Deoxygenation of methyl esters and triglycerides was studied for production of either alpha-olefins or diesel components. The reactions were carried out in a reactive distillation fashion in which products are quickly removed from the reaction mixture in flowing He. The effects of He flow rate, reaction temperature, active component and support were studied. PtSnK supported on silica was found to be the best catalyst for selective production of alpha-olefins. Palm kernel oil and coconut oil were also deoxygenated to produce alpha-olefins or diesel components, depending on reaction conditions. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.