Fast synthesis of core-shell LiCoPO4/C nanocomposite via microwave heating and its electrochemical Li intercalation performances

A very simple and rapid method for synthesizing LiCoPO4/C nanocomposite has been developed via microwave heating. X-ray diffraction confirmed that nanosized olivine LiCoPO4 was successfully synthesized. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy verified that LiCoPO4 displays small powders with an average size of ∼150 nm and is also coated with uniform amorphous carbon film of ∼10 nm in thickness. Compared with pure LiCoPO4, LiCoPO4/C composite presented enhanced electrochemical Li-ion intercalation performances. Cyclic voltammetric and electrical tests disclosed that the Li-ion diffusion, the reversibility of lithium extraction/insertion and electrical conductivity were significantly improved in LiCoPO4/C composite.