Recent advances in LiFePO4 nanoparticles with different morphology for high-performance lithium-ion batteries

LiFePO4 has emerged as the cathode material of choice for high-power lithium-ion batteries as it offers much higher energy density and excellent structural stability than other cathode materials. However, its performance factors such as energy density, power density, and cycle life depend on the nanoparticle morphology of LiFePO4. This paper provides an overview of the effects of nanoparticle morphology on the electrochemical performances of LiFePO4. The crystal structure and structural model of LiFePO4 are depicted in detail. The synthetic methods, formation principles, characteristics and morphology-performance relationships of LiFePO4 nanoparticles, including LiFePO4/C nanocomposite particles, LiFePO4 nanorods and LiFePO4 nanowires are investigated. This is a typical review but it does not cover all nanostructured LiFePO4 cathodes reported in the literature. Our major goal is to highlight some new progress in using the LiFePO4 nanoparticles as cathodes to develop lithium batteries with high energy density, high rate capability, and excellent cycling stability.