Aerosol Spray Pyrolysis Synthesis of Doped LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 Cathode Materials for Next Generation Lithium-Ion Batteries

Abstract

The autonomy of next generation Electric Vehicles relies on the development of high energy density automotive batteries. LiMn1.5Ni0.5O4 (spinel structure) is a promising active cathode material in terms of charge rate capability, theoretical capacity, cost and sustainability being a cobalt-free material. In the current study pristine and doped (Fe, Al, Mg) LiMn1.5Ni0.5O4 particles were synthesized by an Aerosol Spray Pyrolysis pilot scale unit in a production rate of 100 gr. h−1 and were evaluated for their electrochemical activity in Half Coin Cell form. The doped particles were characterized in terms of their surface area, particle size distribution, crystallite size, morphology and ion insertion of the doping element into the LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 lattice by Raman spectroscopy. The mixed oxide particles had homogeneous composition which is an inert characteristic of aerosol spray pyrolysis synthesis. The electrochemical activity of the material is attributed both to the nanoscale structure, by successful dopant ion insertion into the spinel lattice as well as to optimization of carbon and spinel particle interface contact in the microscale for increase of electrode conductivity.