation of a compound of the formula ##STR6## wherein n, R, X and Y have the values given above, with hydrogen and a palladium-, platinum-, or rhodium-containing hydrogenation catalyst, the improvement which comprises hydrogenating the starting compound as its alkali metal salt in water at about 0.degree. C.