Synthesis and electrochemical properties of gyroscope-like lithium iron phosphate/multiwalled carbon nanotubes composites by microwave-assisted sol-gel method

Gyroscope-like microparticle of lithium iron phosphate/multiwalled carbon nanotubes composites is synthesized by microwave-assisted sol-gel method with ferrous oxalate, lithium carbonate, and ammonium dihydric phosphate as raw materials. This new composites with gyroscope-like have not been reported in the literature. The crystal structure and surface morphology of the as-prepared particles are characterized by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy tests, and their electrochemical properties are investigated by cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge/discharge tests. The results demonstrated that the composites have an olivine structure and superior electrochemical performances in terms of discharge capacity, cycling stability and rate capability. These favorable electrochemical properties should be attributed to its special gyroscope-like microstructure.