Microstructure and intercalation properties of petrol cokes obtained at 1400 degrees C

X-Ray diffraction and electron microscopy studies of several cokes prepared from petrol of different origins but heat treated to the same temperature, 1400 degrees C, reveal significant divergences in phase homogeneity. These in turn have a direct effect on the lithium intercalation properties of these materials. The presence of crystalline phase in some coke samples leads to larger capacities and a lower cyclability of the insertion behaviour. The presence of impurities and the effect of additives on the electrochemical behaviour of the intercalation electrodes an also evaluated.