Catalysts based on Si-Mo heteropoly compounds (HPC) supported on carriers were investigated in oxidative dehydrogenation of ethane (ODE) to ethylene. Determination of the effect of reaction parameters and the nature of catalyst on composition and distribution of products was carried out. The optimal reaction conditions: C2H6 - 20.0%, O-2 - 2.5%, N-2 - 57.5%, H2O - 20.0%, space velocity - 8000 h(-1), contact time -0.45 s were installed. Ethylene yields exceeding 42% with selectivity above 87% were obtained over novel Pb-Si-Mo heteropoly compound catalysts under oxidative dehydrogenation of ethane at 1023 K. Water vapor in the composition of reaction mixture increases the yield and selectivity of ODE products. Supporting of Si-Mo HPC on aluminosilicate does not destroy the Keggin molecular structure and increases its thermal stability. Reduction of heteropoly acid (HPA) molecule in methane atmosphere is different from the reduction in hydrogen atmosphere. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.