Preparation of Spherical LiCoO2 Powders by the Ultrasonic Spray Decomposition and Its Application to Cathode Active Material in Lithium Secondary Battery

Spherical LiCoO2 fine powders were prepared by the ultrasonic spray decomposition. The effect of synthesis factors on particle morphology, particle size and its distribution, and crystallinity was investigated. LiCoO2 was obtained by the spray decomposition at 500°C. Asprepared powders were porous and nonagglomerated particles with sub-micrometer sizes having narrow size distribution. The particle size and crystallinity were dependent on the synthesis conditions. However, the particle size distribution was not affected by the synthesis conditions. LiCoO2 powders were used as cathode active material for lithium secondary battery and its charge/discharge property was investigated. The charge/discharge voltage of lithium secondary battery was 3.9V.