The catalytic decomposition of acrylonitrile over various metal components (Mg, Ca, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, Pd, Ag, and Pt) supported on several metal oxides (Al2O3, SiO2, TiO2, ZrO2, and MgO) and ZSM-5 was studied. The most promising catalyst was Cu-ZSM-5, which exhibited 100% conversion and at least 80% N-2 selectivity above 350degreesC.