The reactivity of a multi-layered monolith catalyst containing Pt and Sn over LaMnO3/La-gamma-Al2O3/cordierite. previously studied in a lab-scale plant for producing ethylene via Short Contact Time - Catalytic Partial Oxidation of ethane, has been further and extensively investigated in a bench-scale plant with higher production capacity. Ethylene yields exceeding 55 wt.% have been achieved and the reactivity performances have been maintained for more than 500 h.o.s. The experiments, while confirming the potential of the technology, have pointed out some weakness in catalyst stability and reactor design. The bench-scale experimental study has also addressed the reactivity features of n-butane indicating that ethylene + propylene yields approach 54 wt.% in a wide range of experimental conditions. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.