High-capacity phase formation by surface modification of Li3PO4 on nanosized Li2RuO3 electrode for lithium batteries

► Surface structure of Li2RuO3 electrode was modified by Li3PO4 deposition. ► Li3PO4-modified Li2RuO3 exhibited a much higher discharge capacity (296 mAh g−1) than unmodified Li2RuO3 (190 mAh g−1). ► Modified Li2RuO3 had a smaller irreversible capacity in the first cycle (22 mAh g−1) than unmodified Li2RuO3 (148 mAh g−1). ► Surface modification induced by Li3PO4 deposition enhances structural stability of Li2RuO3 surface.