Abstract: Several synthetic additives have been used to improve the carbon coatings on LiFePO4 electrode materials. Pyromellitic acid (PA) added prior to calcination decreases the D/G ratios of the carbon produced in situ, while the use of both iron nitrate and PA results in increased sp2 character. Thus, the carbon coatings are structured with a greater fraction of graphitic character. The production of structured carbon coatings results in higher pressed pellet conductivities of LiFePO4/C composites and improved electrochemical performance of cells containing these cathode materials, although the carbon content is not necessarily increased. The combination of both ferrocene and PA used during LiFePO4 synthesis causes more carbon to be retained, although the structural characteristics are similar to that produced from the same amount of PA alone.

Abstract: A method for forming a graphitic carbon film at low temperatures is described. The method involves using microwave radiation to produce a neutral gas plasma in a reactor cell. At least one carbon precursor material in the reactor cell forms a graphitic carbon film on a substrate in the cell under influence of the plasma. This method can be used to coat active electrode material powders with highly conductive carbon, which can be especially useful in forming composite electrodes. When an organometallic is used as the precursor, this method can also be used to form carbon/metal catalyst films.

Abstract: Process for the preparation of electrodes from a porous material making it possible to obtain electrodes that are useful in electrochemical systems and that have at least one of the following properties: a high capacity in mnAh/gram, a high capaciaty in mAh/liter, a good capacity for cycling, a low rate of self discharge, and a good environmental tolerance.

Abstract: A light activated photoelectrochromic device is formed of a two-component system formed of a photoactive charge carrier generating material and electrochromic material (plus an elecrolyte). Light interacts with a semiconductive material to generate hole-electron charge carriers which cause a redox reaction in the electrochromic material. One device is formed of hydrated nickel oxide as the electrochromic layer and polycrystalline titanium dioxide as the charge generating material. The materials may be formed as discrete layers or mixed together. Because of the direct charge transfer between the layers, a circuit to apply a voltage to drive the electrochromic reaction is not required, although one can be used to enhance the reaction. The hydrated nickel oxide-titanium dioxide materials can also be used to form a photovoltaic device for generating electricity.