A review of high-capacity lithium-rich manganese-based cathode materials for a new generation of lithium batteries

Abstract

Lithium-rich manganese-based cathode material xLi2MnO3-(1-x) LiMO2 (0<x<1, M=Ni, Co, Mn, etc., LMR) offers numerous advantages, including high specific capacity, low cost, and environmental friendliness. It is considered the most promising next-generation lithium battery cathode material, with a power density of 300-400 Wh·kg-1, capable of addressing the issues of limited range and low safety in electric vehicles. However, LMR materials suffer from significant irreversible capacity loss and low specific capacity during the initial charge and discharge cycles. At high current densities, they also exhibit issues such as voltage attenuation and thermal stability degradation. Despite being discovered nearly 30 years ago, these problems have prevented their commercial application. In response to these challenges, extensive research has been conducted. This paper reviews recent advancements in understanding the structure and electrochemical reaction mechanisms of LMR materials. It explains the effects and modification mechanisms after adjusting material composition, designing crystal structures, ion doping, surface coating, and designing surface structure and morphology. The future development directions and commercial prospects of LMR materials are explored to support the industrial advancement of lithium-rich manganese-based cathode materials.