High-performance hierarchical LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2 microspheres synthesized via a facile template-sacrificial route

Highlights: • Microsphere hierarchical LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2 was fabricated. • A facile in situ route with MnO2 as the sacrificial template was developed. • Conventional co-precipitate synthesis method was compared. • The hierarchical microsphere sample exhibits superior electrochemical performance. -- Abstract: LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2 microspheres have been successfully synthesized via a facile in situ route with MnO2 as the sacrificial template. The as-obtained sample shows a unique nano/micro-hierarchical structure. As a cathode material for lithium-ion battery, the sample exhibits excellent electrochemical performance with higher capacity, superior cycling stability and rate capability as compared with that prepared by conventional co-precipitate reaction method. The discharge specific capacities for the first cycle are 196, 187, 182 and 176 mA h g−1 at 0.1, 0.2, 0.5 and 1 C, respectively. The superior performance can be ascribed to the unique microstructure with numerous nanosized primary particles that can provide rapid pathway for Li+ and e− diffusion, and facilitate the penetration of the electrolyte