Composite Cathode Active Material with LDO Coating for Structural Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current nickel-based cathode active materials in lithium batteries suffer from structural instability and performance deterioration due to fracture during charge and discharge, leading to reduced energy density and lifespan.
Innovation Solution
A composite cathode active material is developed, comprising a first metal oxide with a layered crystal structure and a layered double oxide (LDO) coating, which enhances structural stability and prevents side reactions with the electrolyte, achieved through calcination of a mixture of a layered double hydroxide and the first metal oxide.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If nickel-based cathode active material is used to increase capacity, then energy density is improved, but structural stability deteriorates due to fracture during charge and discharge
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining nickel-based cathode active material with a coating layer comprising layered double oxide (LDO) or amorphous alumina. This composite structure allows the nickel-based material to provide high capacity and energy density while the coating layer provides structural stability and prevents fracture during charge and discharge cycles, thereby resolving the contradiction between energy density and structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a thin film coating layer (LDO or amorphous alumina) that conforms to the surface of the nickel-based cathode active material particles. This thin film acts as a protective shell that maintains structural integrity during volume changes and mechanical stress, preventing particle fracture while allowing the underlying high-capacity nickel-based material to function, thus resolving the contradiction between high energy density and structural stability.
2Use of energy by moving object
If nickel-based cathode active material is used to increase capacity, then specific energy is improved, but performance deterioration occurs due to side reactions with electrolyte
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a coating layer of layered double oxide (LDO) or amorphous alumina as an intermediary between the nickel-based cathode active material and the electrolyte. This intermediary layer prevents direct contact and side reactions between the nickel-based material and the electrolyte, thereby maintaining performance stability and preventing deterioration, while allowing the high specific energy of the nickel-based material to be realized.
3Stability of the object's composition
If coating layer is applied to improve structural stability, then thermal stability is enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the coating layer formation process with the existing cathode material synthesis process. The layered double oxide (LDO) or amorphous alumina coating is applied during the calcination step that is already part of the nickel-based cathode active material manufacturing process, rather than requiring a separate coating step. This integration reduces manufacturing complexity while achieving enhanced thermal stability through the protective coating.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The composite cathode active material improves energy density, specific energy, and lifespan characteristics of lithium batteries by suppressing structural changes and side reactions, leading to enhanced thermal stability and cycle performance.
Implementation Method 1
a second metal oxide having a second layered crystal structure, wherein the second metal oxide comprises a layered double oxide (LDO)... prevents side reactions with the electrolyte... enhancing thermal stability
Data Source
AI summary
A composite cathode active material, includes a first metal oxide having a first layered crystal structure; and a second metal oxide having a second layered crystal structure, wherein the second metal oxide includes a layered double oxide (LDO). Also a cathode and a lithium battery including the composite cathode active material.