Synthesis and Electrochemical Properties of HT-LiCo_0.8Ni_0.2O₂ Prepared by Molten Salt Synthesis Method using 0.59LiNO₃-0.41LiOH System

LiCo_0.8Ni_0.2O₂ powders were prepared by molten salt synthesis method using a 0.59LiNO₃-0.41LiOH melt. The physico-chemical properties of the LiCo_0.8Ni_0.2O₂ powders were investigated by powder X-ray diffraction method, field emission scanning electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and charge-discharge cycling. Uniform size nanocrystalline powder (∼40 nm) could be obtained at temperature ranges of 280-480°C. These nanocrystalline powders showed poor electrochemical properties because of presence of the low temperature phase. Pure single-phase HT-LiCo_0.8Ni_0.2O₂ powder could be obtained at 580°C. Charge-discharge measurements indicated that this exhibited a good capacity and cyclability without further heat treatment at higher temperatures.