This application is an example of common catalyst characterization experiment using a temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) technique that can yield direct information on the reducibility of a catalyst and catalyst precursors. As such, it is an excellent technique for characterizing a variety of catalysts. The technique consists of exposing the sample to a flowing mixture of a reducing agent, such as hydrogen, in an inert gas while linearly ramping the temperature. The rate of consumption of the reducing agent is monitored and related to the rate of reduction of the sample.