Idea to Innovation Grant (Innov IIB): Melt synthesis process and C-LMP cathode powder manufacturing optimization for end use

LiFePO4和LiFe(1-x)MnxPO4的熔融合成已经在中试规模上被证明是典型制造途径的低成本替代方案。液相高温过程得益于LiFePO4在还原气氛中的快速反应动力学和热力学稳定性。该项目的目标是优化熔体合成工艺和合成后的步骤，以生产从实验室到中试规模的C-LMP （M=Fe, Mn…）产品，同时优化工艺路径并推导缩放规则，以便根据汽车和大型蓄电池行业的原始设备制造商（OEM）的电化学性能和物理化学特性达到材料的合格要求。项目步骤如下：1；从当地供应商（采矿和前体公司）选择反应物：各种等级和纯度及其对C-LMP合成的评价。中试合成和中试粉体加工：优化合成、粒度降低和热解步骤。小电池的实验室测试和材料鉴定和质量控制。OEM客户现场测试

Melt-synthesis of LiFePO4 and LiFe(1-x)MnxPO4 has already been demonstrated in pilot-scale as a low-cost alternative to typical manufacturing pathways. The high temperautre process in the liquid phase, benefits from rapid reaction kinetics and the thermodynamic stability of LiFePO4 in a reducing atmosphere. The objective of the project is to optimize the melt-synthesis process and the post-synthesis steps to manufacture C-LMP (M=Fe, Mn...) products from the lab- to pilot-scale while optimizing process path and deriving scaling rules in order to reach qualification of the material on the basis of electrochemical performance and physico-chemical characteristics by Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) of the automotive and large accumulator sectors. The project steps are:1. Reactant selection from local suppliers (mining and precursors companies): various grade and purities and thier evaluation for the synthesis of C-LMP tested 2. Pilot scale synthesis and Pilot-scale powder processing: optimization of the synthesis, particle size reduction and pyrolysis steps3. Laboratory testing in small cells and material qualification and quality control4. Field testing by OEM customers