Research Projects

Lithium-ion batteries require small particle sizes to achieve high cycling rates, theoretical capacity, and enhanced diffusion coefficient. Smaller particles provide higher electrode surface area, efficient particle dispersion, and reduced mechanical strain on Li-ion intercalation/de-intercalation. Nanometer size reduction improves rate performance, specific capacity, and cycling life. Nanosized LiMPO? particles are typically prepared using hydrothermal methods due to uniform particle size distribution and enhanced cycling life. However, this method is not preferred due to its complexity, high costs, and environmental pollution. Carbon-coated nano-sized particles perform better in electronic conductivity and specific capacity of Li-ion batteries. High-shear mixers and microwave-assisted hydrothermal processes have been adopted for synthesizing anticoagulant, pharmaceutical drugs, and fine chemicals. This proposal proposes developing batch and continuous ultrasonication-assisted processes for the production of LiMPO?/C nanoparticles. The study will study the influence of sonication parameters on particle size reduction, distribution, morphology, and phase structure. The LiMPO4/C particles will be characterized using DLS technique, SEM/TEM, XRD, and other methods. The aggregation and agglomeration mechanism will be studied to control LiMPO?/C particle size distribution. The discharge capacity of the batch and continuous ultra-sonication process will be compared with conventional impeller, high shear mixing, and microwave-assisted processes. The proposed strategies for controlled synthesis of LiMPO?/C for Li-ion battery applications may improve industrial production with higher efficiency.