Different platinum catalysts supported on activated carbon have been investigated for decalin dehydrogenation under several reaction conditions. Organic hydride as hydrogen storage media is an efficient source for fuel cells when the catalytic dehydrogenation reaction occurs rapidly under mild conditions. Among hydrides, the choice of decalin in this study is owed to the simplicity of analyses, as well as comparison with works reported in literature. Platinum load, decalin/catalyst ratio and temperature are the most important parameters known to influence decalin conversion to hydrogen. Optimal Pt loading and decalin/catalyst ratio were observed at 4 wt% PVC and 2.7 ml/g, respectively, exhibiting high decalin conversion (approximately 60%) and a suitable reaction rate. (c) 2007 International Association for Hydrogen Energy. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.