The activity of NOx storage-reduction (NSR) catalysts is greatly reduced by Sulfur poisoning, caused by the SO2 present in the exhaust stream. Desorption of sulfur species from poisoned NSR catalysts occurs at temperatures in excess of 600 degrees C using reducing atmospheres and conventional heating. In this work, microwave (MW) heating has been used to promote desulfurization of poisoned NSR catalysts. The experiments were carried out by heating the catalyst with MW radiation and using hydrogen as the reducing gas. Desorption of H2S at 200 degrees C was observed. Desorption at even lower temperatures (150 degrees C) was observed when water was introduced to the system. In the presence of water, sulfur species desorbed as both H2S and SO2. An overall reduction of sulfur species of about 60% was obtained. The use of MW heating proves to be an efficient way to achieve regeneration of poisoned NSR catalysts. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.