ZnO incorporated LiFePO4 for high rate electrochemical performance in lithium ion rechargeable batteries

► LiFePO4/ZnO/C composite was compared with bare LiFePO4 and LiFePO4/C. ► ZnO used as catalyst for transformation of C led high amounts of graphitic carbon. ► ZnO and graphitic carbon co-coating reduces charge transfer resistance. ► Increase in electronic conductivity led to enhanced electrochemical properties.