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High‐voltage cathodes improve the energy density of the batteries, which satisfies the pursuit of high‐energy‐density lithium metal batteries (LMBs). However, layered lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) cathodes suffer from severe interfacial side reactions under high voltage (4.6 V), which is detrimental for practical applications. Herein, a functional lithium salt, 2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐1‐piperidinyloxyl‐4‐sulfate lithium (TEMPO‐OSO3Li) is developed that possesses radical‐scavenging anion TEMPO‐OSO3−. The anion accumulates at the cathode interface and effectively scavenges free radicals under the electric field at high voltage, thereby, inhibiting the electrolyte decomposition and interfacial side reactions. As a result, the Li||LiCoO2 batteries with dual‐salt (TEMPO‐OSO3Li (0.02 m) and LiPF6 (1 m)) electrolyte exhibit high capacity retention of 92% after 100 cycles at 4.6 V and maintain 81% after 200 cycles, which is superior to that of the baseline electrolyte (26%). The work demonstrates a promising strategy for designing electrolyte salts to realize the practical application of LiCoO2 at high voltage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elevating the charging cut‐off voltage is an effective strategy to increase the energy density of LiCoO2. However, unstable interfacial structures and unfavorable phase transitions in bulk are inevitably triggered during deep de‐lithiation at high voltage. Herein, an integrated surface‐to‐bulk Ti‐modification strategy is applied to LiCoO2, enabling uniform Li2TiO3 coating on the surface and gradient Ti‐doping toward the structural bulk. The resultant Ti‐modified LiCoO2 (T‐LCO) electrode can be stably cycled up to 4.6 V, providing a high‐rate capability of 137 mAh g−1 at 5C and a long‐life stability with 80.5% capacity retention after 400 cycles at 1C, far outperforming the unmodified LiCoO2 electrode with only 50.7% capacity retention. In situ X‐ray diffraction characterization and density functional theory calculation reveal that the synergistic modification of T‐LCO enhances Li+ diffusion, facilitates the construction of high‐quality cathode/electrolyte interphase, reduces the phase transition from O3 to H1‐3 and Co3d/O2p band overlap, and restrains layer‐to‐spinel phase distortion, thus improving structural stability at 4.6 V. This work presents a “two birds one step” strategy to enhance the cycling stability and achievable capacity of high‐voltage LiCoO2 for developing high energy density lithium‐ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate modeling of lithium-ion battery (LIB) electrode microstructures provides essential references for understanding degradation mechanisms and optimizing materials. Traditional segmentation methods often struggle to accurately capture the complex microstructures of porous LIB electrodes in focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM) data. In this work, we develop a deep learning model based on the Swin Transformer to segment FIB-SEM data of a lithium cobalt oxide electrode, utilizing fused secondary and backscattered electron images. The proposed approach outperforms other deep learning methods, enabling the acquirement of 3D microstructure with reduced particle elongated artifacts. Analyses of the segmented microstructures reveal improved electrode tortuosity and pore connectivity crucial for ion and electron transport, emphasizing the necessity of accurate 3D modeling for reliable battery performance predictions. These results suggest a path toward voxel-level degradation analysis through more sensible battery simulation on high-fidelity microstructure models directly twinned from real porous electrodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) is considered an indispensable cathode material in the realm of consumer electronic batteries due to its high volumetric energy density. However, at a charging cut‐off voltage as high as 4.6 V, significant interfacial side reactions between LiCoO2 and the electrolyte occur, which adversely impact the battery's cycle performance. The surface‐related issues of LiCoO2 at high charge voltages not only constrain its utilization in conventional lithium‐ion batteries with liquid electrolytes but also limit its application in solid‐state batteries. Although traditional coating methods using inert inorganic compounds can partially alleviate this issue, their point‐like coatings fail to completely prevent the surface of LiCoO2 from direct contact with the electrolyte. The exploration of novel surface protection strategies for LiCoO2 remains imperative to address the associated challenges. Herein, introducing a sulfone‐based polymer electrolyte interface is proposed on the surface of LiCoO2 using methyl vinyl sulfone (MVS) through in situ polymerization. Remarkably, LiCoO2 with sulfone‐based polymer electrolyte interface exhibits a capacity retention rate of 83% after 500 cycles when employing a carbonate electrolyte without additives at a charge cut‐off voltage of 4.6 V. Furthermore, the LiCoO2 and polymer electrolyte interface exhibits exceptional cycle stability when paired with polyether solid electrolytes that do not possess high voltage tolerance. Moreover, the incorporation of a polymer electrolyte interface not only enhances the cycle stability of LiCoO2 but also improves its thermal stability. This work presents novel research perspectives for exploring high‐voltage stable LiCoO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reviews the synthesis and modification methods of lithium cobalt oxide, with a focus on the structural advantages of lithium cobalt oxide crystals compared to other cathode materials. Modification strategies include surface coating and bulk doping, each with 让s own merits, providing insights for the design of 1 让hium cobalt oxide materials with high capacity and high operating voltage・ Future directions in the modification research of 1 让hium cobalt oxide will involve more in-depth investigations and broader explorations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) is an irreplaceable cathode material for lithium‐ion batteries with high volumetric energy density. The prevailing O3 phase LiCoO2 adopts the ABCABC (A, B, and C stand for lattice sites in the close‐packed plane) stacking modes of close‐packed oxygen atoms. Currently, the focus of LiCoO2 development is application at high voltage (>4.55 V versus Li+/Li) to achieve a high specific capacity (>190 mAh g−1). However, cycled with a high cutoff voltage, O3–LiCoO2 suffers from rapid capacity decay. The causes of failure are mostly attributed to the irreversible transitions to H1‐3/O1 phase after deep delithiation and severe interfacial reactions with electrolytes. In addition to O3, LiCoO2 is also known to crystalize in an O2 phase with ABAC stacking. Since its discovery, little is known about the high‐voltage behavior of O2–LiCoO2. Herein, through systematic comparison between electrochemical performances of O3 and O2 LiCoO2 at high voltage, the significantly better stability of O2–LiCoO2 (>4.5 V) than that of O3–LiCoO2 in the same micro‐sized particle morphology is revealed. Combining various characterization techniques and multiscale simulation, the outstanding high‐voltage stability of O2–LiCoO2 is attributed to the high Li diffusivity and ideal mechanical properties. Uniform Li+ distribution and balanced internal stress loading may hold the key to improving the high‐voltage performance of LiCoO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Raising the cutoff voltage can efficiently increase the energy density of lithium cobalt oxide (LCO). However, upon charging over 4.55 V the LCO undergoes irreversible phase transition from the pristine O3 phase to the metastable H1‐3 phases, causing serious side reactions, which results in poor cycling stability. Herein, a multifunctional aqueous composite binder derived from the cross‐linking of fucoidan (FUC) and polyacrylamide (PAM) is developed to enhance the stability of LCO cathode at 4.6 V. The cross‐linking interaction of FUC and PAM provides a uniform coating on the surface of LCO and ensures a high peel strength for the electrode, effectively mitigating irreversible phase transition and detrimental interface side reactions. More importantly, the sulfur ester and amide groups of FUC‐PAM favorably function as surface charge compensators to the high valent Co upon charging under high voltages, thus stabilizes the surface lattice of LCO and suppresses the detrimental oxygen release. As expected, the LCO with a cutoff voltage of 4.6 V exhibits a high capacity retention of 90% after 100 cycles at a current density of 110 mA g−1. The interfacial coordination effect of composite binders offers a novel strategy to enhance the stability of high‐voltage LCO for high‐energy lithium‐ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) and graphite-based Li-ion batteries have been widely applied for consumer electronics because of the long cycle life and easy preparation. However, the limited capacity for traditional materials hampers the practical application for high energy-density battery. Conventional electrolyte system could not satisfy the need for high-capacity materials. Here, methylene methanedisulfonate (MMDS) was chosen as electrolyte additive for enhancing the available capacity for LiCoO2 and graphite-based battery. The effect of MMDS on the LiCoO2 cathode and graphite anode was investigated via multi electrochemical methods. It was found that the capacity for cells with MMDS electrolyte additive increases (from 142.6 mAh g−1 for pristine to 193.4 mAh g−1 on LiCoO2/Li battery, from 275.5 mAh g−1 for pristine to 407.0 mAh g−1 on graphite/Li battery). The experimental results indicate that improved capacity by MMDS electrolyte additive can be attributable to the stabilized interface on both cathode and anode sides, leading to superior interfacial Li+ kinetics and mitigated bulk structural degradation, which was further confirmed by the ex-situ electrochemical and structural characterization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calender process is important to improve the mechanical and electrochemical properties of cathode materials. To explore pressure effect on structure and resistance of electrode powder, the morphology and surface area of lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) powder under different pressure are investigated. Meanwhile, the real‐time stress, density, and conductivity of LCO powder upon compaction are tested by a self‐made detection system. Moreover, the battery performance of LCO powder after compaction is compared in coin cells. This work elucidates the relationship between compaction density, powder resistance, and electrochemical performance of cathode materials for lithium‐ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lithium-ion battery (LIB) thermal runaway (TR) emits a wide size range of particles with diverse chemical compositions. When inhaled, these particles can cause serious adverse health effects. This study measured the size distributions of particles with diameters less than 10 µm released throughout the TR-driven combustion of cylindrical lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and pouch-style lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) LIB cells. The chemical composition of fine particles (PM2.5) and some acidic gases were also characterized from filter samples. The emission factors of particle number and mass as well as chemical components were calculated. Particle number concentrations were dominated by those smaller than 500 nm with geometric number mean diameters below 130 nm. Mass concentrations were also dominated by smaller particles, with PM1 particles making up 81–95% of the measured PM10 mass. A significant amount of organic and elemental carbon, phosphate, and fluoride was released as PM2.5 constituents. The emission factor of gaseous hydrogen fluoride was 10–81 mg/Wh, posing the most immediate danger to human health. The tested LFP cells had higher emission factors of particles and HF than the LCO cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium cobalt oxide is a convenient model material for the vast family of cathode materials with a layered structure and still retains some commercial perspectives for microbatteries and some other applications. In this work, we have used ab initio calculations, x-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and a theoretical physical model, based on quasi-harmonic approximation with anharmonic contributions of the three-phonon and four-phonon processes, to study a temperature-induced change of Raman spectra for LiCoO2. The obtained values of shift and broadening for Eg and A1g bands can be used for quantitative characterization of temperature change, for example, due to laser-induced heating during Raman spectra measurements. The theoretical analysis of the experimental results lets us conclude that Raman spectra changes for LiCoO2 can be explained by the combination of thermal expansion of the crystal lattice and phonon damping by anharmonic coupling with comparable contributions of the three-phonon and four-phonon processes. The obtained results can be further used to develop Raman-based quality control tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A nitrogen-doped porous phosphorus sphere features fast and robust ion-transport-pathways during lithiation/de-lithiation, delivering high-rate-capacity of 735 mAh g−1 at 20 A g−1 in half-cells and capacity-retention exceeding 90% after 200 cycles at 2 mA cm−2 in full-cells. [Display omitted] Phosphorus anode has shown great potential for the high-rate and high-energy–density lithium-ion batteries. Nevertheless, it still suffers from possible electrode cracking, ion-transport restrictions, and active-particle decomposition resulting from repeated alloying/de-alloying. To address the aforementioned issues, a nitrogen-doped flower-like porous phosphorus (f-P) sphere has been developed. The abundant micro-mesopores facilitate ion diffusion and enhance the internal bonding strength of the electrode. Concurrently, the doped nitrogen promotes the generation of a favorable solid electrolyte interphase constructed by fast-ion-conductors. As a result, the f-P exhibits a high-rate capacity of 735mAh g−1 at 20 A g−1 and maintains high Coulombic efficiencies over 900 cycles at 10 A g−1. Furthermore, coin full-cells comprising the f-P anode and lithium cobalt oxide cathode demonstrate stable operation at a high current density of 6 mA cm−2. The combination of a porous structure and doping strategy represents a viable approach for strengthening the durability of electrodes and optimizing the ion transport kinetics of advanced alloy anode materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low temperature has been a major challenge for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) to maintain satisfied electrochemical performance, and the main reason is the deactivation of electrolyte with the decreasing temperature. To address this point, in present work, we develop a low‐temperature resistant electrolyte which includes ethyl acetate (EA) and fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) as solvent and lithium difluoro(oxalato)borate (LiDFOB) as the primary lithium salt. Due to the preferential decomposition of LiDFOB and FEC, a solid electrolyte interface rich in LiF is formed on the lithium metal anodes (LMAs) and lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) cathodes, contributing to higher stability and rapid desolvation of Li+ ions. The batteries with the optimized electrolyte can undergo cycling tests at −40 °C, with a capacity retention of 83.9 % after 200 cycles. Furthermore, the optimized electrolyte exhibits excellent compatibility with both LCO cathodes and graphite (Gr) anodes, enabling a Gr/LCO battery to maintain a capacity retention of 90.3 % after multiple cycles at −25 °C. This work proposes a cost‐effective electrolyte that can activate potential LIBs in practical scenarios, especially in low‐temperature environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal runaway (TR) considerably restricts the applications of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and the development of renewable energy sources, thus causing safety issues and economic losses. In the current study, the staged TR characteristics of three LIBs are examined using a self-built experimental platform and cone calorimeter. The results indicate that the TR of the ternary lithium and lithium cobalt batteries successively underwent the following stages: smoke production, swelling, bursting and combustion. By contrast, the lithium iron phosphate battery experiences smoulder instead of combustion during TR process. The TR time of the ternary lithium, lithium cobalt oxide and lithium iron phosphate batteries are 728 s, 689 s and 849 s, and the critical temperatures are 260.02 °C, 240.84 °C and 290.88 °C, respectively. Moreover, the lithium cobalt oxide battery has the largest heat release of 0.027 MJ m-2, the ternary lithium battery presents the most mass loss rate of 0.75 g s-1, and the lithium iron phosphate battery produced the largest smoke, CO and CO2 during the TR process. These results reveal the safety and stability of three LIBs and can be beneficial for studies on the proactive process safety and potential hazard prevention of LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the ultrasound-assisted leaching of Li and Co from spent batteries using a deep eutectic solvent (DES) composed of polyethylene glycol and thiourea. The synergistic effect of ultrasound and DESs was explored to enhance the efficiency of Li and Co recovery. The experimental results demonstrated that ultrasound significantly accelerates the leaching process, achieving up to four times higher recovery rates compared to traditional methods. Optimal leaching conditions were identified at a solid-to-liquid ratio of 0.02 g/g, a temperature of 160 °C, and periodic ultrasound exposure. Under these conditions, the leaching efficiency reached 74% for Li and 71% for Co within 24 h. A kinetic analysis revealed that the ultrasound application shifts the rate-limiting step from a mixed control of mass transfer and chemical reactions to predominantly chemical reaction control, reducing the activation energy by approximately 27%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the behavior of pressure increases in lithium-ion (Li-ion) cells is essential for prolonging the lifespan of Li-ion battery cells and minimizing the safety risks associated with cell aging. This work investigates the effects of C-rates and temperature on pressure behavior in commercial lithium cobalt oxide (LCO)/graphite pouch cells. The battery is volumetrically constrained, and the mechanical pressure response is measured using a force gauge as the battery is cycled. The effect of the C-rate (1C, 2C, and 3C) and ambient temperature (10 °C, 25 °C, and 40 °C) on the increase in battery pressure is investigated. By analyzing the change in the minimum, maximum, and pressure difference per cycle, we identify and discuss the effects of different factors (i.e., SEI layer damage, electrolyte decomposition, lithium plating) on the pressure behavior. Operating at high C-rates or low temperatures rapidly increases the residual pressure as the battery is cycled. The results suggest that lithium plating is predominantly responsible for battery expansion and pressure increase during the cycle aging of Li-ion cells rather than electrolyte decomposition. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements can support our conclusions. Postmortem analysis of the aged cells was performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) to confirm the occurrence of lithium plating and film growth on the anodes of the aged cells. This study demonstrates that pressure measurements can provide insights into the aging mechanisms of Li-ion batteries and can be used as a reliable predictor of battery degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium-ion batteries (LIB) pose a safety risk due to their high specific energy density and toxic ingredients. Fire caused by LIB thermal runaway (TR) can be catastrophic within enclosed spaces where emission ventilation or occupant evacuation is challenging or impossible. The fine smoke particles (PM2.5) produced during a fire can deposit in deep parts of the lung and trigger various adverse health effects. This study characterizes the chemical composition of PM2.5 released from TR-driven combustion of cylindrical lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and pouch-style lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) LIB cells. Emissions from cell venting and flaming combustion were measured in real time and captured by filter assemblies for subsequent analyses of organic and elemental carbon (OC and EC), elements, and water-soluble ions. The most abundant PM2.5 constituents were OC, EC, phosphate (PO43−), and fluoride (F−), contributing 7–91%, 0.2–40%, 1–44%, and 0.7–3% to the PM2.5 mass, respectively. While OC was more abundant during cell venting, EC and PO43− were more abundant when flaming combustion occurred. These freshly emitted particles were acidic. Overall, particles from LFP tests had higher OM but lower EC compared to LCO tests, consistent with the higher thermal stability of LFP cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Raising the charging voltage and employing high‐capacity cathodes like lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) are efficient strategies to expand battery capacity. High voltage, however, will reveal major issues such as the electrolyte's low interface stability and weak electrochemical stability. Designing high‐performance solid electrolytes from the standpoint of substance genetic engineering design is consequently vital. In this instance, stable SEI and CEI interface layers are constructed, and a 4.7 V high‐voltage solid copolymer electrolyte (PAFP) with a fluoro‐cyanogen group is generated by polymer molecular engineering. As a result, PAFP has an exceptionally broad electrochemical window (5.5 V), a high Li+ transference number (0.71), and an ultrahigh ionic conductivity (1.2 mS cm−2) at 25 °C. Furthermore, the Li||Li symmetric cell possesses excellent interface stability and 2000 stable cycles at 1 mA cm−2. The LCO|PAFP|Li batteries have a 73.7% retention capacity after 1200 cycles. Moreover, it still has excellent cycling stability at a high charging voltage of 4.7 V. These characteristics above also allow PAFP to run stably at high loading, showing excellent electrochemical stability. Furthermore, the proposed PAFP provides new insights into high‐voltage resistant solid polymer electrolytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: FGN-182 electrolytes exhibit highly reversible Li plating/stripping with an average Coulombic efficiency reaching up to 99.56% determined from Auerbach's test. The gas-evolution process of LiNO3 in high-voltage lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) cathodes is revealed by in situ differential electrochemical mass spectrometry. Pouch cells equipped with high-loading LCO (3 mAh cm−2) cathodes, ultrathin Li chips (25 μm), and lean electrolytes (5 g Ah−1) using optimized electrolyte (FGN-182 + 1%HTCN) demonstrate outstanding cycling performance. The lithium (Li) metal anode is widely regarded as an ideal anode material for high-energy-density batteries. However, uncontrolled Li dendrite growth often leads to unfavorable interfaces and low Coulombic efficiency (CE), limiting its broader application. Herein, an ether-based electrolyte (termed FGN-182) is formulated, exhibiting ultra-stable Li metal anodes through the incorporation of LiFSI and LiNO3 as dual salts. The synergistic effect of the dual salts facilitates the formation of a highly robust SEI film with fast Li+ transport kinetics. Notably, Li||Cu half cells exhibit an average CE reaching up to 99.56%. In particular, pouch cells equipped with high-loading lithium cobalt oxide (LCO, 3 mAh cm−2) cathodes, ultrathin Li chips (25 μm), and lean electrolytes (5 g Ah−1) demonstrate outstanding cycling performance, retaining 80% capacity after 125 cycles. To address the gas issue in the cathode under high voltage, cathode additives 1,3,6-tricyanohexane is incorporated with FGN-182; the resulting high-voltage LCO||Li (4.4 V) pouch cells can cycle steadily over 93 cycles. This study demonstrates that, even with the use of ether-based electrolytes, it is possible to simultaneously achieve significant improvements in both high Li utilization and electrolyte tolerance to high voltage by exploring appropriate functional additives for both the cathode and anode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building a multifunctional Li/Na-B-Mg-Si-O-F-rich hybrid ion/electron interface network on 4.65 V LCO enables reversible Co/O redox, excellent interface stability, and fast-charging Cyclability. [Display omitted] High-voltage and fast-charging LiCoO 2 (LCO) is key to high-energy/power-density Li-ion batteries. However, unstable surface structure and unfavorable electronic/ionic conductivity severely hinder its high-voltage fast-charging cyclability. Here, we construct a Li/Na-B-Mg-Si-O-F-rich mixed ion/electron interface network on the 4.65 V LCO electrode to enhance its rate capability and long-term cycling stability. Specifically, the resulting artificial hybrid conductive network enhances the reversible conversion of Co3+/4+/O2−/n− redox by the interfacial ion–electron cooperation and suppresses interface side reactions, inducing an ultrathin yet compact cathode electrolyte interphase. Simultaneously, the derived near-surface Na+/Mg2+/Si4+-pillared local intercalation structure greatly promotes the Li+ diffusion around the 4.55 V phase transition and stabilizes the cathode interface. Finally, excellent 3 C (1 C = 274 mA g−1) fast charging performance is demonstrated with 73.8% capacity retention over 1000 cycles. Our findings shed new insights to the fundamental mechanism of interfacial ion/electron synergy in stabilizing and enhancing fast-charging cathode materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Shanghai Polytechnic University is the property of Journal of Shanghai Polytechnic University Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The worldwide proliferation of portable electronics has resulted in a dramatic increase in the number of spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, traditional recycling methods still have limitations because of such huge amounts of spent LIBs. Therefore, we proposed an ecofriendly and sustainable double recycling strategy to concurrently reuse the cathode (LiCoO2) and anode (graphite) materials of spent LIBs and recycled LiCoPO4/graphite (RLCPG) in Li+/PF6− co-de/intercalation dual-ion batteries. The recycle-derived dual-ion batteries of Li/RLCPG show impressive electrochemical performance, with an appropriate discharge capacity of 86.2 mAh·g−1 at 25 mA·g−1 and 69% capacity retention after 400 cycles. Dual recycling of the cathode and anode from spent LIBs avoids wastage of resources and yields cathode materials with excellent performance, thereby offering an ecofriendly and sustainable way to design novel secondary batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium-ion batteries, a primary power source, generate electronic hazardous waste at the end of their lifespan, which is a richer source of highly concentrated metals such as cobalt and lithium than those in natural resources. The waste is a potential renewable resource for the extraction of metals. Bioleaching, a process utilizing microbial activity, was used in this study to investigate the cobalt and lithium leaching efficiency from battery wastes. Two fungal strains, Aspergillus sp. strain JMET 15 and Penicillium sp. strain JMET 24 were used with different organic carbon sources (sucrose medium and potato dextrose broth) at 1 % pulp density. The sucrose medium derived a higher acid quantity and leached higher concentration of cobalt and lithium than in potato dextrose broth. Leaching efficiency by JMET 24 was higher than JMET 15. Cobalt (32.57 % and 27.19 %) and lithium (65.07 % and 40.58 %) were bioleached by JMET 24 and JMET 15, respectively, after 30 d cultivation in the sucrose medium. Lower pulp density was conducted to achieved higher leaching efficiency by JMET24, cobalt (77.87 % and 74.5 %) and lithium (99.88 % and 78.4 %) were bioleached at 0.1 % and 0.5 % pulp density, respectively. Cobalt oxide (Co3O4) was the product of the one-step recovery (leaching and precipitation) process. Cobalt was transformed from lithium cobalt oxide to cobalt phosphate-oxalate by JMET 24 in the sucrose medium. Thus, the potential of bioleaching as an effective method for recovering valuable metals from lithium-ion battery waste is demonstrated, presenting a promising approach for both waste management and resource recovery.

The poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) solid polymer electrolytes suffer from narrow electrochemical stability window and cannot match high voltage lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) cathode. Herein, an ultrathin Al2O3 nanolayer was uniformly deposited on the surface of LCO via powder atomic layer deposition (PALD) to realize poly (ethylene oxide) polymer electrolyte cycling stability. The PEO solid polymer electrolyte contains 20 % (w/w) lithium difluoro(oxalate)borate (LiDFOB) and 7.5 % (w/w) lithium titanium aluminum phosphate (LATP) with cellulose nonwoven as a support substrate. The electrolyte exhibitsionic conductivity of 1.2×10−4 S cm−1, an electrochemical stability window of 4.5 V (vs. Li+/Li) and lithium-ion transference number of 0.38. Al2O3@LCO/PEO-LiDFOB20%-LATP7.5%/Li cell at high cut-off 4.5 V delivered better initial discharge specific capacity of 178.5 mAh g−1 and achieved a capacity retention ratio of 81.6 % after 200 cycles under 0.1 C at 50 °C. Further analysis showed that Al2O3 layer served as stable a protective layer to suppress the generation of strong oxidative Co4+ and O– species and separate from the PEO solid polymer electrolyte, inhibiting the side reactions at the cathode-side interface. Therefore, architecting precise and ultrathin protective nanolayer interface on high voltage LCO cathode via PALD is conducive to cycling performance of solid polymer electrolyte.

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) with the “double-high” characteristics of high energy density and high power density are in urgent demand for facilitating the development of advanced portable electronics. However, the lithium ion (Li+)-storage performance of the most commercialized lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2, LCO) cathodes is still far from satisfactory in terms of high-voltage and fast-charging capabilities for reaching the double-high target. Herein, we systematically summarize and discuss high-voltage and fast-charging LCO cathodes, covering in depth the key fundamental challenges, latest advancements in modification strategies, and future perspectives in this field. Comprehensive and elaborated discussions are first presented on key fundamental challenges related to structural degradation, interfacial instability, the inhomogeneity reactions, and sluggish interfacial kinetics. We provide an instructive summary of deep insights into promising modification strategies and underlying mechanisms, categorized into element doping (Li-site, cobalt-/oxygen-site, and multi-site doping) for improved Li+ diffusivity and bulk-structure stability; surface coating (dielectrics, ionic/electronic conductors, and their combination) for surface stability and conductivity; nanosizing; combinations of these strategies; and other strategies (i.e., optimization of the electrolyte, binder, tortuosity of electrodes, charging protocols, and pre-lithiation methods). Finally, forward-looking perspectives and promising directions are sketched out and insightfully elucidated, providing constructive suggestions and instructions for designing and realizing high-voltage and fast-charging LCO cathodes for next-generation double-high LIBs.

Lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) has been widely used as a leading cathode material for lithium-ion batteries in consumer electronics. However, unstable cathode electrolyte interphase (CEI) and undesired phase transitions during fast Li+ diffusivity always incur an inferior stability of the high-voltage LCO (HV-LCO). Here, an ultra-thin amorphous titanium dioxide (TiO2) coating layer engineered on LCO by an atomic layer deposition (ALD) strategy is demonstrated to improve the high-rate and long-cycling properties of the HV-LCO cathode. Benefitting from the uniform TiO2 protective layer, the Li+ storage properties of the modified LCO obtained after 50 ALD cycles (LCO-ALD50) are significantly improved. The results show that the average Li+ diffusion coefficient is nearly tripled with a high-rate capability of 125 mAh g−1 at 5C. An improved cycling stability with a high-capacity retention (86.7%) after 300 cycles at 1C is also achieved, far outperforming the bare LCO (37.9%). The in situ XRD and ex situ XPS results demonstrate that the dense and stable CEI induced by the surface TiO2 coating layer buffers heterogenous lithium flux insertion during cycling and prevents electrolyte, which contributes to the excellent cycling stability of LCO-ALD50. This work reveals the mechanism of surface protection by transition metal oxides coating and facilitates the development of long-life HV-LCO electrodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Electrochemistry is the property of Journal of Electrochemistry Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

While electric vehicles (EVs) offer lower life cycle greenhouse gas emissions in some regions, the concern over the greenhouse gas emissions generated during battery production is often debated. This literature review examines the true environmental trade-offs between conventional lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and emerging technologies such as solid-state batteries (SSBs) and sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). It emphasizes the carbon-intensive nature of LIB manufacturing and explores how alternative technologies can enhance efficiency while reducing the carbon footprint. We have used a keyword search technique to review articles related to batteries and their environmental performances. The study results reveal that the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of battery production alone range from 10 to 394 kgCO2 eq./kWh. We identified that lithium manganese cobalt oxide and lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide batteries, despite their high energy density, exhibit higher GHGs (20–394 kgCO2 eq./kWh) because of the cobalt and nickel production. Lithium iron phosphate (34–246 kgCO2 eq./kWh) and sodium-ion (40–70 kgCO2 eq./kWh) batteries showed lower environmental impacts because of the abundant feedstock, emerging as a sustainable choice, especially when high energy density is not essential. This review also concludes that the GHGs of battery production are highly dependent on the regional grid carbon intensity. Batteries produced in China, for example, have higher GHGs than those produced in the United States (US) and European Union (EU). Understanding the GHGs of battery production is critical to fairly evaluating the environmental impact of battery electric vehicles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: This review systematically summarizes the source of electricity, the key choice of catalyst, and the potentiality of electrolyte for prospective hydrogen generation. Each section provides comprehensive overview, detailed comparison and obvious advantages in these system configurations. The problems of hydrogen generation from electrolytic water splitting and directions of next-generation green hydrogen in the future are discussed and outlooked. Direct regeneration method has been widely concerned by researchers in the field of battery recycling because of its advantages of in situ regeneration, short process and less pollutant emission. In this review, we firstly analyze the primary causes for the failure of three representative battery cathodes (lithium iron phosphate, layered lithium transition metal oxide and lithium cobalt oxide), targeting at illustrating their underlying regeneration mechanism and applicability. Efficient stripping of material from the collector to obtain pure cathode material has become a first challenge in recycling, for which we report several pretreatment methods currently available for subsequent regeneration processes. We review and discuss emphatically the research progress of five direct regeneration methods, including solid-state sintering, hydrothermal, eutectic molten salt, electrochemical and chemical lithiation methods. Finally, the application of direct regeneration technology in production practice is introduced, the problems exposed at the early stage of the industrialization of direct regeneration technology are revealed, and the prospect of future large-scale commercial production is proposed. It is hoped that this review will give readers a comprehensive and basic understanding of direct regeneration methods for used lithium-ion batteries and promote the industrial application of direct regeneration technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We demonstrate that an ionic liquid 1-ethyl-1-methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide combined with propylene carbonate and lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide yields a hybrid electrolyte that enables a wide operational temperature window (−20 °C to 60 °C). When integrated into a lithium titanate‖lithium cobalt oxide full-cell configuration, high-rate capability is achieved at −20 °C with >40% retention at a C/2 cycling rate, and negligible capacity fade is observed during rate capability tests and long-term cycling at 60 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) has been employed as cathode material for 40 years. However, the low solubility of LCOs in water and strong electrostatic force and H-bonding between the LCOs particles limited the use of the aqueous binders in the LCO system. We report a feasible and universal approach to fabricating a complex cathode of LCO and reduced graphene oxide (RGO). Tannic acid (TA) could simultaneously disperse LCO and RGO particles. Meanwhile, the branched polyphenol TA acts as a 'bridge' molecule for connecting the LCO and RGO, confirmed by the SEM test. The rheology properties of the PVDF slurry of cathode materials (LCO, LCO/, RGO, and TA/LCO/RGO) were also determined. It could be found that the TA could act as a crosslinking agent for the LCO and RGO particles, increasing the viscosity and storage modulus of the slurry. The cell employed the TA/LCO/RGO slurry as the cathode material, have a higher areal capacity, and had a higher redox potential than employed LCO/RGO and LCO as cathode materials, all of which could be attributed to the addition of the TA. This green molecule can be used to fabricate environmentally friendly and possibly biodegradable electrochemical energy storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrolyte is critical for transporting lithium‐ion (Li+) in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, there is no universally applicable principle for designing an optimal electrolyte. In most cases, the design process relies on empirical experiences and is often treated as highly confidential proprietary information. Herein, a solvation structure‐related model for the quantitative design of electrolytes is introduced, focusing on the principles of coordination chemistry. As a paradigmatic example, a high‐voltage electrolyte (i.e., 4.5 V vs anode) aimed at achieving a high energy density and fast charging LIB, which is specifically composed of an emerging, well‐constructed hybrid hard carbon‐silicon/carbon‐based anode, and lithium cobalt oxide cathode, is developed. Not only the functions of each electrolyte component at the molecular scale within the Li+ solvation structure are analyzed but also an interfacial model is introduced to elucidate their relationship with the battery performance. This study represents a pioneering effort in developing a methodology to guide electrolyte design, in which the mutual effects of the Li+ de‐solvation process and solid electrolyte interface (SEI) on the electrode surface are explored concurrently to understand the root cause of superior performance. This innovative approach establishes a new paradigm in electrolyte design, providing valuable insights at the molecular level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrolyte concentration not only impacts the battery performance but also affects the battery cost and manufacturing. Currently, most studies focus on high‐concentration (>3 M) or localized high‐concentration electrolytes (~1 M); however, the expensive lithium salt imposes a major concern. Most recently, ultralow concentration electrolytes (<0.3 M) have emerged as intriguing alternatives for battery applications, which feature low cost, low viscosity, and extreme‐temperature operation. However, at such an early development stage, many works are urgently needed to further understand the electrolyte properties. Herein, we introduce an ultralow concentration electrolyte of 2 wt % (0.16 M) lithium difluoro(oxalato)borate (LiDFOB) in standard carbonate solvents. This electrolyte exhibits a record‐low salt/solvent mass ratio reported to date, thus pointing to a superior low cost. Furthermore, this electrolyte is highly compatible with commercial Li‐ion materials, forming stable and inorganic‐rich interphases on the lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) cathode and graphite anode. Consequently, the LiCoO2‐graphite full cell demonstrates excellent cycling performance. Besides, this electrolyte is moisture‐resistant and effectively suppresses the generation of hydrogen fluoride, which will markedly facilitate the battery assembly and recycling process under ambient conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to its high self-heat rate, most researchers have avoided using lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) in their work, although, major car companies use it to power some car models because of its high-power density. A thermal management system benefits from phase change material (PCM) and serves as a reliable cooling system to ensure the safety, performance, and lifespan of Li-ion batteries. In this study, we conducted an experimental investigation of a new hybrid battery thermal management system (BTMS) using PCM combined with aluminum fins and forced air to enhance the cooling performance of Liion battery type 18 650 LiCoO2. Furthermore, the hybrid model's thermal behaviors are compared with other models that use only air or PCM for cooling. The cooling performance of different BTMS models was tested under a high temperature of 40°C and various discharge rates, as well as, various air velocities. The results demonstrate that the hybrid model effectively minimizes the battery heat accumulation and can reduce the maximum operating temperature by 1.5°C, 5.5°C, and 9.5°C compared to the air-cooling model and by 2.8°C, 5.1°C, and 16.1°C compared to the PCM model for discharge of 1C, 2C, and 3C rates, respectively. Furthermore, the maximum temperature difference within the battery pack did not surpass 3.1°C with our hybrid model. Moreover, the use of our model has a significant advantage in minimizing the air-cooling power consumption by 89%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All-solid-state batteries using Si as the anode have shown promising performance without continual solid-electrolyte interface (SEI) growth. However, the first cycle irreversible capacity loss yields low initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) of Si, limiting the energy density. To address this, we adopt a prelithiation strategy to increase ICE and conductivity of all-solid-state Si cells. A significant increase in ICE is observed for Li1Si anode paired with a lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) cathode. Additionally, a comparison with lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NCM) reveals that performance improvements with Si prelithiation is only applicable for full cells dominated by high anode irreversibility. With this prelithiation strategy, 15% improvement in capacity retention is achieved after 1000 cycles compared to a pure Si. With Li1Si, a high areal capacity of up to 10 mAh cm–2 is attained using a dry-processed LCO cathode film, suggesting that the prelithiation method may be suitable for high-loading next-generation all-solid-state batteries. All-solid-state batteries with silicon anodes have high capacities but low initial coulombic efficiencies (ICEs) because of first cycle irreversible capacity loss. Here, the authors report a prelithiation strategy to improve ICEs and reversibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and plastics are pivotal components of modern society; nevertheless, their escalating production poses formidable challenges to resource sustainability and ecosystem integrity. Here, we showcase the transformation of spent lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) cathodes into photothermal catalysts capable of catalyzing the upcycling of diverse waste polyesters into high-value monomers. The distinctive Li deficiency in spent LCO induces a contraction in the Co−O6 unit cell, boosting the monomer yield exceeding that of pristine LCO by a factor of 10.24. A comprehensive life-cycle assessment underscores the economic viability of utilizing spent LCO as a photothermal catalyst, yielding returns of 129.6 $·kgLCO−1, surpassing traditional battery recycling returns (13–17 $·kgLCO−1). Solar-driven recycling 100,000 tons of PET can reduce 3.459 × 1011 kJ of electric energy and decrease 38,716 tons of greenhouse gas emissions. This work unveils a sustainable solution for the management of spent LIBs and plastics. The increasing production of lithium-ion batteries and plastics presents significant challenges to resource sustainability and ecosystem integrity. This study highlights the utilization of spent lithium cobalt oxide cathodes as photothermal catalysts to transform various waste polyesters into valuable monomers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapidly increasing amount of spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) requires recycling technology with higher economic and environmental efficiency, while current hydrometallurgical recycling strategies usually consume large amounts of inorganic acids and reducing agents without reusability of the leachate due to the addition of precipitants. Herein, we report a precipitant-free and closed-loop strategy for recycling lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) where the extraction of metal elements from dissolved leachate is realized by dynamically regulating the solubility product (Ksp). A choline chloride : oxalic acid (ChCl : OA) type deep eutectic solvent (DES) has been demonstrated as the leachant while the cobalt and lithium can be recovered by either controlling the complexing process or cooling, thus achieving controlled precipitation of elements without adding precipitants, and thereby maintaining the structure of the leachate to the largest extent and realizing reusability. The strategy based on the dynamic regulation of Ksp is expected to provide a general method for designing a reusable leachant for the hydrometallurgical recycling of the electrodes of spent LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accelerated charging of lithium-ion cells is proposed as a case study that will facilitate the integration of several fundamental electrochemical concepts learned during a dedicated electrochemistry course. Lithium-ion cells are ubiquitous to our everyday life, and their presence will become even more pervading with the increase in number of electric vehicles and the wider penetration of renewable energy sources in our energy matrix. In this context, understanding conventional and fast charging of lithium ion cells and most importantly being able to relate the limitations of the charging process to fundamental electrochemical phenomena at the interphase level are key. By testing the charge and discharge of graphite/lithium cobalt oxide single cells at different C rates, a large array of experimental data is generated which will trigger the discussion. The applied current is interpreted as the imposed kinetics on the system. The voltage vs. time profiles are highly dependent on the applied current. Surprisingly, whilst during the CV regime the same voltage value is applied in all experiments, the resulting current vs. time profiles are different for experiments at varying C rates. The different profiles are interpreted in terms of activation, diffusion, and concentration overpotentials. The kinetics related both to electrochemical reactions and mass transport phenomena limit the maximum current that can be imposed to the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High‐efficacy recycling of spent lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) batteries is one of the key tasks in realizing a global resource security strategy due to the rareness of lithium (Li) and cobalt (Co) resources. However, it is of great significance to develop the innovative recycle methods for spent LiCoO2, simultaneously realizing the efficient recovery of valuable elements and the regeneration of high‐performance LiCoO2. Herein, a novel strategy of regenerating LiCoO2 cathode is proposed, which involves the preparation of micro‐spherical aluminum (Al)‐doped lithium‐lacked precursor (Li2xCo1−x−yAl2/3yCO3, remarked as "PLCAC") via ammonium bicarbonate coprecipitation. The comprehensive conditions affecting particle growth kinetics, morphology and particle size the has been investigated in detail by physical characterizations and electrochemical measurements. And the optimized Al‐doped LiCoO2 materials with high‐density sphericity (LiCo1−zAlzO2, remarked as "LCAO") shows a high initial specific capacity of 161 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C and excellent capacity retention of 99.5 % within 100 cycles at 1 C in the voltage range of 2.8 to 4.3 V. Our work provides valuable insights into the featured design of LiCoO2 precursors and cathode materials from spent LiCoO2 batteries, potentially guaranteeing the high‐efficacy recycling and utilization of strategic resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The selection and design of new electrode materials for energy conversion and storage are critical for improved performance, cost reduction, and mass manufacturing. A bifunctional anode with high catalytic activity and extended cycle stability is crucial for rechargeable lithium‐ion batteries and direct borohydride fuel cells. Herein, a high entropy novel three‐dimensional structured electrode with Pr‐doped hollow NiFeP nanoflowers inlaid on N‐rGO was prepared via a simple hydrothermal and self‐assembly process. For optimization of Pr content, three (0.1, 0.5, and 0.8) different doping ratios were investigated. A lithium‐ion battery assembled with NiPr0.5FeP/N‐rGO electrode achieved an outstanding specific capacity of 1.61 Ah g−1 at 0.2 A g−1 after 100 cycles with 99.3 % Coulombic efficiencies. A prolonged cycling stability of 1.02 Ah g−1 was maintained even after 1000 cycles at 0.5 A g−1. In addition, a full cell battery with NiPr0.5FeP/N‐rGO∥LCO (Lithium cobalt oxide) delivered a promising cycling performance of 0.52 Ah g−1 after 200 cycles at 0.15 A g−1. Subsequently, the NiPr0.5FeP/N‐rGO electrode in a direct borohydride fuel cell showed the highest peak power density of 93.70 mW cm−2 at 60 °C. Therefore, this work can be extended to develop advanced electrode for next‐generation energy storage and conversion systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of high‐energy‐density Li||LiCoO2 batteries is severely limited by the instability of cathode electrolyte interphase (CEI) at high voltage and high temperature. Here we propose a mechanically and thermally stable CEI by electrolyte designing for achieving the exceptional performance of Li||LiCoO2 batteries at 4.6 V and 70 °C. 2,4,6‐tris(3,4,5‐trifluorophenyl)boroxin (TTFPB) as the additive could preferentially enter into the first shell structure of PF6− solvation and be decomposed on LiCoO2 surface at low oxidation potential to generate a LiBxOy‐rich/LiF‐rich CEI. The LiBxOy surface layer effectively maintained the integrity of CEI and provided excellent mechanical and thermal stability while abundant LiF in CEI further improved the thermal stability and homogeneity of CEI. Such CEI drastically alleviated the crack and regeneration of CEI and irreversible phase transformation of the cathode. As expected, the Li||LiCoO2 batteries with the tailored CEI achieved 91.9 % and 74.0 % capacity retention after 200 and 150 cycles at 4.6 and 4.7 V, respectively. Moreover, such batteries also delivered an unprecedented high‐temperature performance with 73.6 % capacity retention after 100 cycles at 70 °C and 4.6 V. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the ability of a choline chloride:ethylene glycol‐based deep eutectic solvent (DES) to dissolve lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) which is used as a cathode active material in Li‐ion batteries. Both a commercial powder and spent cathodes have been used. It was demonstrated that if HCl is added in a small proportion, a rapid and efficient LCO dissolution can be achieved. Indeed, if more than three protons are added per one cobalt atom present in the LCO structure, a complete dissolution of the material is accomplished within 2 h at 80 °C. This result might be considered as a viable alternative compared to the literature where much longer reaction times and higher temperatures are applied to achieve similar results with the same DES system used either pure or in presence of additional reducing agents. It was further demonstrated that Co and Li can be fully precipitated after Li2CO3 addition. This precipitation does neither pollute the DES nor leads to its degradation provided the pH does not exceed 10. Finally, it was shown that two additional reuse cycles can be carried out without any decrease of recovery efficiency, while no degradation products have been detected within the DES phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous lithium‐ion batteries (ALIBs) are attracting significant attention as promising candidates for safe and sustainable energy storage systems. This paper delves into the crucial aspects of ALIB technology focusing on the interaction between LiCoO2 (lithium cobalt oxide) cathode material and water electrolytes, with a specific emphasis on the Oxygen Evolution Reaction (OER) process. Fundamental understanding of the electrochemical behavior of LiCoO2 in aqueous electrolytes is crucial for enhancing the performance, safety, and longevity of ALIBs using LiCoO2 as the cathode material. Through a comprehensive periodic density functional analysis of the LiCoO2‐water at the cathode interface, the potential catalytic contributions to the OER mechanism of LiCoO2 are explored. The catalytic properties of LiCoO2 towards OER are investigated considering different steady states of the lowest energy surfaces of LiCoO2 and three different Li concentrations. Our results do not predict the formation of oxygen gas due to the expected large overpotentials, although the exergonic water decomposition to hydroxyl by means the first proton‐electron transfer is predicted at equilibrium potential. This work contributes to the fundamental understanding of LiCoO2 as cathode for aqueous lithium‐ion batteries, reporting the pros and cons of one of the most common cathode materials for traditional non‐aqueous batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the consumption of fossil fuel resources and the enhancement of environmental pollution are serious problems. One of the best strategies for resolving this issue is to use sustainable and renewable energy sources. Hydrogen, as a clean energy carrier, is a suitable candidate to supply the energy demand in the future and achieve carbon neutrality. Today, storing hydrogen and applying it as a fuel is one of the most significant issues in the world. Hydrogen must be stored in a safe, economical, and reversible. Hydrogen can be stored using nanoparticles. In this study, for the first time, lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO 2) nanoparticles have been synthesized by a green method using Aloe vera leaves extract. The structure and morphology of the sample have been investigated by means of various techniques. The hydrogen storage capacity of the as-synthesized LiCoO 2 nanoparticles has been measured in alkaline media using the chronopotentiometry technique. The obtained results show the high discharge capacity of 4858 mAh/g, after 11 cycles. [Display omitted] • Pure LiCoO 2 nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized by an eco-friendly green process. • The optical band gap of LiCoO 2 nanoparticles was about 1.7 (eV). • The LiCoO 2 nanoparticles have mesoporous structures. • LiCoO 2 showed a very high hydrogen storage capacity of 4858 mAh/g. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recycling critical elements from spent batteries has always placed an emphasis on green chemistry. However, the reduction or minimization of the input of chemicals, secondary waste and energy consumption still needs to explore new technologies. In this work, we propose a paired electrolysis process to concurrently treat lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2, as a cathode) and lithium iron phosphorate (LiFePO4, as an anode) in sulfuric acid solution. In this process, LiCoO2 is reduced to release Co2+ and Li+ into the electrolyte through a surface chemical reaction control process. The activation energies of Li and Co are 23.38 and 28.70 kJ mol−1. LiFePO4 is oxidized to FePO4 while releasing Li+ through a surface chemical reaction control process with an activation energy of 14.95 kJ mol−1. Through this approach, both leaching efficiencies of Li and Co reach above 98%. Since two electrode reactions simultaneously proceed in one electrolytic cell, the paired electrolysis has the benefit of maximizing energy efficiency, as well as reducing the amount of chemicals and secondary waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Slurry casting has been used to fabricate lithium‐ion battery electrodes for decades, which involves toxic and expensive organic solvents followed by high‐cost vacuum drying and electrode calendaring. This work presents a new manufacturing method using a nonthermal plasma to create inter‐particle binding without using any polymeric binding materials, enabling solvent‐free manufacturing electrodes with any electrochemistry of choice. The cold‐plasma‐coating technique enables fabricating electrodes with thickness (>200 μm), high mass loading (>30 mg cm−2), high peel strength, and the ability to print lithium‐ion batteries in an arbitrary geometry. This crosscutting, chemistry agnostic, platform technology would increase energy density, eliminate the use of solvents, vacuum drying, and calendaring processes during production, and reduce manufacturing cost for current and future cell designs. Here, lithium iron phosphate and lithium cobalt oxide were used as examples to demonstrate the efficacy of the cold‐plasma‐coating technique. It is found that the mechanical peel strength of cold‐plasma‐coating‐manufactured lithium iron phosphate is over an order of magnitude higher than that of slurry‐casted lithium iron phosphate electrodes. Full cells assembled with a graphite anode and the cold‐plasma‐coating‐lithium iron phosphate cathode offer highly reversible cycling performance with a capacity retention of 81.6% over 500 cycles. For the highly conductive cathode material lithium cobalt oxide, an areal capacity of 4.2 mAh cm−2 at 0.2 C is attained. We anticipate that this new, highly scalable manufacturing technique will redefine global lithium‐ion battery manufacturing providing significantly reduced plant footprints and material costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As global energy priorities shift toward sustainable alternatives, the need for innovative energy storage solutions becomes increasingly crucial. In this landscape, solid-state batteries (SSBs) emerge as a leading contender, offering a significant upgrade over conventional lithium-ion batteries in terms of energy density, safety, and lifespan. This review provides a thorough exploration of SSBs, with a focus on both traditional and emerging cathode materials like lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2), lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4), lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4), as well as novel sulfides and oxides. The compatibility of these materials with solid electrolytes and their respective benefits and limitations are extensively discussed. The review delves into the structural optimization of cathode materials, covering strategies such as nanostructuring, surface coatings, and composite formulations. These are critical in addressing issues like conductivity limitations and structural vulnerabilities. We also scrutinize the essential roles of electrical and thermal properties in maintaining battery safety and performance. To conclude, our analysis highlights the revolutionary role of SSBs in the future of energy storage. While substantial advancements have been made, the path forward presents numerous challenges and research opportunities. This review not only acknowledges these challenges, but also points out the need for scalable manufacturing approaches and a deeper understanding of electrode–electrolyte interactions. It aims to steer the scientific community toward addressing these challenges and advancing the field of SSBs, thereby contributing significantly to the development of environmentally friendly energy solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reflection high energy electron diffraction (RHEED) information is critical for the growth of thin films; however, only a small percentage of the data from RHEED videos is typically used. The use of full videos in machine learning can require dimension reduction techniques. In this paper, three dimension reduction techniques, principal component analysis (PCA), non-negative matrix factorization (NMF), and kmeans clustering, are compared to investigate their benefits to the analysis of RHEED data. Three different heterostructures with different growth modes, all deposited on Ti-terminated strontium titanate by pulsed laser deposition, were used for the analysis: lanthanum aluminate with layer-by-layer growth, lithium cobalt oxide with island growth, and strontium ruthenate with a transition from layer-by-layer to step-flow growth. A phase shift in intensity fluctuations of different RHEED spots was discovered and discussed in terms of their sensitivity to the film growth characterization. The diffraction spots that were more sensitive to the growth were differentiated from the spots that are affected by the substrate as a function of film thickness. It was concluded that NMF provides the analysis that is easiest to interpret without the loss of detailed physical information due to its non-negativity constraint and lack of forced orthogonality such as in PCA. Analysis of the full RHEED videos enables a more detailed understanding of growth characteristics and control of growth processes as aided by dimension reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flotation separation of valuable components including graphite and lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) from the waste electrode materials of lithium battery is a key link in the recycling of waste lithium battery, which is difficult to realize with some conventional flotation techniques due to the fine size of graphite and LCO. Interfacial nanobubbles induced by temperature increasing were introduced into the flotation system and the mechanism on improving the flotation performance of electrode materials by nanobubbles was studied by combining intermittent mode atomic force microscope (AFM) imaging technique, colloidal probe technique, agglomeration size analyzer, particle-bubble interaction visualization and flotation. The results show that the images of nanobubbles were captured at highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) and alumina surface with intermittent mode AFM. The detachment and/or coalescence of nanoentities in the action of AFM tip at contact mode provided evidence supporting gaseous nature of these nanoentities. The maximum adhesion force between graphite and HOPG in-creased in the presence of nanobubbles between graphite and HOPG. The maximum adhesion force was lower than 10 nN in the room temperature water while up to 110 nN in the cold water, which varied with the pH variation in slurry. It was observed that the larger graphite agglomerations were induced by interfacial nanobubbles. The size of such graphite agglomerations increased by 2−11 μm in the cold water compared with that in the room temperature water. The nucleation of interfacial nanobubbles on graphite surface and the formation of graphite agglomerations synergistically enhanced the adhesion between graphite and fixed bubbles. The flotation results showed that the flotation performance was always improved with nanobubbles in all slurry with different pH values and ions concentrations.