Catalytic hydrothermal conversion of cellulose over SnO2 and ZnO nanoparticle catalysts

► Both nano ZnO and nano SnO2 was effective catalyst for the water-gas shift (WGS) reaction. ► Effect of nano ZnO on WGS was more remarkable at 300 °C. Nano SnO2 is effective catalyst on WGS at 400 °C and 500 °C. ► Cellulose conversion to intermediates and further degradation to gases is rapidly enhanced by increasing temperature.