Tactical control of Ni-loading over W-supported Beta zeolite catalyst for selective ring opening of 1-methylnaphthalene

•Effect of Ni and/or W metals over Beta zeolite was investigated in correlation with their SRO catalytic activities.•W metal species was more active than Ni metal species for the SRO reaction of 1-methylnaphthalene to mono-aromatics.•Ni-loading control over W-supported Beta zeolite catalyst can be a facile approach to enhance the SRO reaction.•Balance of metallic and acidic functions was modified by Ni content, showing a close relationship with the SRO reaction.