The oxidative dehydrogenation of ethane over sulfated-zirconia-supported lithium chloride catalysts has been systematically investigated. The optimal experimental parameters were obtained. It is found that sulfation of zirconia increases the catalytic activity. 2-3.5 wt% lithium chloride on sulfated zirconia catalysts exhibit high catalytic activity for oxidative dehydrogenation of ethane, with particularly high activity for ethene production. 70% selectivity to ethene at 98% ethane conversion, giving 68% ethene yield, is achieved over 3.5 wt% LiCl/SZ at 650(degrees)C.