Effect of different carbon precursors on properties of LiFePO4/C

Abstract

The anoxic decomposition and influence of carbon precursors on the properties of LiFePO4/C prepared by using Fe2O3 were investigated. X-ray powder diffractometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and carbon content and charge–discharge tests were applied to the characterization of the as-synthesized cathodes. Partial carbon is lost in the anaerobic decomposition of organic precursors and a high hydrogen content leads to a high residual carbon rate. Pyromellitic anhydride and citric acid participate in reactions before and in ball-milling. All the chosen carbon precursors are capable of producing LiFePO4 with high degree of crystallinity and purity. The carbon derived from α-D-glucose, pyromellitic anhydride, soluble starch, citric acid and polyacrylamide has a loose and porous texture in LiFePO4/C which forms conduction on and between LiFePO4 particles. LiFePO4/C prepared by using α-D-glucose, pyromellitic anhydride, citric acid and sucrose exhibits appreciable electrochemical performance. Graphite alone is able to enhance the electrochemical performance of LiFePO4 to a limited extent but incapable of preparing practical cathode.