LaCoO3 prepared by reactive grinding proves to be able to possess smaller particle size as well as greater specific surface area than LaCoO3 prepared by citrate method. The reduction of the former to Co-0/La2O3 requires a higher temperature than the reduction of the latter. Due to more difficult reduction, LaCoO3 prepared by reactive grinding displays a better stability of perovskite structure under a reducing atmosphere. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.