SBA-15 supported cobalt oxide composites with low Co-content (1 wt%) were prepared via the "two-solvent" method and impregnation. The impact of the low Co-content and preparation method on the morphology and dispersion of the resultant Co3O4 particles was investigated using a variety of characterization techniques (XRD, N-2 adsorption-desorption, ICP-MS, DR UV-vis, FTIR, TEM, HRTEM and STEM). Here the Co3O4 patches were smaller and better dispersed throughout the support compared to previously reported composites with higher Co-content. As a result, they exhibited better catalytic performance in the liquid phase oxidation of cyclohexanol, benzylalcohol, 1-phenylethanol and norbornene, with tert-butylhydroperoxide (TBHP). The composite prepared by the two-solvent method demonstrated better catalytic activity compared to its analogues with the same Co-content prepared by the impregnation and adsorption methods. This is attributed to less pore blockage and better availability of Co3O4 in this composite. (c) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.