Formation Mechanism of LiFePO₄ Sticks Grown by a Microwave‐Assisted Liquid‐Phase Process

Abstract A time‐dependent study on the formation of LiFePO₄ with olivine‐type structure is presented. The material is synthesized through a non‐aqueous route in benzyl alcohol assisted by microwave radiation. The LiFePO₄ forms with an anisotropic morphology of microscale stick‐like particles. The detailed structure of these particles and their evolution with reaction time is revealed by transmission electron microscopy; a 3D reconstruction of a particle by electron tomography provides insight into the formation mechanism of these sticks. Without applying a thermal post‐annealing treatment or a carbon coating, the electrochemical behavior of the LiFePO₄ microsticks is assessed for the preparation of cathodes in lithium‐ion batteries.