Combustion synthesized nanocrystalline Li3V2(PO4)3/C cathode for lithium-ion batteries

Nanocrystalline Li3V2(PO4)3/C composite synthesized using a novel corn assisted combustion method at 850 °C exhibits superior physical and electrochemical properties than the one synthesized at 800 °C. Despite the charge disproportionation of V4+ and a possible solid solution behavior of Li3V2(PO4)3 cathode upon insertion and extraction of Li+ ions, the structural stability of the same is appreciable, even with the extraction of third lithium at 4.6 V. An appreciable specific capacity of 174 mAh g−1 and better capacity retention upon high rate applications have been exhibited by Li3V2(PO4)3/C cathode, thus demonstrating the suitability of the same for lithium-ion battery applications.

Nanocrystalline Li3V2(PO4)3/C compound has been synthesized using a novel corn assisted combustion (CAC) method, wherein the composite prepared at 850 °C is found to exhibit superior physical and electrochemical properties than the one synthesized at 800 °C (Fig. 1). Despite the charge disproportionation of V4+ and a possible solid solution behavior of Li3V2(PO4)3 cathode upon insertion and de-insertion of Li+ ions, the structural stability of the same is appreciable, even with the extraction of third lithium at 4.6 V (Fig. 2). An appreciable specific capacity of 174 mAh g−1 with an excellent columbic efficiency (99%) and better capacity retention upon high rate applications have been exhibited by Li3V2(PO4)3/C cathode, thus demonstrating the feasibility of CAC method in preparing the title compound to best suit with the needs of lithium battery applications.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Novel corn assisted combustion method has been used to synthesize Li3V2(PO4)3/C.
► Corn is a cheap and eco benign combustible fuel to facilitate CAC synthesis.
► Li3V2(PO4)3/C exhibits an appreciable specific capacity of 174 mAh g−1 (C/10 rate).
► Currently observed columbic efficiency of 99% is better than the reported behavior.
► Suitability of Li3V2(PO4)3/C cathode up to 10C rate is demonstrated.