Preparation and characterization of Li3V2(PO4)3/MWCNTs cathode material for lithium-ion batteries

The Li₃V₂(PO₄)₃/multiwalled carbon nanotubes (LVP/MWCNTs) composite is successfully synthesized by a sol?Cgel route using oxalic acid as the chelating reagent. Its structure and physicochemical properties are investigated using X-ray diffraction, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, and electrochemical methods. LVP particles are well mixed with MWCNTs, and most of them are around 100?nm. The galvanostatic charge?Cdischarge tests show that LVP/MWCNTs electrode owns an initial discharge capacity of 126?mAh?g^?1 at 0.5 C with capacity retention of 94% during the 100th cycle in the voltage range of 3.0?C4.3?V. A superior rate capability is also achieved, e.g., exhibiting discharge capacities of 75 and 58?mAh?g^?1 at high C rates of 10 and 15 C, respectively.