The present work explores the viability of introducing improvements to the conventional process of hydrogenation using structured catalysts. Monolithic catalysts of anodized aluminum were prepared and characterized. They were impregnated with palladium and used as monolithic stirrers in the sunflower oil hydrogenation reaction at 100 degrees C and 413 kPa. The monolithic catalysts showed to be active, with a 50% C=C conversion in 30 min. When consecutive tests were performed, a loss of activity was observed, decreasing 80% in the sixth test, which is attributed to the presence of carbonaceous residues. (c) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.