Synthesis and characterization of manganese-, nickel-, and cobalt-containing carbonate precursors for high capacity Li-ion battery cathodes

Mn-rich transition metal (Mn, Ni, Co) carbonate precursor was precipitated as the precursor for Li- and Mn-enriched composite material used as advanced cathode for lithium-ion battery. The pH zone that favors carbonate precipitation reactions for transition metals (Co, Ni, Mn) was predicted by taking into account the chemical equilibriums between metal elements Me (Co, Ni, Mn) and ammonia bicarbonate. The physical properties of the precursor and the final lithiated cathode material were characterized in detail, and the electrochemical properties of the prepared Li1.2Ni0.12Co0.12Mn0.56O2 powder were evaluated. The study aids in understanding the precipitation and yields an optimal precipitation condition for the system.