Engineering hetero-epitaxial nanostructures with aligned Li-ion channels in Li-rich layered oxides for high-performance cathode application

However, LLO cathode materials are facing a fundamental challenge of performance degradation as a result of the intrinsically poor rate capability and structural instability. Here we report the synthesis of high performance spinel/LLO heterostructured composite with aligned Li-ion channels by a composition modulated epitaxy method. The hetero-epitaxial nanostructure provides highly anisotropic Li-ion diffusion channels in spinel/LLO composite that significantly improve the electrochemical performance. Discharge capacities as high as 307, 282, 269, 227, 200 mA h g−1at 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 3.0 and 5.0 C rates, respectively, and reversible capacity of 286 mA  h g−1after 100 cycles at 0.2 C rate can be attained. This work sheds light on the comprehensive design of heterostructured composites for high-performance electrode applications and opens up new opportunities for next-generation LIBs.