Enhancing the rate capability of high capacity xLi2MnO3 · (1 − x)LiMO2 (M = Mn, Ni, Co) electrodes by Li–Ni–PO4 treatment

The rate capability of high capacity xLi2MnO3 · (1 − x)LiMO2 (M = Mn, Ni, Co) electrodes for lithium-ion batteries has been significantly enhanced by stabilizing the electrode surface by reaction with a Li–Ni–PO4 solution, followed by a heat-treatment step. Reversible capacities of 250 mAh/g at a C/11 rate, 225 mAh/g at C/2 and 200 mAh/g at C/1 have been obtained from 0.5Li2MnO3 · 0.5LiNi0.44Co0.25Mn0.31O2 electrodes between 4.6 and 2.0 V. The data bode well for their implementation in batteries that meet the 40-mile range requirement for plug-in hybrid vehicles.