Direct conversion of cellulose into polyols over Ni/W/SiO2-Al2O3

► The direct conversion of cellulose into polyols over Ni/W/SiO2-Al2O3 was examined. ► The effects of a transition metal (Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu) were examined. ► The effects of Si/Al molar ratio were examined. ► The polyol yield was closely related to the total acidity of the support.