Controlled crystal growth and electrode formation of single crystalline Li(Ni,Mn)2O4 spinel cathodes

Abstract

To promote the practical application of single crystalline (SC) cathode materials, it is essential tailoring the electrochemically active crystal phase with specific surface growth favored to the Li+ transport. Additionally, the electrode formation should be adjusted accordingly for the corresponding polygonal shape SC particles, which significantly affects the overall physical/electrochemical properties for the given cathode materials. Herein, we present optimal crystal synthesis and cathode formation for the spinel LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 SC particles and evaluate the electrochemical performances. The resultant particles are uniform octahedral shape with the (111) and (100) planes preserving stable surface conditions grown in Li2MoO4 flux. We can also realize the porosity-controlled cathode formation using the corresponding SC particles is important in alleviating the severe capacity fade under high voltage and current densities, which was confirmed by the degree of lithiation and delithiation during the cycle reactions in conjunction with the spectroscopy analysis such as Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy.