Ag/gamma-Al2O3 catalysts, containing 5 and 25wt% Ag, were synthesized by the slurry phase impregnation method. They were tested for the liquid phase continuous flow preferential hydrogenation of octanal in a mixture with octene. The catalysts were characterised by XRD, IR, BET, SEM, TEM and NH3-TPD. These catalysts showed strong preference for octanal hydrogenation, irrespective of reaction temperature or silver loading. A maximum octanal conversion of 90% with selectivity towards octanol of 94% was achieved over 25wt% Ag/gamma-Al2O3 at 180 degrees C with minimal octene conversion (<3%). [GRAPHICS] .