Templated assembly of LiNi0·8Co0·15Al0·05O2/graphene nano composite with high rate capability and long-term cyclability for lithium ion battery

Abstract

LiNi0·8Co0·15Al0·05O2 (NCA) is known as one of the most frequently used cathode materials for high-performance lithium ion batteries (LIB). However, the capacity fading and low cycle ability limit the expansibility of its development and application. Here, we report a three-dimensional nano-structured NCA/graphene composite (G-NCA) by a facile template self-assembly approach. The increased surface area and enhanced synergistic effect from the three-dimensional network enable the advance of electrical conductivity and steady nano-structure, resulting in a dramatic increase in rate capability and cycling stability. It is noted that the reversible capacity and discharge retention of 1G-NCA composite cathode was obviously higher than pristine NCA electrode. Especially, 1G-NCA exhibited a reversible capacity of 153.6 mAh g−1 with retention of 82.1% while pristine NCA showed only 125.3 mAh g−1 with retention of 77% at 5 C discharged rate. This G-NCA composite opens a promising way for long lifespan and high rate electrode material in large-scale LIB application.