Design and synthesis of high-rate micron-sized, spherical LiFePO4/C composites containing clusters of nano/microspheres

A micron-sized LiFePO4/C composite with a spherical morphology was reduced carbothermally from precursor particles prepared by ball milling-assisted spray-drying. The specific capacity of the electrode at a 10 C (1700 mA/g) rate was 110 mAh/g and a high voltage plateau was achieved. The high-rate performance of the composite electrode was due to its unique spherical structure, comprising clusters of nano- or sub-micron-sized spherical particles. This morphology increases the effective conductive surface area, reduces the charge-transfer reaction resistance and improves the diffusion of lithium ions.