Review—Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges for Lithium Ion Battery Cathodes

Lithium ion batteries have become an integral part of our daily lives. Among a number of different cathode materials nickel-rich LiNi x Co y Mn z O 2 is particularly interesting. The material can deliver high capacities of ∼195 mAh g −1 putting it on the map for electric vehicles. With an increasing nickel content, a number of issues arise in the material limiting its performance. The Li/Ni mixing, highly reactive surface and formation of micro cracks are the most pressing ones. An overview of recent literature exploring these phenomena is herein summarized and were applicable solutions will be highlighted.