Aluminum-doping effects on three-dimensional Li3V2(PO4)3@C/CNTs microspheres for electrochemical energy storage

A series of three-dimensional Al3+-doped Li3V2(PO4)3@C/CNTs microspheres have been fabricated for the first time using a facile spray drying route followed through a solid-state reaction process. The crystalline structure, morphology, microstructure and lithium storage performance for the fabricated composites have been researched using Raman spectrum, XRD, XPS, SEM, TEM, EDS and various electrochemical tests. Benefiting from the Al3+ doping and formed three-dimensional networks by the carbon film and CNTs, the Li + diffusion coefficient and electrical conductivity of Li3V2(PO4)3 are significantly enhanced. All the Al3+-doped composites possess superior lithium storage properties including high capacity and good cyclic-life. Thus, Al3+ doping is a prospective strategy to promote the rate properties of Li3V2(PO4)3 for lithium energy storage.