Technique for creating stabilized lithium metal oxide battery materials

Argonne scientists Albert Lipson and Jessica Durham Macholz have patented a process to stabilize lithium-ion battery cathodes by selectively infusing metal ions into the surface of lithium metal oxide microparticles. The technique can be inserted into a normal cathode synthesis process to create individual particles with selected surface coatings or gradients of oxide materials that are more stable during a battery’s lifetime.

The process can be applied to high-nickel content cathode materials, which are inherently less stable over time. Addressing stability and safety of nickel-rich cathode materials reduces the need for cobalt — the most expensive and problematic material to obtain for lithium-ion batteries — while maximizing the performance of the battery.