Ce1-xMnxO2 (x=0.1-0.6) mixed oxides were used as supports for preparing 7%CuO/Ce1-xMnxO2 catalysts by impregnation, for use in the total oxidation of benzene. At x=0.1 and 0.2, most of manganese was fixed in the fluorite structure of CeO2 to form a solid solution. When x exceeds 0.3, some of the manganese appeared as well dispersed MnOx. The redox interaction between CuO and Ce0.7Mn0.3O2 facilitated the activation of surface oxygen for the oxidation of benzene. The defective sites of oxygen on the dispersed MnOx also enhanced the adsorption and oxidation of benzene. 7%CuO/Ce0.7Mn0.3O2 catalyst was a good candidate for replacing noble metal catalysts for the removal of benzene in low concentrations at low temperature. (C) 2011 Elsevier By. All rights reserved.