Carbon nanotube-loaded electrospun LiFePO4/carbon composite nanofibers as stable and binder-free cathodes for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.

LiFePO(4)/CNT/C composite nanofibers were synthesized by using a combination of electrospinning and sol-gel techniques. Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) was used as the electrospinning media and carbon source. Functionalized CNTs were used to increase the conductivity of the composite. LiFePO(4) precursor materials, PAN and functionalized CNTs were dissolved or dispersed in N,N-dimethylformamide separately and they were mixed before electrospinning. LiFePO(4) precursor/CNT/PAN composite nanofibers were then heat-treated to obtain LiFePO(4)/CNT/C composite nanofibers. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy measurements were done to demonstrate the functionalization of CNTs. The structure of LiFePO(4)/CNT/C composite nanofibers was determined by X-ray diffraction analysis. The surface morphology and microstructure of LiFePO(4)/CNT/C composite nanofibers were characterized using scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Electrochemical performance of LiFePO(4)/CNT/C composite nanofibers was evaluated in coin-type cells. Functionalized CNTs were found to be well-dispersed in the carbonaceous matrix and increased the electrochemical performance of the composite nanofibers. As a result, cells using LiFePO(4)/CNT/C composite nanofibers have good performance, in terms of large capacity, extended cycle life, and good rate capability.