Effects of carbon sources and carbon contents on the electrochemical properties of LiFePO₄/C cathode material

摘要

LiFePO₄/C composites are prepared by using two types of carbon source: one using polymer (PAALi) and the other using sucrose. The physical characteristics of LiFePO₄/C composites are investigated by X-ray diffraction), scanning electron microscopy, BET, laser particle analyzer, and Raman spectroscopy. Their electrochemical properties are characterized by cyclic voltammograms, constant current charge–discharge, and electrochemical impedance spectra. These analyses indicate that the carbon source and carbon content have a great effect on the physical and electrochemical performances of LiFePO₄/C composites. An ideal carbon source and appropriate carbon content can effectively increase the lithium-ion diffusion coefficient and exchange current density, decrease the charge transfer resistance (R _ct), and enhance the electrochemical performances of LiFePO₄/C composite. The results show that PAALi is a better carbon source for the synthesis of LiFePO₄/C composites. When the carbon content is 4.11 wt.% (the molar ratio of PAALi/Li₂C₂O₄ was 2:1), as-prepared LiFePO₄/C composite shows the best combination between electrochemical performances and tap density.