The synthesis and modification of LiFePO4 lithium-ion battery cathodes: a mini review
Abstract
As a landmark technology, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have a significant position in human life, whose cathodes are important components and play a pivotal role in the overall battery performance. Among the mainstream cathode materials, LiFePO4 (LFP) is deemed to be a suitable candidate as the power source for electric vehicles (EVs) owing to its abundant resource, low cost, and high safety, whose subpar electronic/ion conductivity remains a fatal demerit. To cope with these issues, relentless endeavours have been dedicated to synthetic route optimisation and modification of bulk LFP. In this regard, this paper evaluates the synthetic routes (solid-state, sol–gel, hydro/solvothermal, and co-precipitation methods) and modification methodologies (surface modification, morphological engineering, and cation doping) of LFP materials beginning with their fundamental mechanism in lithium storage. To better direct the design and development of LFP-based electrodes, the advantages and challenges of various synthetic/modification methods are proposed by case analysis. Finally, perspectives on the future development of LFP materials and LFP-based LIBs are envisaged.
- This article is part of the themed collection: 2024 Highlight article collection