Catalytic oxidation of 2,6-diisopropylnaphthalene (2,6-DIPN) to 2,6-naphthalene dicarboxylic acid (2,6-NDCA) was studied with two new catalysts prepared by immobilization of Co/Mn nano-hybrid particles over calcined cow bone, and pyrolyzed wood. The catalysts have the advantage of very cheap supports, and easy catalyst recovery. The effects of Co/Mn atomic ratio, reaction time and temperature, oxygen pressure, amount of catalyst, and the support on the conversion of 2,6-DIPN and product/intermediate yields were investigated. There was an interesting synergistic effect of cobalt and manganese catalysts. The maximum product (2,6-NDCA) yield was 100%, obtained at a Co/Mn atomic ratio of 10 supported on pyrolyzed wood. Lower cobalt concentration resulted the lower 2,6-NDCA yield, which was ascribed to the intermediate products formation. The catalysts were characterized in detail by SEM/EDS, BET surface area, and TEM measurements. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) measurements indicated nanoparticles (diameter of about 2-5 nm) on the surface of the supports. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.