Studies of the chemical preparation, surface area, pore distribution,
powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-
ray photoelectron spectra (XPS) and acid-base properties of magnesia-a
lumina composite oxides were carried out. The preparation method led t
o supports with high surface areas where Mg was homogeneously distribu
ted upon the surface. The base properties of the composite oxides can
be controlled by the Mg loading for an optimum catalyst performance.