litiumkoboloxid

Litiumkoboloxid is a chemical compound composed of lithium, cobalt, and oxygen, with the chemical formula LiCoO₂. It is commonly used as a cathode material in lithium-ion batteries due to its high energy density, stability, and good performance characteristics.

This compound adopts a layered alpha-NaFeO₂ structure, where cobalt ions are octahedrally coordinated with oxygen atoms, forming a layered structure that facilitates lithium-ion intercalation and deintercalation. During battery operation, lithium ions move between the layers of the crystal lattice, allowing for rechargeable energy storage.

Lithium cobalt oxide was first introduced in the early 1990s and became one of the most widely used cathode materials in portable electronic devices such as smartphones, laptops, and digital cameras. Its high voltage and energy density make it suitable for applications requiring compact power sources. However, cobalt's scarcity and high cost, as well as concerns over its environmental and ethical sourcing, have prompted research into alternative materials.

The synthesis of LiCoO₂ typically involves high-temperature solid-state reactions or other processes such as sol-gel methods, ensuring control over particle size and purity. Despite some drawbacks, lithium cobalt oxide remains a key component in the lithium-ion battery industry due to its proven performance and reliability.

Safety considerations include its thermal stability and the potential for thermal runaway if damaged or improperly charged. Ongoing developments focus on improving its safety profile and reducing reliance on cobalt, leading to the exploration of other cathode chemistries.