Constructing Face-Shared Configuration at the Hetero-Interface in Li-Rich Layered Oxide Cathodes

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Lithium-rich cathodes offer high energy density for next-generation batteries.
• Li extraction causes vacancies, leading to TM migration and structural degradation.
• Anion redox in Li-rich cathodes provides additional capacity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design a stable lithium-rich cathode structure.
• To suppress transition metal (TM) migration and structural degradation.
• To enhance the performance and reversibility of lithium-rich battery cathodes.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a Li-rich heterostructure (O2 and O3 phases).
• Investigation of heterointerface structure and TM migration suppression.
• Analysis of Li+ deintercalation/re-intercalation reversibility and structural stability.

Main Results:

• The heterostructure suppresses out-of-plane TM migration by minimizing Li vacancies.
• A homo-arranged, face-shared interface configuration further inhibits TM migration.
• Reduced TM vacancies and clusters enhance Li+ deintercalation/re-intercalation reversibility.
• The O2 phase introduction improves the structural stability of the O3 phase.

Conclusions:

• The designed heterostructure significantly enhances structural stability and electrochemical performance.
• This strategy provides a pathway for developing practical Li-rich cathodes with high capacity and stability.
• Understanding heterointerface mechanisms is key for advanced battery materials.