Facile preparation of porous LiFePO4/C composite granules by mechanical process

Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) which is a promising cathode material for lithium-ion batteries requires particle size reduction, carbon coating and granulation to improve its electrochemical performances and increase the energy densities. In addition, their composite granules desire a porous structure in order to assist the penetration of liquid electrolyte. Here, we report a facile preparation of porous LiFePO4/C composite granules by a mechanical method using an attrition-type mill. By the mechanical treatment of starting materials, LiFePO4/C composite granules with an average pore size of 20-30 nm were synthesized in one-step process without atmosphere control and external heating. This simple mechanical technique does not require additional pore forming agents. According to the cell tests, a favorable cycle performance was exhibited.