Li[Li(0.2)Ni(0.16)Mn(0.56)Co(0.08)]O(2) Nanoparticle/Carbon Composite Using Polydopamine Binding Agent for Enhanced Electrochemical Performance

Li[Li(0.2)Ni(0.16)Mn(0.56)Co(0.08)]O(2) nanoparticles were composited with carbon (Super P) in order to achieve an enhanced rate capability. A polydopamine pre-coating layer was introduced to facilitate the adhesion between Super P and pristine nanoparticles. The Super P particles were dispersed on the surface of Li[Li(0.2)Ni(0.16)Mn(0.56)Co(0.08)]O(2) powders. The composite samples that were heat-treated in a N(2) atmosphere showed increased capacity and enhanced rate capability, which was caused by the improved electronic conductivity owing to the presence of carbon. However, the composite samples that were heat-treated in air did not present these carbon-related effects clearly. The capacity changes observed during the first several cycles may be due to the oxygen deficiency of the structure caused by the heat-treatment process.