Novel hedgehog-like 5Â V LiCoPO4 positive electrode material for rechargeable lithium battery

► Hedgehog-like LiCoPO4 material composed of numerous nanorods is first prepared. ► Benzyl alcohol in water plays a key role in controlling the morphology and size. ► The LiCoPO4 cathode provides a high voltage around 4.8 V against lithium. ► The hierarchical microstructure favors superior electrochemical performances.