Catalytic activity of the Co-Mn-Al mixed oxide catalysts (Co:Mn:Al molar ratio of 4:1:1) supported over titania was examined in total oxidation of ethanol. The prepared catalysts were characterized by chemical analysis (AAS), surface area measurements, and temperature programmed techniques (TPR, TPD). In ethanol oxidation, the catalysts activity gradually increased with increasing active phase content. Low concentration of Co-Mn-Al oxides in the catalyst negatively affected formation of reaction byproducts: carbon monoxide production steeply increased when Co + Mn metals concentration were lower than 5 wt.%. On the other hand, formation of the second main reaction intermediate, acetaldehyde was limited, when acidity of the catalyst was not high, i.e. concentration of Co-Mn metals over titania was low. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.