Regulation of Anion Redox Activity via Solid-Acid Modification for Highly Stable Li-Rich Mn-Based Layered Cathodes

Anionic redox activity can trigger structural instability in Li-rich Mn-based cathodes. Lattice oxygen activity can be tuned through liquid acid-induced spinel phases and oxygen vacancies. However, the liquid-acid-modified surface is still attacked by the electrolyte. Besides, the underlying mechanism of spinel phase suppression of lattice oxygen activity is controversial. Here, a solid acid strategy for modification is proposed and the underlying mechanism is investigated in detail. Unique solid acid can in situ generate an interface protection layer and remarkably stabilize the structure. Theoretical calculations and experimental characterizations reveal that the spinel phase suppresses the irreversible loss of lattice oxygen by decreasing the O 2p non-bonding energy level and enriching electrons at the layered/spinel phase interface. The inert layer on the surface prevents highly active On- from being attacked by electrolytes. The obtained material exhibits significantly reduced irreversible lattice oxygen release and improved electrochemical performance. After 300 cycles, a slow capacity fading of 0.177 mAh g-1 per cycle and suppressed voltage fading are achieved. This study reveals the regulation method and mechanism for the anion activity of oxide cathodes in next-generation Li-ion batteries. The lattice oxygen activity of Li-rich Mn-based cathode materials is well regulated by solid acid modification. The O 2p non-bonding band is lowered and electrons are enriched at the layered/spinel interface, which effectively suppresses the irreversible release of lattice oxygen. The modified material with a stable reversible structure shows suppressed O2 release and enhances electrochemical performance.image

Automated summary

This study proposes a solid acid modification strategy and investigates its underlying mechanism. The spinel phase suppresses the irreversible loss of lattice oxygen by decreasing the O 2p non-bonding energy level and enriching electrons. The modified material shows reduced irreversible lattice oxygen release and improved electrochemical performance.