OXIDATION CATALYST

PURPOSE:To obtain a novel oxidation catalyst which replaces a conventional three-component metal catalyst by making the catalyst of complex oxide having a cubic structure which contains Bi, Pb, Sr, Ca, and Cu. CONSTITUTION:In the actual composition of complex oxide having a cubic structure which contains Bi, Pb, Sr, Ca, and Cu, when the molar ratio of Sr is 2, the molar ratios of other components are: Bi 1.8-2.2, Ca 2.0-3.5, Cu 3.0-4.5, Pb 0.1-0.5, respectively, and K, Li, and Na can be incorporated in a molar ratio of 0.05-0.6 to improve a sintering property. The complex oxide, after being molded if desired, is baked at 800-900 deg.C for 1-100hr in an oxidizing atmosphere to make the catalyst. In this way, the specified complex oxide of inexpensive metals can be used as an oxidation catalyst, and hydrocarbons, etc., can be decomposed at lower temperatures.