Abstract: A new method of investigating catalytic combustion characteristics of pulverized coal was introduced using synthetical thermal analyzer, that is, the referenced DTA. Ignition temperatures of anthracite with K₂CO₃, Fe₂O₃, CaCO₃ and CeO₂ addition were 319℃, 410℃, 400℃ and 405℃ respectively determined by the referenced DTA. The ignition temperatures decreased by catalysts were observed directly from the reference DTA curves. In addition, variations of heat release during pulverized coal combustion were calculated by the referenced DTA curves. The heat releases of anthracite combustion increased by 340.2J/g, 352.8J/g, 348.6J/g and 264.6J/g, respectively, with K₂CO₃、Fe₂O₃、CaCO₃ and CeO₂ addition. The above results are accordance with those from conventional DTA experiment. However, the referenced DTA is more effective and direct to show catalytic combustion characteristics of pulverized coal.