In this work, we synthesize inexpensive Vulcan XC-72 carbon supported Fe2O3 nanoparticles (Fe2O3/XC)
as an oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalyst for non-aqueous lithium-oxygen batteries. It is
demonstrated that the battery with the Fe2O3/XC cathode exhibits a charge voltage plateau of 4.01V at a
current density of 200 mAg1
, which is 0.43V lower than that with the pure XC carbon cathode. The
battery also presents an outstanding rate capability, giving a charge voltage plateau of 3.99, 4.01 and
4.15V at the current density of 100, 200 and 400 mA g1
, respectively. Furthermore, the battery can be
operated for 50 cycles at a fixed capacity of 500 mA h g1 without obvious degradation, showing its
superior cycling stability. The results suggest that the iron oxide is a cost-effective catalyst for nonaqueous
lithium-oxygen batteries.