STORAGE CHARACTERISTICS OF CATHODES FOR LI-ION BATTERIES

The storage characteristics of LiMn2O4, LiCoO2 and LiNiO2 have been ev aluated in liquid electrolytes commonly used in lithium-ion batteries. All materials show self-discharge phenomena even at moderate oxidatio n levels. Three mechanisms are thought to be operating in this process : (a) electrolyte decomposition; (b) spontaneous Li+ reinsertion due t o instability of the delithiated cathodes; (c) solubility by corrosion . Mechanisms (a) and (c) have been much in evidence in the impedance t ests. Copyright (C) 1996 Elsevier Science Ltd.