Mesoporous γ-Fe2O3: Synthesis, structure, magnetic and electrochemical properties

Mesoporous maghemite γ-Fe₂O₃ was obtained by thermal decomposition of iron citrate xerogel hydrate. The influence of precursor molar concentration and calcination temperature on the material phase composition, morphology, crystalline and magnetic microstructure, surface condition and optical properties was studied. The model of mesoporous γ-Fe₂O₃ formation is proposed. Obtained γ-Fe₂O₃ was tested as cathode material for lithium power sources. Increase of lithium power sources specific capacity and energy with the samples specific surface area enlarging is fixed. Specific energy is 180-200 W·h/kg at the discharge rate 1.0 C. Two kinetic processes are observed during discharge processes: lithium accumulation at the cathode material/electrolyte interface and diffusion of lithium ions into the material crystal structure. The diffusion coefficients of lithium in the cathode material on the different stages of discharge process are calculated.