Microstructure and intercalation properties of petrol cokes obtained at 1400°C

X-Ray diffraction and electron microscopy studies of several cokes prepared from petrol of different origins but heat treated to the same temperature, 1400°C, reveal significant divergences in phase homogeneity. These in turn have a direct effect on the lithium intercalation properties of these materials. The presence of crystalline phase in some coke samples leads to larger capacities and a lower cyclability of the insertion behaviour. The presence of impurities and the effect of additives on the electrochemical behaviour of the intercalation electrodes are also evaluated.