Catalysts useful for the direct epoxidation of olefins are disclosed. The
catalysts comprise a noble metal, lead, bismuth, and a titanium or
vanadium zeolite. The noble metal, lead, and bismuth may be supported on
the titanium or vanadium zeolite. The catalyst may also be a mixture
comprising the titanium or vanadium zeolite and a supported catalyst
comprising the noble metal, lead, bismuth, and a carrier. The invention
includes a process for producing an epoxide comprising reacting an
olefin, hydrogen and oxygen in the presence of the catalyst. The process
results in significantly reduced alkane byproduct formed by the
hydrogenation of olefin.