High-performance LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 cathode by nanoscale cerium (III) coating via atomic layer deposition

Layered lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2, NMC811) is one of the most promising positive electrode material due to its high capacity, low cost, and low toxicity (Li T, 2020). However, the structural instability of NMC at the charge/discharge process seriously restricts the battery performance and decreases its lifetime. To improve that, a thin protective coating by the ALD (Atomic Layer Deposition) can be used on the electrode for stabilizing the NMC811 batteries at high voltage. Synchrotron-based X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) analysis will give further understanding of the local and environmental changes around the Ni, Mn, and Co of electrode materials (pristine and coated), the goal of this experiment is to perform in-situ XAS on organometallic (Ce3+) and CeO2 coated along with the pristine NMC811 electrodes in fresh and aged assembled coin cells to understand the exact role and behavior of the coating in the host NMC structure during cycling.