Synthesis and characterization of LiAlyCo1−yO2 and LiAlyNi1−yO2

Aluminum is of interest as a constituent in Li secondary battery cathodes due to its low cost and low mass. Increased intercalation potential for certain Al-doped intercalation oxides has also been predicted by ab initio calculations. We have synthesized single phase LiAlyCo1−yO2 and LiAlyNi1−yO2 solid solutions from homogeneous hydroxide precursors. In LiAlyNi1−yO2, it was found that the addition of LiAlO2 helps to stabilize LiNiO2 in the α-NaFeO2 structure during air firing, facilitating preparation of the ordered phase. A systematic increase in the open circuit voltage is observed with Al content in both LiAlyCo1−yO2 and LiAlyNi1−yO2 solid solution, providing additional support for the ab initio calculations.