MWNT-supported bifunctional catalyst of β-FeOOH nanospindles for enhanced rechargeable Li–O2 batteries

A novel composite of β-FeOOH nanospindles coated on multi-walled carbon nanotubes (β-FeOOH/MWNTs) has been synthesized via a wet chemical method and used as electrocatalysts for the cathodes of Li–O 2 batteries (LOBs). The β-FeOOH/MWNT cathodes can afford a high reversible capacity of 6000 mA h g −1 tested at 200 mA g −1 and cycle stability for 19 cycles with a reversible capacity of 600 mA h g −1 and good rate capability. The LOB performance should be benefited from the fast kinetics of electron transport through the MWNT support and the electro-catalytic activity provided by the β-FeOOH nanospindles. The preliminary result manifests that the composites of β-FeOOH/MWNTs are promising cathode electrocatalysts for LOBs.