Synthesis of Core–Shell Structured LiFe0.5Mn0.3Co0.2PO4@C with Remarkable Electrochemical Performance as the Cathode of a Lithium‐Ion Battery

Abstract

AbstractA carbon‐coated ternary olivine solid solution LiFe0.5Mn0.3Co0.2PO4 composite was synthesized by using a facile rheological phase reaction with stearic acid as the carbon source. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) characterization indicated that the core–shell structured LiFe0.5Mn0.3Co0.2PO4@C nanoplatelets are about 50 to 120 nm in size and have a quite uniform and complete carbon coating layer (4 nm thick). This uniform carbon layer not only improves the electronic conductivity of the materials, but also preserves the active material from corrosion by the electrolyte. The material was used as the electrode of a lithium‐ion battery and exhibited outstanding electrochemical performance, including good capacity and stable cycling behavior. It delivers a reversible discharge capacity of 146.7 mA h g−1 at 0.1 C. In addition, a discharge capacity of 110.5 mA h g−1 at 1 C was still maintained after 100 cycles with capacity retention of 90.6 %.