Na-doped LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 with enhanced rate performance as a cathode for Li-ion batteries

The applications of LiNi 1/3 Co 1/3 Mn 1/3 O 2 (LNCM111) can be expanded if its electrochemical performance is improved. In this study, LNCM111–xNa samples with different Na-doping concentrations were successfully prepared by solid-phase and hydrothermal methods as a cathode material for Li-ion batteries. The effect of Na doping on the structures and electrochemical properties of the resultant layered oxide cathode materials was then investigated. The crystalline structure and morphology of the materials were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. The results of these analyses indicated that all of the synthesized materials were free of impurities and Na doping did not change the LNCM111 structure. Moreover, a proper doping concentration can reduce the degree of cation mixing in the samples. These findings collectively indicate that LNCM111–0.1Na is a promising material with potential applications in high-performance batteries.