Status and outlook for lithium-ion battery cathode material synthesis and the application of mechanistic modeling

Abstract

This work reviews different techniques available for the synthesis and modification of cathode
active material particles used in Li-ion batteries. The synthesis techniques are analyzed in terms
of processes involved and product particle structure. The knowledge gap in the process-particle
structure relationship is identified. Many of these processes are employed in other similar
industries; hence, parallel insights and knowledge transfer can be applied to battery materials.
Here, we discuss examples of applications of different mechanistic models outside the battery
literature and identify similar potential applications for the synthesis of cathode active materials.
We propose that the widespread implementation of such mechanistic models will increase the
understanding of the process-particle structure relationship. Such understanding will provide
better control over the cathode active material synthesis technique and open doors to the precise
tailoring of product particle morphologies favorable for enhanced electrochemical performance.