Ton-scale preparation of single-crystal Ni-rich ternary cathode materials for high-performance lithium ion batteries

Single-crystal nickel (Ni)-rich cathode materials (Li[NixCoyMn1-x-y]O-2, (NCMs)) of lithium ion batteries (LIBs) have displayed promising application potential due to the merits of stable structure, minor side reaction, and high energy density. The NixCoyMn1-x-y(OH)(2) as the precursor of single-crystal NCM faces the issues of tedious preparation process and serious pollutant emission for traditional preparation methods during the industrial preparation. Herein, an improved continuous two-step spray pyrolysis strategy is adopted to prepare the precursor of single-crystal NCM. Combining with the industrial devices, ton-scale preparation of single-crystal NCM is realized after dynamic lithiation post-treatment. This improved strategy not only shortens the preparation process, but also reduces metal segregation and sintering temperature, effectively balancing the cost control and production efficiency. The samples sintering at 850 degrees C show uniform morphology with a diameter of 4.5 mu m and delivers an initial discharge capacity of 169 mAh/g at 0.1 C after 100 cycles. This work provides a new route for the industrial preparation single-crystal NCM cathode materials of LIBs.