Tailoring Ni-Rich Cathode Properties with Mo Doping for Next-Generation Li-Ion Batteries

Among battery components, cathode chemistry is a defining feature because it primarily determines both cost and performance. Enhancing the long-term cycling stability of Ni-rich layered cathode materials is crucial for high-energy-density applications in electric vehicles. However, the intrinsic instability of these Ni-rich layered cathode materials, which increases with increasing Ni content, limits their commercial use. 1 Doping is a promising strategy to improve stability and performance. However, improving cycling performance through cathode material doping is challenging and requires the careful tuning of the doping parameters and conditions. 2 Among the various dopants, Mo is highly effective in refining cathode morphology across a broad range of lithiation temperatures, enhancing the resistance of cathode particles to mechanical damage and improving their stability during repeated cycling. Hearin, we investigate the impact of molybdenum (Mo) doping on Ni-rich NCMA cathodes, examining how varing Mo content and lithiation temperatures affect material properties. To evaluate the effect of Mo as a dopant, we focused on the morphological properties and crystallinity of Mo-doped Ni-rich NCMA94 cathode materials. The results show that optimal Mo doping improves cathode morphology and crystallinity, leading to better electrochemical performance. 3 Mo-doped NCMA94 cathodes with refined primary particle size and high crystallinity demonstrate superior capacity and cycling stability. This study provides insights into optimizing doping parameters for advanced Ni-rich cathode materials, supporting long cycle life in next-generation Li-ion batteries. References: [1] H.-H. Ryu, K.-J. Parl, C.-S. Yoon, Y.-K. Sun, Chemistry of materials , 2018 , 30(3), 1155. [2] Z. Peng, K. Mu, Y. Cao, L. Xu, G. Hu, Ceramics International , 2019 , 45(4), 4184. [3] H.-H. Ryu, H.-W. Lim, S.-G. Lee, Y.-K. Sun, Energy Storage Materials , 2023 , 59 , 102771.