Electrochemical Deposition and Modification of LiFePO[sub 4] for the Preparation of Cathode with Enhanced Battery Performance

Abstract

LiFePO4LiFePO4 was deposited onto substrate surface during Au electrodeposition. Formation of this LiFePO4/AuLiFePO4/Au mixed film leads to better electrochemical performance of the LiFePO4,LiFePO4, because Au modifies its low conductivity. This simple electrochemical method also provides an opportunity for the incorporation of modifying materials such as metal oxides during a mixed-metal codeposition process. Interestingly, it is possible to use a similar method to coat the electroactive material surface with modifier. After the deposition of the electroactive film, a thin layer of metal oxide was additionally coated on the film surface. The results obtained from the experimental investigations show that the LiFePO4LiFePO4 cathode prepared by the simple electrochemical method proposed has an excellent battery performance, including higher specific capacity, less capacity fading, and faster diffusion process. The LiFePO4LiFePO4 cathode prepared shows only a 10% capacity fading after 1000 cycles at 80°C, while approaching its theoretical capacity at this condition. © 2004 The Electrochemical Society. All rights reserved.