Particle size-controllable microwave-assisted solvothermal synthesis of the high-voltage cathode material LiCoPO4 using water/ethylene glycol solvent blends

摘要: Abstract Particle size-tuned platelets of the high-voltage cathode material LiCoPO 4 for Li-ion batteries have been synthesized by a simple one-step microwave-assisted solvothermal process using an array water/ethylene glycol (EG) solvent mixtures. size control was achieved altering concentration EG co-solvent in mixture between 0 and 100 vol%, with amounts 0–80 vol% producing single phase, olivine-type . The particle sizes olivine materials were significantly reduced from about 1.2 μm × 1.2 μm × 500 nm (0 vol% EG) to 200 nm × 100 nm × 50 nm (80 increasing content, while specific surface areas increased 2 13 m  g -1 reduction could mainly be attributed modified viscosities blends. Owing soft template effect EG, crystals exhibited smallest dimensions along [010] direction Li diffusion pathways crystal structure, resulting enhanced lithium properties. relationship synthesis, properties electrochemical performance further elucidated, indicating that performances as-prepared depend on composition respective range. products obtained reaction media low high contents good (initial discharge capacities 87–124 mAh g −1  at 0.1 C), whereas made medium concentrations (40–60 vol% showed highest gravimetric energy densities (up 137 mAh g 658 Wh kg excellent rate capabilities, cycle life.