The influence of several preparation parameters on the performance of a coprecipitated nickel alumina catalyst for use in the pyrolysis of lignocellulosic residues has been studied. The variables considered were calcination temperature (750 and 850 degrees C), reduction time (1, 2, and 3 h), and hydrogen flow in the reduction step (1740 and 3080 cm(3) (STP)/min). The catalyst performance was evaluated on a bench scale plant equipped with a continuous fluidized bed reactor using the Waterloo fast pyrolysis process (WFPP) technology. The biomass used was pine sawdust and the reaction temperature was 650 degrees C. The results show that when the higher calcination temperature is applied, more severe operating conditions on the reduction process must also be applied, but catalyst sintering can appear when very severe reduction conditions are used.