Modified FeOOH catalysts were prepared by a co-precipitation method using Si

Al

La

Ca

Mg

Zr

Cu

Ni and Co as promoters

respectively. The effects on microstructures

crystalline phase and morphology of the catalysts were characterized by BET

XRD and SEM. Their catalytic performances for the direct liquefaction of Shendong coal were evaluated in a 0.5 L stirring autoclave. The results showed that these promoters (Si

Al

Ca

Zr

Ni and Co) could improve the dispersion of the catalysts and surface area

and then improve the catalytic performances for direct coal liquefaction. Increasing by 0.7%—2.7% oil yield over the unmodified the catalyst could be obtained. However

Mg showed no effect on catalytic ability

while Cu and La reduced the Oil yield. The result indicated that Si

Al

Ca and Zr as the structure promoters could significantly improve the texture properties of catalysts

resulting in an increase of γ-FeOOH crystalline phase with small size which was beneficial to form active phase (Fe1-xS). Co and Ni as the electronic promoters could activate H2 preferentially to promote liquefaction

leading to the rising in oil yield.