Passion fruit-like structure endows Li3V2(PO4)3@C/CNT composite with superior cyclic stability and rate performance

Abstract Monoclinic Li3V2(PO4)3 (LVP) fulfills safety requirements including superior chemical and thermal stabilities since the oxygen atoms are firmly anchored in PO43- units, however the low intrinsic electronic conductivity strictly limits its electrochemical performance. Herein, to overcome this problem, a rationally designed passion fruit-like LVP@C/CNT composite constructed with LVP grains as seeds, carbon matrix as pulp, and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as filaments, has been prepared via a facile spray pyrolysis method. In such unique biomimetic structure, carbon matrix encases LVP to reduce its particle size, which is beneficial to shorten ion pathways; Porous structure scattered around carbon matrix facilitates the rapid penetration of electrolyte; 3D CNT networks afford high-speed electron conduction and remarkable structural stability by forming the bridges between LVP grains. Owing to the multiple merits of this biomimetic structure, the rationally designed LVP@C/CNT composite with 3 wt.% CNT exhibits high reversible capacity, superior cyclic stability and remarkable rate capability.