Abstract: We studied the catalytic behaviour of silicotungstic acid and its salt in the oxidative dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene to styrene. The carbonaceous material formed on the surface was considered to be the active sites for the oxidative dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene; the yield of styrene increases with the increase of C/H value of carbonaceous material; the specific surface of supports has a remarkable effect on the activation of catalysts. Benzole acid was discovered in the products and the oxidation of the carbonaceous material is the major source of CO_x.

Key words: Oxidative dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene, Silicotungstic acid, Siyrene