Preparation of size-controlled LiCoPO4 particles by membrane emulsification using anodic porous alumina and their application as cathode active materials for Li-ion secondary batteries

Abstract

Membrane emulsification using anodic porous alumina is an effective method for preparing monodisperse droplets with controlled sizes. In this study, membrane emulsification using anodic porous alumina was applied to the preparation of size-controlled particles composed of composite metal oxides. To obtain size-controlled composite metal oxide particles, membrane emulsification was performed using an aqueous solution containing a water-soluble monomer and metal salts as a dispersed phase. After the membrane emulsification, composite metal oxide particles were obtained by solidifying the droplets in a continuous phase and subsequent heat treatment. Here, as a demonstration of this process, the fabrication of size-controlled LiCoPO₄ particles, which are considered high-potential cathode active materials for Li-ion secondary batteries (LIBs), was investigated. The application of the obtained LiCoPO₄ particles as cathode active materials for LIBs was also investigated. The results of this study showed that LiCoPO₄ particles with controlled sizes could be fabricated on the basis of this process and that their cathode properties could be improved by optimizing the heat treatment conditions and particle sizes. According to this process, size-controlled particles composed of various metal oxides can be fabricated by changing the metal salt in the dispersed phase, and the resulting size-controlled particles are expected to be applied not only as cathode active materials for LIBs but also as components of various functional devices.