Abstract
LiMBO3 (M = Fe, Co, Mn) has been identified as an interesting new cathode material for Li-ion batteries. It was shown to be difficult to synthesize the material as a pure phase and in a highly electrochemically active form. Here we report several methods for the successful preparation of LiFeBO3, including traditional ceramic and self-combustion reactions. By decreasing the particle size and introducing in situ carbon coating, conventionally ceramic-synthesized LiFeBO3/C yields a first discharge of 210 mA h g(-1) within the 1.5-4.5 V voltage window at a C/20 rate, 55 degrees C. Using high-resolution synchrotron X-ray diffraction, neutron powder diffraction and single crystal X-ray diffraction in combination with Li-6 NMR and Fe-57 Mossbauer spectroscopies, we present a ``1Fe 2Li'' complex cation distribution model for LiFeBO3 powder.