Structural Control of Short-Range Order in Disordered Rock Salts by a Novel Low-Temperature Solution-Based Synthesis Method

Abstract

Disordered rock salts (DRX) have the potential to replace current Ni and Co-based cathode materials, given their high energy density as well as the cheap and abundant source of precursors, enhancing sustainability in Lithium-ion batteries (LIB). Its commercialization is impeded by detrimental short-range order (SRO) at the atomic level, which disrupts lithium percolation channels and decreases performance in batteries. SRO is promoted by high-temperature synthesis, which also limits F substitution. Here we present a novel solution-based synthesis protocol to make Li 1.2 Ti 0.4 Mn 0.4 O 2 based DRXs at low temperatures, allowing fluoride doping and opening the door for more sustainable DRX positive electrode materials for LIB.