Method for preparing lithiated or perlithiated transition metal oxide, positive electrode active material containing such oxide, and battery

摘要

A lithiated or super-lithiated transition metal oxide is produced by reduction of a transition metal oxide powder dispersed in a solution of a heavy alkoxide of lithium. A lithiated or super-lithiated transition metal oxide is produced by: (a) preparation of a lithium alkoxide solution by dissolving metallic lithium in a corresponding alcohol derived from linear or branched =3C alkanes; (b) dispersion of a transition metal oxide powder in the solution; (c) controlled reduction of the oxide by the lithium alkoxide to obtain a lithiated or super-lithiated transition metal oxide of defined Li:metal stoichiometry; and (d) evaporation of residual alcohol, rinsing and drying of the resulting powder. Independent claims are also included for the following: (i) a lithiated or super-lithiated transition metal oxide obtained by the above process; (ii) an electrode comprising the above lithiated or super-lithiated transition metal oxide as active material prior to any charge/discharge operations; and (iii) a battery containing the above electrode.