Tailoring the MAX phase additive for enhanced electrochemical performance of high Ni layered oxide composite electrode

Abstract

The new strategy of MAX phase application in the LIB's cathode composite with high nickel content was suggested in this work. Two MAX phase candidates – TSC and TAC (Ti3SiC2 and Ti3AlC2, respectively) – with outstanding electronic conductivity were used as LiNi0.85Co0.10Mn0.05O2-cathode composite (NCM) additive in amount of 1 % by weight. Structural and morphology monitoring was conducted on each stage of NCM-modification, performed by wet route with post-heat treatment of active material (AM). We found the optimal post-heat temperature (400 °C) to prepare TSC-composite electrode with the enhanced cycling stability – its capacity retention was 96 % and 89 % after 50 cycles at room and elevated temperature of cycling test, respectively. Based on the morphology of MAX phases milled particles with flaky shape, oxidation stability evaluation and electrode resistance measurements we presented here the mechanism of MAX-phase influence on electrochemical performance of high Ni layered oxide electrode composite.