MW-assisted synthesis of LiFePO4 for high power applications

LiFePO4/C Was prepared by solid-state reaction from Li3PO4, Fe-3(PO4)(2)center dot 8H(2)O, carbon and glucose in a few minutes in a scientific MW (microwave) oven with temperature and power control. The material was characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and by TGA analysis to evaluate carbon content. The electrochemical characterization as positive electrode in EC (ethylene carbonate)-DMC (dimethylcarbonate) 1 M LiPF6 was performed by galvanostatic charge-discharge cycles at C/10 to evaluate specific capacity and by sequences of 10s discharge-charge pulses, at different high C-rates (5-45C) to evaluate pulse-specific power in simulate operative conditions for full-HEV application. The maximum pulse-specific power and, particularly, pulse efficiency values are quite high and make MW synthesis a very promising route for mass production of LiFePO4/C for full-HEV batteries at low energy costs. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.