Exploring the Mechanisms of LiNiO₂ Cathode Degradation by the Electrolyte Interfacial Deprotonation Reaction

Nickel-rich layered oxides stand as ideal cathode candidates for high specific capacity and energy density next-generation lithium-ion batteries. However, increasing the Ni content significantly exacerbates structural degradation under high operating voltage, which greatly restricts large-scale commercialization. While strategies are being developed to improve cathode material stability, little is known about the effects of electrolyte-electrode interaction on the structural changes of cathode materials. Here, using LiNiO₂ in contact with electrolytes with different proton-generating levels as model systems, we present a holistic picture of proton-induced structural degradation of LiNiO₂. Through ab initio molecular dynamics calculations based on density functional theory, we investigated the mechanisms of electrolyte deprotonation, protonation-induced Ni dissolution, and cathode degradation and the impacts of dissolved Ni on the Li metal anode surfaces. We show that the proton-transfer reaction from electrolytes to cathode surfaces leads to dissolution of Ni cations in the form of NiOOH_x, which stimulates cation mixing and oxygen loss in the lattice accelerating its layered-spinel-rock-salt phase transition. Migration of dissolved Ni²⁺ ions to the anode side causes their reduction into the metallic state and surface deposition. This work reveals that interactions between the electrolyte and cathode that result in protonation can be a dominant factor for the structural stability of Ni-rich cathodes. Considering this factor in electrolyte design should be of benefit for the development of future batteries.