Synthesis and electrochemical performance of spherical FeF3/ACMB composite as cathode material for lithium-ion batteries

To improve the rate capability and cyclability of FeF3 cathode for Li-ion batteries, FeF3 has been modified by forming FeF3/activated carbon microbead (ACMB) composite. The FeF3/ACMB composite is successfully achieved via a simple chemical route. The morphology and structural properties of the samples are investigated by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). SEM observations demonstrate that FeF3/ACMB composite has a distinct spherical morphology. Electrochemical tests show that the FeF3/ACMB composite cathode has higher capacity, better cycleability, and better rate capability than pristine FeF3. Electrochemical impedance spectra indicate that the FeF3/ACMB composite electrode has low electrochemical resistance compared with pristine FeF3, indicating the enhanced conductivity of the FeF3/ACMB composite.