Both the preparation and the characterization of vanadyl pyrophosphate (VPO) supported on new heat-conductive ceramic supports (beta -SiC, Si3N4, and BN) are described. These catalysts provide a very significant gain in maleic anhydride yield by reacting air and butane in a fixed-bed reactor, because of control of the catalyst surface temperature. The stable high maleic anhydride selectivity at high temperature, ensured by the presence of the support, allows the use of significantly high partial pressures of butane. In addition, the beta -SiC support protects the catalyst against high-temperature accidental excursions.