3D reticular Li_1.2Ni_0.2Mn_0.6O₂ cathode material for lithium-ion batteries

In this study, a hard-templating route was developed to synthesize a 3D reticular Li_1.2Ni_0.2Mn_0.6O₂ cathode material using ordered mesoporous silica as the hard template. The synthesized 3D reticular Li_1.2Ni_0.2Mn_0.6O₂ microparticles consisted of two interlaced 3D nanonetworks and a mesopore channel system. When used as the cathode material in a lithium-ion battery, the as-synthesized 3D reticular Li_1.2Ni_0.2Mn_0.6O₂ exhibited remarkably enhanced electrochemical performance, namely, superior rate capability and better cycling stability than those of its bulk counterpart. Specifically, a high discharge capacity of 195.6 mA h g⁻¹ at 1 C with 95.6% capacity retention after 50 cycles was achieved with the 3D reticular Li_1.2Ni_0.2Mn_0.6O₂. A high discharge capacity of 135.7 mA h g⁻¹ even at a high current of 1000 mA g⁻¹ was also obtained. This excellent electrochemical performance of the 3D reticular Li_1.2Ni_0.2Mn_0.6O₂ is attributed to its designed structure, which provided nanoscale lithium pathways, large specific surface area, good thermal and mechanical stability, and easy access to the material center.