Recycling of Ni-rich Li(Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1)O2 cathode materials by a thermomechanical method

Abstract

We report high electrochemical performances of Li(Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1)O2 cathode obtained from electrode scraps of lithium ion batteries. The Li(Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1)O2 cathode was obtained by a thermomechanical method. In order to remove binders and lithium impurities existing on the surface and enhance the crystallinity, the heat treatment was performed at 750 °C and 780 °C. The Li(Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1)O2 cathode heated at 780 °C exhibits superior electrochemical performances, almost identical to that of the bare Li(Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1)O2. It is elucidated by well-ordered layered structure with clean and smooth surface. The Li(Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1)O2 cathode heated at 780 °C delivers a discharge capacity of 207.2 mAh g−1 and extraordinary cycling stability of 96.3% retention after 30 cycles at 0.5C. Therefore, we can conclude that our proposed approach can be regarded as an efficient way for Li(Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1)O2 cathode recycling.