Preparation of LiFePO4/C in a reductive atmosphere generated by windward aerobic decomposition of glucose

We report the preparation of LiFePO4/C electrode materials by thermal treating the hydrothermal LiFePO4/C precursors in a reductive atmosphere from windward aerobic decomposition of glucose. XRD and ESEM characterization indicate that the procedure produces well carbon coated single-phase orthorhombic LiFePO4 with small and evenly distributed particle-sizes. Comparing with the typical Ar/H2 reductive atmosphere, samples from this procedure host larger initial discharge capacity (147.9 vs. 129.8 mAh g−1) and excellent reversibility with a capacity reservation of 96.9% after 50 cycles at 0.1 C.

Research highlights
► We prepare LiFePO4/C cathode materials by thermal treating LiFePO4/C hydrothermal precursors in a reductive atmosphere from windward aerobic decomposition of glucose.
► The obtained LiFePO4/C product hosts appropriate and evenly distributed particle sizes and exhibits excellent electrochemical performance and electrode reversibility.
► The technique is relatively simple, cheap, and safe and may be potentially applicable for industry.