Nickel catalysts over the CeO2ZrO2 solid solution were successfully prepared by the co-precipitation method for partial oxidation of methane. The structures of the catalysts were systematically examined by N-2 adsorption/desorption, CO chemisorption, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and H-2-TPR techniques. The catalytic performance and carbon deposition were investigated for partial oxidation of methane as well. The results showed that the Ni/CeO2-ZrO2 catalysts had a large BET area and fine Ni dispersion. By the co-precipitation method, Ni and CeO2-ZrO2 solid solution had strong interaction confirmed by the H-2-TPR analysis. The Ni/CeO2-ZrO2 catalysts showed high activity and stability and the Ni/Ce0.25Zr0.75O2 exhibited the best activity and coking resistance among these catalysts. The catalytic activities and coking resistant behaviors of catalysts were affected by the surface and structural properties of the catalysts. (C) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.