Spherical Li1.95Na0.05FeSiO4/C composite as nanoporous cathode material exhibiting high rate capability

Abstract Nanoporous spherical Li 1.95 Na 0.05 FeSiO 4 /C and Li 2 FeSiO 4 /C composites have been synthesized through a spray drying-assisted method. The effect of Na doping on the physicochemical properties of Li 2 FeSiO 4 is extensively investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscope, AC impedance spectroscopy, four-point measurement and galvanostatic charge-discharge testing. It is found that Li 1.95 Na 0.05 FeSiO 4 /C composite exhibits superior rate capability and cycling stability. Remarkably, even rate increases to 10C, a high discharge capacity of 110 mAh g −1 is obtained, and 97.8% of its initial value is retained after 100 cycles at 2C. The excellent electrochemical properties were mainly attributed to enhancement of electronic conductivity and reduction of charge transfer resistance.