Preparation of Layered‐Spinel Microsphere/Reduced Graphene Oxide Cathode Materials for Ultrafast Charge–Discharge Lithium‐Ion Batteries

Abstract Although Li‐rich layered oxides (LLOs) have the highest capacity of any cathodes used, the rate capability of LLOs falls short of meeting the requirements of electric vehicles and smart grids. Herein, a layered‐spinel microsphere/reduced graphene oxide heterostructured cathode (LS@rGO) is prepared in situ. This cathode is composed of a spinel phase, two layered structures, and a small amount of reduced graphene oxide (1.08 wt % of carbon). The assembly delivers a considerable charge capacity (145 mA h g −1 ) at an ultrahigh charge– discharge rate of 60 C (12 A g −1 ). The rate capability of LS@rGO is influenced by the introduced spinel phase and rGO. X‐ray absorption and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy data indicate that Cr ions move from octahedral lattice sites to tetrahedral lattice sites, and that Mn ions do not participate in the oxidation reaction during the initial charge process.