Li1.2Mn0.54Ni0.13Co0.13O2-Encapsulated Carbon Nanofiber Network Cathodes with Improved Stability and Rate Capability for Li-ion Batteries

Li1.2Mn0.54Ni0.13Co0.13O2-encapsulated carbon nanofiber network cathode materials were synthesized by a facile electrospinning method. The microstructures, morphologies and electrochemical properties are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), galvonostatic charge/discharge tests, cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), etc. The nanofiber decorated Li1.2Mn0.54Ni0.13Co0.13O2 electrode demonstrated higher coulombic efficiency of 83.5%, and discharge capacity of 263.7 mAh g(-1) at 1 C as well as higher stability compared to the pristine particle counterpart. The superior electrochemical performance results from the novel network structure which provides fast transport channels for electrons and lithium ions and the outer carbon acts a protection layer which prevents the inner oxides from reacting with HF in the electrolyte during charge-discharge cycling.