The most appropriate parameters of the reaction of hydrogenolysis of cellulose: the temperature of 205 °C, a partial hydrogen pressure of 60 bar, reaction time 60 min, the ratio Ru/cellulose (mmol Ru in the composition of the composite per 1 g of cellulose) 0.042/1, the percentage content of ruthenium in the composite is 3% (mass.). Under these conditions, the conversion of cellulose amounted to 64.0%, the selectivity to sorbitol 43.5%. In addition, were synthesized Ru–containing catalysts. The obtained catalysts were investigated using a wide range of physical and chemical research. In addition, a scheme of the reaction of hydrogenolysis of cellulose in subcritical water using a Ru–containing catalysts. As well as were chosen the mathematical model of this process most adequately describing it. On the basis of the selected model were calculated the rate constants for this reaction.