Copper modified MCM-41 silica materials obtained by various preparation techniques are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), temperature programmed reduction (TPR) and FTIR spectroscopy of adsorbed CO. The copper state in the samples is controlled by the preparation method used. The catalytic activity and selectivity of the samples in methanol dehydrogenation are also compared. The role of different copper species in the catalytic process is discussed. (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.