Electron Diffraction Studies of LiNi[sub 1/3]Mn[sub 1/3]Co[sub 1/3]O[sub 2] After Charge–Discharge Cycling

Abstract

The performance of LiNi 1/3 Mn 1/3 Co 1/3 O 2 depends largely on the distribution of transition-metal (TM) ions over the available lattice sites within the layered rocksalt structure. Despite predictions that the TM ions take on an ordered arrangement described by a √3 × √3R30° supercell, little experimental evidence is available to confirm this model. However, the observed cation distribution likely depends on synthesis conditions. Here, we present a study of commercially produced LiNi 1/3 Mn 1/3 Co 1/3 O 2 synthesized at 1000°C before and after charge-discharge cycling. Electron diffraction shows that in-plane ordering is observed to small extents. After charge-discharge cycling, a transformation toward the cubic spinel structure and significant morphology changes are observed.