LiMn0.5Co0.5BO3 solid solution: Towards high performance cathode material for next-generation lithium-ion battery

LiMn0.5Co0.5BO3 solid solution is synthesized by Sol-gel method. The crystal structure, morphology and the electrochemical properties of the LiMn0.5Co0.5BO3 solid solution are analyzed. X-ray diffraction analysis result reveals the existence of monoclinic phase with C2/c space group. Raman spectroscopy result indicates the presence of Co-O and Mn-O stretching vibration. X-ray Photoelectron spectroscopy confirms the surface oxidation of Mn in the LiMn0.5Co0.5BO3 solid solution. Transmission electron microscopy image shows the elongated spherical shaped particle with diameter of 40 nm. Galvanostatic charge - discharge studies indicate that the LiMn0.5Co0.5BO3 solid solution delivers the first discharge capacity of 110 mAh g−1 at C/10 rate with good stability and yield 68 mAh g−1 at 75th cycle. The enhanced electrochemical properties demonstrated in this study will give more attention to borate based cathode material as a potential alternative to current lithium-ion battery cathodes.