Controllable synthesis of LiFePO4 microrods and its superior electrochemical performance

•LiFePO4 microparticles and microrods were synthesized through a hydrothermal method.•SEM micrographs confirmed the particles and rods-shaped morphologies.•High specific capacity beyond the theoretical specific capacity was achieved.•High capacity retention of ~97% was attained over 600 cycles at 10 C rate.