(Invited) Synthesis and Electrochemical Performance of Nb Coated/Substituted Nickel-Rich Layered Oxide Cathodes in Lithium Ion Batteries

Layered metal oxides have been considered the most important cathode materials in Li-ion batteries. Further, nickel rich LiNixCoyMn1-x-yO2 (x ≥ 0.8) cathodes are very attractive in automotive industry due to their high discharge capacities. However, the high nickel content creates a number of challenges, including high surface reactivity and structural instability. Through a wet chemistry method, Nb coated and substituted NMC 811 was prepared in a single step treatment. The coating layer and penetration of Nb can be controlled by sintering temperature. As a result, the 1st capacity loss, discharge capacity, rate performance and cycling stability were significantly improved. In addition, we found the Nb coating layer can increase the discharge capacity and Nb penetrated into NMC 811 can stabilize the structure. Acknowledgement: This work was supported by the Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Office of Vehicle Technologies of the U.S. Department of Energy, through the Advanced Battery Materials Research Program (Battery500 Consortium).