Research Progress in Improving the Rate Performance of LiFePO4 Cathode Materials

Abstract

Abstract Olivine lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) is considered as a promising cathode material for high power-density lithium ion battery due to its high capacity, long cycle life, environmental friendly, low cost, and safety consideration. The theoretical capacity of LiFePO4 based on one electron reaction is 170 mAh g−1 at the stable voltage plateau of 3.5 V vs. Li/Li+. However, the instinct drawbacks of olivine structure induce a poor rate performance, resulting from the low lithium ion diffusion rate and low electronic conductivity. In this review, we summarize the methods for enhancing the rate performance of LiFePO4 cathode materials, including carbon coating, elements doping, preparation of nanosized materials, porous materials and composites, etc. Meanwhile, the advantages and disadvantages of above methods are also discussed.