A novel alumina-activated carbon composite supported NiMo catalyst for hydrodesulfurization of dibenzothiophene

► The AAC has mesoporous structure and enhanced mechanical strength. ► There are well dispersed and more reducible Mo and Ni species on the AAC surface. ► NiMo/AAC showed better HDS activity and stability than NiMo/Al2O3 and NiMo/AC.