The temperature-programmed O-2 desorption (O-2-TPD), the N-2- and Kr-sorption as well as the scanning-electron microscope (SEM) are important analysis methods in catalysis chemistry. By the example of a corundum and of a calcium hexaaluminate substrate the methods are used and the potential regarding to the surface properties and the activity of the assigned catalysts thereby pointed. Which of the two catalyst systems for the Ag-catalyzed epoxidation of 1,3-butadiene to 3,4-epoxy-1-butene is more favorable is tested in a tubular reactor.