Synthesis and characterization of Li1.25Ni0.25Mn0.5O2: A high-capacity cathode material with improved thermal stability and rate capability for lithium-ion cells

Layered Li-, Mn-rich (LLMR) materials have become the most appealing cathode material for next-generation lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) owing to multiple electron transfers involved in the redox processes. Herein, we present a novel LLMR cathode material, Li1.25Ni0.25Mn0.5O2 (LNMO), synthesized by a facile sol-gel method, delivering high specific capacity, better rate capability, and improved thermal stability. The electrochemical evaluation of the LNMO cathode revealed an initial reversible capacity of 256.5 mAhg−1 at C/10. Even at 1 C rate, the material retained a discharge capacity of> 95% of the initial 1 C capacity, at the end of 150 cycles. Additionally, the LNMO material showed improved thermal stability compared to commercially available NMC-811. The excellent electrochemical performance and thermal stability make the LNMO cathode a competing cathode material for next-generation lithium-ion cells.