3D Reticular Li_1.2Ni_0.2Mn_0.6O₂ Cathode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries

In this study, a hard-templating route was developed to synthesize a 3D reticular Li1.2Ni0.2Mn0.6O2 cathode material using ordered mesoporous silica as the hard template. The synthesized 3D reticular Li1.2Ni0.2Mn0.6O2 microparticles consisted of two interlaced 3D nanonetworks and a mesopore channel system. When used as the cathode material in a lithium-ion battery, the as-synthesized 3D reticular Li1.2Ni0.2Mn0.6O2 exhibited remarkably enhanced electrochemical performance, namely, superior rate capability and better cycling stability than those of its bulk counterpart. Specifically, a high discharge capacity of 195.6 mA h g-1 at 1 C with 95.6% capacity retention after 50 cycles was achieved with the 3D reticular Li1.2Ni0.2Mn0.6O2. A high discharge capacity of 135.7 mA h g-1 even at a high current of 1000 mA g-1 was also obtained. This excellent electrochemical performance of the 3D reticular Li1.2Ni0.2Mn0.6O2 is attributed to its designed structure, which provided nanoscale lithium pathways, large specific surface area, good thermal and mechanical stability, and easy access to the material center.