Structural evolution and the capacity fade mechanism upon long-term cycling in Li-rich cathode material

High capacity Li-rich layered cathode Li(Li0.2Mn0.54Ni0.13Co0.13)O-2 and doped one are investigated to understand mechanisms of capacity fade as well as voltage decrease upon long-term cycling. Detailed electrochemical analysis reveals a phase-separation-like behavior with increase in the cycle number, which is responsible for gradual reduction in discharge voltage. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), transmission electron microscope coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (TEM-EDS) and inductively coupled plasma emission spectrometry (ICP) analysis results show increase in valence of transition metals on the surface of powder at a fully discharged state in addition to surface dissolution of Ni, leading to rapid capacity loss. High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) shows a phase transformation from original layered structure into spinel-like nano-domains in local structure. Though such an unexpected structural change is unfavorable because of lower output voltage, it is observed to be beneficial for high-rate performance.