New structured catalysts composed by ZSM-5 coatings on beta-SiC foam have been synthesized and characterized. The obtained coatings are well homogeneous in shape and small in crystal size of around 1 mu m. Reaction of pure methanol or ethanol or a mixture of both was studied on ZSM-5/SiC composites. ZSM-5/SiC catalysts show an excellent and stable conversion, as well as high selectivity towards light olefins depending on starting alcohol (60% to ethylene and propylene at 75% of conversion for methanol and even higher selectivity for a continuously increasing conversion of ethanol). The use of ZSM-5 coated on beta-SiC foam packings in the alcohol-to-olefins reaction present substantial activity/selectivity improvements when compared to conventional catalyst in form of powder or extrudates. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.