Pt-Ru, Pt and Ru catalysts supported on zirconia were prepared by impregnation method and were tested in selective oxidation of methylamine (MA) in aqueous media. Among three catalysts, Ru/ZrO2 was more active than Pt/ZrO2 while Pt-Ru/ZrO2 demonstrated the best catalytic activity due to the fact that Pt addition efficiently promoted the dispersion of active species in bimetallic catalyst. Therefore, the similar to 100% TOC conversion and N-2 selectivity were achieved over Pt-Ru/ZrO2, Pt/ZrO2 and Ru/ZrO2 catalysts at 190, 220 and 250 degrees C, respectively. (C) 2015 The Chemical Industry and Engineering Society of China, and Chemical Industry Press. All rights reserved.