Investigation on the catalytic performance of magnetic copper ferrite nanoparticles in the catalytic hydroconversion of Hanglaiwan long flame coal

•CuFe2O4 is a multifunctional composite material with excellent magnetic recovery characteristic and hydroconversion activity.•The synergic transfer of the active species produced by activating of H2 over CuFe2O4 can effectively cleave the > C-O- bridged bonds.•More valuable soluble portion can be obtained in the catalytic hydroconversion of Hanglaiwan long flame coal.•After introducing CuFe2O4, the CH– and nitrogen-containing species increase, while the O2-O4 class species decrease significantly.