Fiberlike Fe2O3 macroporous nanomaterials fabricated by calcinating regenerate cellulose composite fibers

Fiberlike Fe2O3 macroporous nanomaterials have been prepared by in situ synthesis of Fe2O3 nanoparticles in the regenerated cellulose fibers during the Wet spinning process, followed by the removal of cellulose matrix by calcination. The interpenetrated porous structure in the regenerated cellulose fibers at swollen state could serve as templates for the preparation of inorganic nanoparticles. The structure and properties of the Fe2O3 nanomaterials were characterized with X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, magnetometer, and electrochemical tests. The Fe2O3 nanomaterials exhibited integrated one-dimensional (1D) fiberlike morphology with macroporous structure. The results revealed that the inorganic nanomaterials displayed high purity of alpha-Fe2O3 and possessed large specific surface area, weak ferromagnetic properties, and superior electrochemical activity, having a discharge capacity of 2750 mA center dot h/g. Due to the small amounts of waste generated, this work provided a "green" pathway for the preparation of 1D inorganic nanomaterials with retention of the macropore structure, which have potential applications in the functional material fields.