Abstract: The alumina supported copper oxide sorbents named XP and DS were prepared by impregnation method, and cycles of sulfation-regeneration reactions were carried out in a quartz tube reactor. The effects of the physical properties of the supporter on SO2 sorption capacity of the sorbents, as well as the changes of the surface microstructure of the sorbents during sulfationregeneration reactions were determined by BET, XRD and EP (Electron Probe). The results show that the γ-alumina used for sorbents should have both the large surface area and the ideal pore size. Above 90% desulfurization efficiency has been obtained by the prepared sorbents under the experimental conditions. These sorbents exhibit a good stability in the cycles of sulfation-regeneration reactions.