The Ni-based spinel-type oxides, NiB(2)O(4) (B = Al, Fe, Mn), were investigated for their catalysis of the ethanol steam reforming reaction. Ethanol conversion over spinel-type oxides without reduction treatment was comparable to that over gamma-alumina-supported Ni catalyst with reduction. The spinel oxide of NiAl(2)O(4) showed extremely stable performance for 48 h, while the activity of NiFe(2)O(4) and NiMn(2)O(4) catalysts was reduced by carbon deposition. Catalyst stability for reforming reaction was closely related to the stability of the nickel metal dispersed on the catalyst surface and the spinel structure. Differences in crystallinity and surface area among the catalysts were not crucial factors for determining ethanol conversion for NiAl(2)O(4) calcined between 800 degrees C and 1100 degrees C. The catalyst calcined at 900 degrees C exhibited the highest activity for the reforming reaction. (C) 2009 Professor T. Nejat Veziroglu. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.