Technical optimization of LiFePO₄ preparation by water quenching treatment

Abstract

A technique of combination of vacuum firing and water quenching was applied to the synthesis of LiFePO₄ powder. The sample was prepared by heating the pre-decomposed precursor mixtures sealed in vacuum quartz-tube, followed by water quenching at the sintering temperature. The synthetic conditions were optimized by orthogonal experiment. The results indicate that the fast quenching treatment can avoid the overgrowth of single crystal and improve its availability ratio of active material. The sintering temperature has the greatest effect on the electrochemical performance of sample. Next is the molar ratio of Li to Fe and the sintering time, respectively. The samples prepared in the optimized technical condition has the highest reversible discharge specific capacity of 149.8 mA·h/g.

Keywords

Li-ion batteries / LiFePO₄ / cathode material / water quenching