Influence of the metal-induced crystallization on the structural and electrochemical properties of sputtered LiCoO2 thin films

LiCoO2 thin films were fabricated using the metal-induced crystallization (MIC) method. The condition to create the MIC effect was investigated. The location and thickness of the Al coating used to manufacture the LiCoO2 cathode thin film electrodes were varied, and the structural and electrochemical characteristics of the LiCoO2 thin film electrode were investigated by Raman spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy and charge-discharge tests. The degree of crystallization of LiCoO2 increased in the order of uncoated LiCoO2 (lowest), Al(coating)/LiCoO2/Al foil, and LiCoO2/Al(coating)/Al foil (highest), for identical heat treatment condition (600 °C, 1 h). The crystallization of LiCoO2 occurred more quickly as the Al thickness decreased, and it is considered that crystallization of LiCoO2 is delayed owing to the formation of an alloy between Li-Al when there is more Al.