bi-functional ni/hzsm-5 with different ni loadings were prepared and characterized by bet, xrd, nh3-tpd, h-2-tpr, ftir and tg techniques. effects of metal and acid active sites on the catalyst structure and catalytic performance of aqueous phase reforming of xylitol for liquid alkanes production were studied. the results showed that c-5 similar to c-6 alkanes could be effectively obtained by dehydration and successive hydrogenation of xylitol on the optimized coupling of the metal and acid sites. 2% ni/hzsm-5 catalyst exhibited the maximal xylitol conversion of 94% and liquid alkanes yield of 90%. moreover, the surface area and pore volume of thus catalyst were found to be in favor for the reaction. appropriate amount of metal active sites and acid were also observed in the 2% ni/hzsm-5 catalyst, which could promote the dehydrogenation and successive hydrogenation of xylitol into alkanes. in addition, the catalyst deactivated heavily after six recycle runs, which might be attributed to the partial dealumination of zeolite framework and coke formation on the surface of the catalyst.