MgAl2O4 was synthesized through hydrolysis of metallic alkoxides of Mg2+ and Al3+. The formed spinel precursor phase was calcined at temperatures between 600 and 1100 degrees C, for 4 h. The spinel was utilized as a Ni/Pt catalyst support. The Ni/MgAl2O4 catalysts (15% Ni, w/w) containing small amounts of Pt were tested for methane steam reforming. The solids were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), temperature programmed reduction (TPR) with H-2 and catalytic tests. The spinel phase was formed at temperatures above 700 degrees C. The addition of small amounts of Pt to Ni/MgAl2O4 promoted an increase in surface area. This probably caused the considerable increase in methane conversion. (c) 2006 Elsevier EN. All fights reserved.