Synthesis of a nano B2O3:SnO2-coated Li-rich NMC cathode material and its cycling stability enhancement


Dalgıç H. İ., Şener A., SARAÇ M. F., Uzun E., Güler A., Güler M. O., ...More

Solid State Ionics, vol.441, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 441
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.ssi.2026.117182
  • Journal Name: Solid State Ionics
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Chemical Abstracts Core, Chimica, Compendex, INSPEC
  • Keywords: B2O3:SnO2coating, Cathode materials, Cycling stability, Electrochemical performance, Li-rich NMC
  • Süleyman Demirel University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Enhancing cycling stability in Li-rich NMC metal oxides is crucial for advancing the performance of Li-ion batteries, particularly in electric vehicle applications. This study investigates the synthesis and electrochemical properties of uncoated and B2O3:SnO2-coated Li1.2Mn0.54Ni0.13Co0.13O2 samples prepared by the sol-gel technique. Structural and morphological analyses confirm a hexagonal α-NaFeO2 structure with homogeneous coating layers averaging ∼10 nm in thickness. Electrochemical evaluations reveal that the B2O3:SnO2 coating significantly enhances cycling stability, achieving a capacity retention of 90.92% over 120 cycles at C/3 compared to 77.01% for the uncoated sample. While the first discharge specific capacity (236.58 mAh/g) of the coated sample was slightly lower than that of the uncoated sample (255.04 mAh/g), the coated sample demonstrated improved long-term stability, attributed to reduced side reactions and enhanced structural integrity. Rate performance tests also highlighted the coated sample's enhanced capacity retention, with a retention rate of 48.32% from C/5 to 3C, compared to 39.38% for the uncoated sample. These findings underscore the efficacy of the B2O3:SnO2 coating in mitigating degradation mechanisms, offering a viable pathway for developing high-performance cathodes with prolonged operational lifespans.