Carbon Nanotube-Loaded Electrospun LiFePO4/Carbon Composite Nanofibers As Stable and Binder-Free Cathodes for Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Batteries

摘要

LiFePO4/CNT/C composite nanofibers were synthesized by using a combination of electrospinning and sol—gel techniques. Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) was used as the electrospinning media and carbon source. Functionalized CNTs were used to increase the conductivity of the composite- LiFePO4 precursor materials, PAN and functionalized CNTs were dissolved or dispersed in N,N— dimethylformamide separately and they were mixed before electrospinning. LiFePO4 precursor/CNT/PAN composite nanofibers were then heat-treated to obtain LiFePO4/CNT/C composite nanofibers. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy measurements were done to demonstrate the functionalization of CNTs. The structure of LiFePO4/CNT/C composite nanofibers was determined by X-ray diffraction analysis. The surface morphology and microstructure of LiFePO4/CNT/C composite nanofibers were characterized using scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Electrochemical performance of LiFePO4/CNT/C composite nanofibers was evaluated in coin-type cells. Functionalized CNTs were found to be well-dispersed in the carbonaceous matrix and increased the electrochemical performance of the composite nanofibers. As a result, cells using LiFePO4/CNT/C composite nanofibers have good performance, in terms of large capacity, extended cycle life, and good rate capability.