Unique synthesis of novel octahedral micro/nano-hierarchical LiFePO4 cages as an enhanced cathode material for lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

Novel monodisperse LiFePO₄ cages with an octahedral micro/nano-hierarchical structure have been synthesized for the first time through a simple and controllable solvothermal approach followed by high-temperature calcination. Structural characterization is carried out using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area measurements, Raman spectroscopy and X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy. As detected, our unique octahedral micro/nano-LiFePO₄ cages possess numerous outstanding properties, such as single-crystalline, hierarchical structure and large specific surface areas, which significantly lead to high rate capability, excellent cycling stability and superior tap density. This special micro/nano-hierarchical structure can be extended to other lithium metal oxide composites, which would promote the development of lithium-ion batteries.