Abstract: A catalytic process for the generation of hydrogen by the partial oxidation of hydrocarbons, especially alkanes such as methane or hexane. The preferred catalyst system comprises from 0.01 to 5 wt % platinum and from 1 to 15 wt % chromium oxide supported on a refractory solid such as silica. Also a reactor for effecting the process in which the reactants are injected into or among the catalyst system and a technique for starting the process at ambient temperature by introducing an initiating compound such as methanol into the catalyst system.