MW-assisted synthesis of LiFePO4 for high power applications

LiFePO4/C was prepared by solid-state reaction from Li3PO4, Fe3(PO4)2·8H2O, 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 10 s 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.