Boosting the electrochemical performance of Li-rich Mn-based cathode by a one-step Li3PO4 modification

Li-rich Mn-based oxide (LRMO) represents a promising cathode for next-generation lithium-ion batteries due to its superior energy density. However, its widespread commercialization is hampered by severe capacity fade, voltage decay, and inferior rate performance. Herein, modification of LRMO with Li 3 PO 4 (LPO) is achieved by a novel one-step strategy that seamlessly integrates freeze-drying with subsequent calcination in air. Crucially, this LPO significantly enhances lithium-ion diffusion kinetics without altering the bulk crystal structure. The optimized cathode with a 3 wt% LPO delivers superior cycling stability, with a remarkable capacity retention of 67.8% after 600 cycles at 1C and 25 °C, significantly outperforming the blank cathode (54.9%). It also exhibits outstanding rate capability (102.9 mAh g −1 at 10C) and long-term cyclability (58.0% capacity retention after 1000 cycles at 3C). Furthermore, the practical applicability is further demonstrated under a 1.5C/0.5C protocol and in a full cell with a Si@C anode. This work provides a scalable synthesis route, advancing the development of practical high-energy LRMO cathodes.