The performance of La2NiO4 perovskite catalysts, prepared using a citric acid complexation method, for the partial oxidation of methane to synthesis gas has been studied. The catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), specific surface area measurements, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The experimental studies show that the calcination temperature and the amount of citric acid (CA) have a significant influence on the characteristics of the catalysts and their catalytic activity. Among the catalysts tested, the La2NiO4 catalyst calcined at 850 degrees C with a molar ratio of La:Ni:CA=2:13 exhibited the best activity and excellent stability as well as very low coke formation. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.