Optimized Ni-rich LiNi0.83Co0.06Mn0.06Al0.05O2 cathode material with a Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 fast ion conductor coating for Lithium-ion batteries

The high nickel cathode LiNi0.83Co0.06Mn0.06Al0.05O2 (combination of NCM and NCA) coated with the Li+ conductor Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 in various mass fractions was prepared via using the typical sol-gel process. The LiNi0.83Co0.06Mn0.06Al0.05O2 after the Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 covering demonstrated the similar crystal structure and particle morphology in comparison with the bare cathode. The electrochemical test results indicated the superior rate capabilities and cycling performances were acquired for the coated cathodes due to the presence of the Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 film on the surface of LiNi0.83Co0.06Mn0.06Al0.05O2. The 2 wt% Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 covered LiNi0.83Co0.06Mn0.06Al0.05O2 exhibited the greatest electrochemical performance with a large cycle retention rate of 90.9% over 300 cycles at 45 °C, rate capacity of 139.8 mAh g−1 at 5 C current density, and a high capability of 126.5 mAh g−1 at − 30 °C, superior than those (80.9%, 99.8 mAh g−1, 71.3mAh g−1 accordingly) of the bare cathode. In addition, the safety and environmental reliability tests of pouch batteries suggested the Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 film on the surface of cathode acted as a protective layer to promote the stability for application.