Unraveling the chemical and structural evolution of novel Li-rich layered/rocksalt intergrown cathode for Li-ion batteries

The prototype material, Li_1.23Ru_0.41Ni_0.36O₂, is proposed to gain the deep and comprehensive understanding of chemical and structural changes of the novel layered/rocksalt intergrown cathodes. Synchrotron-based X-ray absorption spectra and resonant inelastic X-ray scattering reveal that both cationic and anionic redox evolves in the charge compensation process of the intergrown material, while synchrotron-based extended X-ray fine structure spectra and in situ X-ray diffraction measurements demonstrates that the intergrown material undergoes minimal local- and long-range structural variations at deep de/lithiation. This work highlights the great potential of the intergrown structure to inspire the design of advanced cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries.