TaC-modified LiFePO4/C composite as cathode material for high-performance lithium-ion batteries

The further development of electrode materials with both high capacity and rate capability is necessary for meeting the continuing requirement for increasing high-energy density and long-cycle life of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Herein, a cathode material of LIBs, LiFePO4/C modified with high electrical conductivity compound tantalum carbide (TaC) is successfully synthesized by a hydrothermal method. The co-coating of nano-sized TaC and amorphous carbon layer on the surface of LiFePO4 particles can facilitate good electrons and Li ions transfer, leading to faster electrochemical kinetics. As the cathode material for LIBs, this composite presents both excellent electrochemical performances with high reversible capacity (159.0 mAh g(-1), 0.1C) and improved rate capacity. The methodology developed in this paper demonstrates a new prospect for the application of transition metal carbides (TMCs) in the modification of battery electrode materials.