One-step mechanical synthesis of the nanocomposite granule of LiMnPO4 nanoparticles and carbon

The nanocomposite granule of LiMnPO4 nanoparticles and carbon were directly and rapidly created from the starting powder materials by one-step mechanical method without extra heat assistance. The primary particle size and the granule particle size obtained by this method were less than 20 nm and around 20 μm, respectively. The granules could be compacted easily to be the electrode for high packing density. The cathode electrode made by the granules also consisted of the network structure of LiMnPO4 and that of carbon, thus reduced the lithium ion diffusion path and achieved high electron conductivity. Although, the specific capacity was still 60% of the theoretical capacity, it is expected to be innovative energy-saving process for manufacturing lithium ion batteries by better control of the granule structure in future.

STEM image of LiMnPO4 primary particles in single nanocomposite granule using the mechano-chemical method.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► LiMnPO4 was synthesized by the one-step mechanical method.
► LiMnPO4 was crystallized for less than 30 min by our method.
► The primary and secondary particle size was less than 20 nm and 20 μm, respectively.
► The sample exhibited 100 mA h/g which was 60% of the theoretical capacity.