Rare Earth Lattice Optimization Towards High-Performance Ni-Rich Layered Cathodes

High-Ni layered oxide cathode materials are promising cathode materials for high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, high-Ni layered oxide cathodes still face issues, such as rapid structural collapse and surface parasitic reactions. Herein, a universal strategy using rare earth (La, Pr, Sm, Eu, Tb, Ho, etc.) lattice-optimized spray-drying preparation combined with the integration of a solid-state synthesis process for preparing spherically high-Ni cathodes is probed. This practical method synergizes rare earth lattice optimization and an artificial coating strategy for high-performance high-Ni LiNi_0.84Co_0.12Al_0.03Ho_0.01O₂ cathodes. The doping of Ho mitigates the mixing of Li⁺ and Ni²⁺ ions, and the suitable ionic radius ofHo element enlarges the plane spacing and promotes the rapid diffusion of Li⁺ within the particles without causing significant lattice distortion. The cathodes show a high capacity of 223.7 mAh g⁻¹ at 0.2 C and keep an ultra-stable cycling stability even after 1200 cycles at the full-cell level. This work provides a facile and highly efficient strategy for designing spherical, high-capacity, and long-cycle-life high-Ni layered oxide cathodes for practically sustainable LIBs.