Ni2P/Ti-MCM-41 catalysts were successfully prepared under a lower reduction temperature of 400 degrees C, and the effects of Ti on the catalytic properties for hydrodesulfurization (HDS) were investigated. The prepared catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, N-2-adsorption specific surface area measurements, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy of adsorbed pyridine, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscope (TEM) and CO uptake. The incorporation of Ti can enhance the Lewis acidity and the Bronsted acidity of MCM-41 supports and induce proper Lewis acidity of the Ni2P/Ti-MCM-41 catalyst. An appropriate amount of Ti can promote the formation of the Ni2P phase and induce a better Ni2P dispersion. The catalyst prepared with a Ti/Si molar ratio of 1.5% exhibited the highest HDS activity of 99.4%. The Ti electronic effect (through the direct desulfurization route) and the moderate surface Lewis acidity (through the hydrogenation route) may explain the improved HDS catalytic activity of the Ti-doped samples. (C) 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.