A series of Cu–zirconia catalysts containing additives (Mn, La) were prepared by coprecipitation and tested for dehydrogenation oxidation from diethanolamine to iminodiacetic acid. The structure and surface properties of the catalysts were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), temperature programmed reduction (TPR), N2O titration and N2 adsorption-desorption techniques. The results showed that the addition of Mn could increase the surface area of catalyst from 105 m2?g-1 to 143 m2?g-1and the dispersion degrees of copper species from 36.5% to 53.6%; The addition of La could inhibit Cu particle from growing up and suppress the crystallization of the catalysts; The catalytic performances of the catalysts were greately improved by the addition of Mn and La together. A synergistic effect in La and Mn co-modified Cu/ZrO2 catalyst was suggested.