Eco-Efficient Synthesis of LiFePO4 with Different Morphologies for Li-Ion Batteries

LiFePO4 is presently the most studied electrode material for battery applications. It can be prepared via solution, although it requires well-controlled pH conditions to master the iron valence state in the newly created material. Here we report its synthesis via the use of "latent bases" capable of releasing a nitrogen base upon heating. This way of controlling the reaction pH enables, in the absence of excess Li, the preparation of Fe+3-free LiFePO4 powders having various morphologies and showing good electrochemical performance. This approach is shown to offer great opportunities for the low-temperature synthesis of various electrode materials.