Purpose and goal
The project will develop and test a microwave furnace compatible with synchrotron-based X-ray powder diffraction. Using the oven, the goal is to investigate whether microwave heating can provide faster, more energy-efficient and better control in the synthesis of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) for battery cathodes. In-situ experiments with the furnace will enable mapping of how the heating method affects reaction kinetics, phase formation, crystallinity and material quality.
Expected effects and result
The project is expected to provide knowledge on whether microwave synthesis can shorten process times, reduce energy consumption and improve control of LFP production. The results can be translated into optimized heating profiles and future pilot projects. In the longer term, the technology can contribute to competitive, resource-efficient and locally based manufacturing of battery materials.
Planned approach and implementation
PercyRoc will develop a microwave furnace adapted for use in powder diffraction beamlines, while Uppsala University contributes expertise in synchrotron-based powder diffraction and data analysis. The project aims to follow LFP synthesis in real time during heating with the microwave furnace developed by PercyRoc at DanMAX at MAX IV (or similar beamlines). Synchrotron-based radiation is necessary as microwave heating occurs very quickly, making laboratory-based instruments too slow.
The project description has been provided by the project members themselves and the text has not been looked at by our editors.
