A study on LiFePO4 and its doped derivatives as cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries

LiFePO4, doped LiMxFe1−xPO4, and Li1−xMxFePO4 compounds have been prepared via a sol–gel synthesis method. The physical properties of the as-prepared lithium iron phosphates were characterised by X-ray diffraction, X-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy (XANES), and magnetic susceptibility. The electrochemical properties lithium iron phosphates were tested by a variety of electrochemical techniques. Lithium iron phosphate electrodes demonstrated a stable discharge capacity of 160–165 mAh g−1, almost approaching the theoretical capacity. The good electronic conductivity and nanocrystalline could contribute to the unique performance of lithium iron phosphate electrodes. Lithium iron phosphates have a significant potential to be used as a new cathode materials in Li-ion batteries.