A series of high-temperature close coupled catalysts Pd/Ce-Zr-M/Al2O3 ( M = Y, Ca or Ba) were prepared by ultrasonic-assisted successive impregnation. The catalysts were subjected to a series of characterization measurements. The results of activity evaluation show that Y is the best promoter for propane total oxidation, especially at the calcination temperature of 1100 degrees C. It is interesting that although the BET specific surface areas and the dispersion of Pd species decrease, the Y-promoted catalyst calcined at 1100 degrees C shows higher catalytic activity than the corresponding one calcined at 900 degrees C and better sulfur-resisting performance. The results of TEM, TPHD and CO chemisorption indicate that Y can remarkably increase the dispersion of Pd species. However, the dispersion is hard to be connected with the activity increase as the calcination temperature is elevated from 900 to 1100 degrees C. The change of active phases and the interaction between Pd species and the supports may account for the activity enhancement. Combined with XRD, H2-TPR and O-2-TPD results, it is deduced that the coexistence of metallic Pd and PdO species in the catalysts calcined at 1100 degrees C may be also favorable to C3H8 oxidation. In a word, Pd/Ce-Zr-Y/Al2O3 is indeed a promising high-temperature close coupled catalyst applicable to high temperature. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.