Hydrogenation processes using a catalyst composition which, preferably comprises a glass substrate, with one or more functional surface active constituents integrated on and/or in the substrate surface. A substantially nonporous substrate has (i) a total surface area between about 0.01 m2/g and 10 m2/g; and (ii) a predetermined isoelectric point (IEP) obtained in a pH range greater than 0, preferably greater than or equal to 4.5, or more preferably greater than or equal to 6.0, but less than or equal to 14. At least one catalytically-active region may be contiguous or discontiguous and has a mean thickness less than or equal to about 30 nm, preferably less than or equal to 20 nm and more preferably less than or equal to 10 nm. Preferably, the substrate is a glass composition having a SARCNa less than or equal to about 0.5.