Enhanced electrochemical performance of Li3V2(PO4)3/Ag-graphene composites as cathode materials for Li-ion batteries

In this study, we have synthesized a Li3V2(PO4) (3)/Ag-graphene (LVP/Ag-G) composite using a facile sol-gel route. The physical and electrochemical properties of the LVP/Ag-G composite have been evaluated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy and electrochemical measurements. In the potential range 3.0-4.3 V, the LVP/Ag-G electrode delivered a capacity of 135 mA h g(-1) at a rate of 0.1 C, which is above the theoretical capacity (133 mA h g(-1)). Even at a high current rate of 10 C, it still exhibited a discharge capacity of 118 and 133 mA h g(-1) in the potential ranges 3.0-4.3 and 3.0-4.8 V, respectively. Such a capacity value is significantly higher than previously reported works. The LVP/Ag-G composites exhibited an outstanding specific capacity, rate capability and cycling stability. These exceptional properties of the LVP/Ag-G composites were mainly attributed to the synergetic effect of the graphene and the silver particles.