Research Progress in Improving the Rate Performance of LiFePO4 Cathode Materials

Abstract Olivine lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO 4 ) 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 LiFePO 4 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 LiFePO 4 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.