Thermal decomposition of metal-organic complexes of nickel, cobalt and iron has given catalysts which are very effective at about 900° for the conversion of carbon dioxide, water and other oxygencontaining sample decomposition products to carbon monoxide in the direct determination of oxygen in organic compounds when using a modified Unterzaucher type apparatus. A copper catalyst similarly prepared required a temperature of 1030° whereas a manganese complex decomposition product was ineffective.