Different VO x /TiO 2 catalyst have been catalytically tested and studied by in situ-spectroscopic methods (FT-IR, UV/vis, EPR) in the oxyhydrative scission (OHS) of 1-butene and n-butane to acetic acid (AcOH). While 1-butene OHS follows the sequence butane → butoxide → ketone → AcOH/acetate with a multitude of side products also formed, n-butane OHS leads to AcOH, CO x and H 2 O only. Water vapour in the feed improves AcOH selectivity by blocking adsorption sites for acetate. The admixture of Sb 2 O 3 was found to improve AcOH selectivity which is due to deeper V reduction under steady state conditions and lowering of surface acidity. VO x /TiO 2 catalysts with sulfate-containing anatase are the most effective ones. Covalently bonded sulfate at the catalyst surface causes specific bonding of VO x , stabilizes active V species and ensures their high dispersity.