Synthesis and electrochemical properties of HT-LiCo0.8Ni0.2O2 prepared by molten salt synthesis method using 0.59LiNO3-0.41LiOH system

LiCo0.8Ni0.2O2 powders were prepared by molten salt synthesis method using a 0.59LiNO(3)-0.4lLiOH melt. The physico-chemical properties of the LiCo0.8Ni0.2O2, powders were investigated by powder X-ray diffraction method, field emission scanning electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and charge-discharge cycling. Uniform size nanocrystalline powder (similar to 40 nm) could be obtained at temperature ranges of 280-480 degreesC. These nanocrystalline powders showed poor electrochemical properties because of presence of the low temperature phase. Pure single-phase HT-LiCo0.8Ni0.2O2 powder could be obtained at 580 degreesC. Charge-discharge measurements indicated that this exhibited a good capacity and cyclability without further heat treatment at higher temperatures.