Synthesis of LiNi0.85Co0.14Al0.01O2 cathode material and its performance in an NCA/graphite full-battery

Abstract

Nickel-rich cathode material, NCA (85:14:1), is successfully synthesized using two different, simple and economical batch methods, i.e., hydroxide co-precipitation (NCA-CP) and the hydroxides solid state reaction method (NCA-SS), followed by heat treatments. Based on the FTIR spectra, all precursor samples exhibit two functional groups of hydroxide and carbonate. The XRD patterns of NCA-CP and NCA-SS show a hexagonal layered structure (space group: R_3m), with no impurities detected. Based on the SEM images, the micro-sized particles exhibit a sphere-like shape with aggregates. The electrochemical performances of the samples were tested in a 18650-type full-cell battery using artificial graphite as the counter anode at the voltage range of 2.7–4.25 V. All samples have similar characteristics and electrochemical performances that are comparable to the commercial NCA battery, despite going through different synthesis routes. In conclusion, the overall results are considered good and have the potential to be adapted for commercialization.