Structural Understanding for High-Voltage Stabilization of Lithium Cobalt Oxide.

The rapid development of modern consumer electronics is placing higher demands on lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO 2 ; LCO) cathode that powers them. Increasing operating voltage is exclusively effective in boosting LCO capacity and energy density but is inhibited by the innate high-voltage instability of LCO structure that serves as the foundation and determinant of its electrochemical behavior in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). This has stimulated extensive research on LCO structural stabilization. Here, we focus on the fundamental structural understanding of LCO cathode from long-term studies. Multi-scale structures concerning LCO bulk and surface and various structural issues along with their origins and corresponding stabilization strategies with specific mechanisms are uncovered and elucidated at length, which will certainly deepen and advance our knowledge of LCO structure and further its inherent relationship with electrochemical performance. And based on these understandings, remaining questions and opportunities for future stabilization of LCO structure are also emphasized. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.