Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) Powder for Li-ion Battery Cathode Application

Contact us for tailored quotes on larger quantities & experience exceptional solutions from our experts. 

Product Overview of Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4)

Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4 or LFP) Powder is a cathode active material designed for research and development of lithium-ion battery systems. With a median particle size (D50) of 1.508 µm, a specific surface area of 12.21 m²/g, and a carbon content of 1.29%, this material is suitable for electrode formulation and electrochemical performance evaluation.

LiFePO4 is widely recognized for its olivine crystal structure, thermal stability, long cycle life potential, and electrochemical characteristics. These properties make it a widely studied cathode chemistry for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, particularly in applications where safety, durability, and cycle performance are important.

The powder exhibits a reported first discharge capacity of 155.5 mAh/g and a first discharge efficiency of 97.5% under the supplier's test conditions. Its particle size distribution and surface characteristics make it a candidate for research involving cathode material optimization, electrode processing, and advanced energy storage technologies. Actual battery performance depends on electrode formulation, cell configuration, and testing conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) Powder for Li-ion Battery Cathode Applications

1. What is lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) powder used for in lithium-ion batteries?

Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4 or LFP) is a cathode active material used in lithium-ion battery technology. Its olivine crystal structure supports reversible lithium-ion insertion and extraction during charging and discharging. LFP is valued for its thermal stability, long cycle-life potential, and use of iron and phosphorus rather than nickel or cobalt. This powder is intended for cathode formulation and electrochemical research. Explore Nanografi's Cathode Materials collection for related battery materials.

2. What are the particle size and physical properties of this LiFePO4 cathode powder?

Nanografi reports a particle size distribution of D10 = 0.549 µm, D50 = 1.508 µm, and D90 = 6.010 µm for this LiFePO4 powder. These values indicate that approximately 10%, 50%, and 90% of the measured particle population falls below the respective diameters, according to the measurement method used. The reported tap density is 1.132 g/cm3, and the specific surface area is 12.21 m2/g. These characteristics can influence electrode packing, slurry processing, and electrochemical behavior.

3. What does the reported first discharge capacity of 155.5 mAh/g mean?

The product's reported first capacity of 155.5 mAh/g describes its specific discharge capacity under the supplier's test conditions. The theoretical specific capacity of LiFePO4 is approximately 170 mAh/g, making the reported value relevant for preliminary material evaluation. However, actual capacity depends on voltage limits, current rate, electrode composition, temperature, and cell configuration. The listed first discharge efficiency of 97.5% should also be interpreted according to the original test protocol. Researchers can explore Nanografi's Lithium-Ion Battery Materials for complementary electrode components.

4. Why is carbon important in LiFePO4 cathode formulations?

LiFePO4 has relatively low intrinsic electronic conductivity, so conductive carbon is commonly incorporated into cathode formulations to improve electron transport. Nanografi reports a carbon content of 1.29% for this powder, although this value alone does not establish the carbon distribution or coating structure. Additional conductive additives may be required depending on electrode design. Researchers can evaluate materials such as C-NERGY Super P Conductive Carbon Black or C-NERGY SUPER C45 Conductive Carbon Black for conductive network development.

5. What is the difference between LiFePO4 and NMC cathode materials?

Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC) are two different lithium-ion battery cathode chemistries. LFP is known for its thermal stability and cycle-life potential, while NMC materials generally offer higher operating voltage and can support higher energy density in suitable cell designs. The best choice depends on energy requirements, power capability, safety considerations, material cost, and cell architecture. Compare this LFP powder with Nanografi's NMC and Other Cathode Materials for battery chemistry research.

6. How is LiFePO4 powder processed into a lithium-ion battery cathode?

LiFePO4 cathodes are commonly prepared by combining the active powder with conductive additives and an appropriate binder system. The formulation is dispersed or otherwise processed into a coating mixture, applied to a compatible current collector, dried, and subjected to additional electrode preparation steps as required. Mixing conditions, coating thickness, porosity, and electrode density can significantly influence performance. Researchers can explore Nanografi's Raw Materials for Battery Applications for conductive additives and other electrode components.

7. How do tap density and specific surface area affect LiFePO4 cathode performance?

Tap density describes the bulk packing behavior of a powder after standardized tapping, while specific surface area describes its accessible surface area per unit mass. This LiFePO4 grade has a reported tap density of 1.132 g/cm3 and a specific surface area of 12.21 m2/g. These properties can influence slurry rheology, electrode packing, electrolyte contact, and interfacial reactions. However, powder tap density is not equivalent to the density of a finished electrode. Final performance must be assessed through electrode fabrication and electrochemical testing.

8. Can LiFePO4 powder be used with Super P, SUPER C65, or PVDF binder?

LiFePO4 powder can be investigated in cathode formulations containing conductive carbon additives and compatible binders. Super P and SUPER C65 are commonly evaluated as conductive network-forming additives, while PVDF is used in selected solvent-based electrode manufacturing processes. The appropriate proportions depend on the active material characteristics, coating process, and target electrode properties. Researchers can compare C-NERGY Super P with C-NERGY SUPER C65 when optimizing LFP electrode formulations.

9. How should LiFePO4 cathode powder be stored and handled safely?

Lithium iron phosphate powder should be stored in tightly sealed containers under clean, dry conditions, following the product-specific Safety Data Sheet (SDS). Nanografi reports a moisture content of 1043 ppm for this grade, making moisture control relevant when preparing reproducible battery electrodes. Handling should minimize dust generation and contamination through suitable ventilation, protective equipment, and clean processing procedures. Storage conditions and any drying requirements should be confirmed against the manufacturer's documentation before electrode fabrication.