Enhanced Cathode Performance: The Heterostructure Construction of LiCoO2@Co3O4@Li6.4La3Zr1.4Ta0.6O12

In this study, the heterostructure cathode material LiCoO₂@Co₃O₄@Li_6.4La₃Zr_1.4Ta_0.6O₁₂ was prepared by coating Li_6.4La₃Zr_1.4Ta_0.6O₁₂ on the surface of LiCoO₂ through a one-step solid-phase synthesis. The morphology, structure, electrical state, and elemental contents of both pristine and modified materials were assessed through a range of characterization techniques. Theoretical calculations revealed that the LCO@LLZTO material possessed a reduced diffusion barrier compared to LiCoO₂, thereby facilitating the movement of Li ions. Electrochemical tests indicated that the capacity retention rate of the modified cathode composites stood at 70.43% following 300 cycles at a 2C rate. This high rate occurred because the Li_6.4La₃Zr_1.4Ta_0.6O₁₂ film on the surface enhanced the migration of Li⁺, and the spinel phase of Co₃O₄ had better interfacial stability to alleviate the generation of microcracks by inhibiting the phase change from the layered phase to the rock-salt phase, which considerably improved the electrochemical properties.