In this work a series of magnetite were prepared by impregnating of natural goethite (limonite) with glycerol before thermal treatment under N-2 flow at 300, 400 and 500 degrees C. The formation of carbon spots (island) over magnetite was found. The magnetite was found to be the main phase after treatment at 400 and 500 degrees C with high content of Fe2+, which is the active specie in a Fenton like system. Furthermore, iron oxide particles with magnetic and amphiphilic properties were formed, which are interesting for using as a catalyst in refineries. All materials presented high catalytic activities for oxidation of quinoline and dibenzothiophene in a biphasic reaction system (water/toluene). (C) 2012 Published by Elsevier B.V.