This work studied the performance of Ni-based catalysts derived from LaNiO3 and CeSiO2 supported LaNiO3 perovskite-type oxides for the steam reforming of ethanol. In situ XRD and TPR revealed the presence of different Ni species on both calcined samples: LaNiO3, La2NiO4 and NiO phases. Both catalysts deactivated during the reaction. Ni sintering was ruled out based on the in situ XRD experiments under reaction conditions. For LaNiO3, metallic Ni particles were partially oxidized by the water present in the feed at the beginning of the reaction. Then, NiO particles formed were reduced again by the syngas produced during the reaction. TG analysis showed significant carbon formation on LaNiO3 catalyst. However, carbon formation was significantly decreased over LaNiO3/CeSiO2 catalyst, which was due to the important role of the support on the mechanism of carbon removal for steam reforming of ethanol. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.