An ultrafast synthesis method of LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 cathodes by flash/field-assisted sintering

LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 as a promising cathode material in lithium-ion batteries was synthesized by flash/field-assisted sintering technique for the first time. This study showed that the current-limited synthesis of LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 could be carried out at temperatures less than 400 degrees C for only 8minutes, compared with the conventional pressureless sintering at 850 degrees C for 12hours. X-ray diffraction results showed the phase evolution from precursor mixtures to the final LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 products during flash/field-assisted sintering process and a well-layered structure without undesirable cation mixing in the as-formed LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2. Combined with the lowered sintering temperatures and reduced sintering time, the excellent electrochemical performance of flash/field-assisted sintered LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 materials suggested that this technique could be an energy-efficient approach for the synthesis of lithium-ion battery cathode materials and other materials requiring high-temperature heat treatment.