Impact of carbon structure and morphology on the electrochemical performance of LiFePO4/C composites

The electrochemical performance of LiFePO₄/C composites in lithium cells is closely correlated to pressed pellet conductivities measured by AC impedance methods. These composite conductivities are a strong function not only of the amount of carbon but of its structure and distribution. Ideally, the amount of carbon in composites should be minimal (less than about 2 wt%) so as not to decrease the energy density unduly. This is particularly important for plug-in hybrid electric vehicle applications (PHEVs) where both high power and moderate energy density are required. Optimization of the carbon structure, particularly the sp²/sp³ and disordered/graphene (D/G) ratios, improves the electronic conductivity while minimizing the carbon amount. Manipulation of the carbon structure can be achieved via the use of synthetic additives including iron-containing graphitization catalysts. Additionally, combustion synthesis techniques allow co-synthesis of LiFePO₄ and carbon fibers or nanotubes, which can act as “nanowires” for the conduction of current during cell operation.