MCUT Research

Composites Part B: Engineering/ 2026, Vol. 311, 113287

Exploring the synergistic advantages of tantalum-modified LiNi_0.90Co_0.04Mn_0.03Al_0.03O₂ cathode materials: A comprehensive study on enhanced phase transition stability and reduced interfacial degradation

Main authors: Juliya Jeyakumar/ MCUT, Liang-Yin Kuo/ University of Bayreuth, UoB (Germany), Quoc-Thai Pham/ NIU, Chorng-Shyan Chern/ NTUST, Bing Joe Hwang/ NTUST, Chun-Chen Yang*/ MCUT, Yi-Shiuan Wu*/ MCUT (*Corresponding Authors)

(1)  Abstract / Key Findings:

Researchers successfully enhanced Ni-rich NCMA (LiNi₀.₉₀Co₀.₀₄Mn₀.₀₃Al₀.₀₃O₂) cathodes by incorporating 0.4 mol.% Tantalum (Ta). This modification creates a synergistic effect: Ta acts as both a lattice dopant and a Li₇TaO₆ surface coating. This dual strategy aligns primary particles radially, thereby significantly reducing microcracking and transition-metal dissolution. The Ta-modified cathode achieved an impressive 92% capacity retention after 200 cycles and maintained high stability under extremely high temperatures (45 °C) and high voltages (4.5 V), effectively overcoming the structural degradation typical of high-nickel materials. (論文連結)

(2)  Potential Applications:

• Electric Vehicles (EVs): Provide the high energy density required for longer driving ranges while ensuring the battery pack lasts for the vehicle's entire lifespan.
• Grid-Scale Energy Storage: Enhances the durability of large-scale systems that require frequent cycling and high reliability.
• Aerospace and Defense: Suitable for high-performance applications where batteries must operate under high-stress, high-voltage, or fluctuating temperature environments.
• Premium Consumer Electronics: Ideal for high-end laptops or power tools that demand fast discharge rates and prolonged battery health.

(3)  Global and National Impact:

This breakthrough accelerates the global transition toward sustainable energy by making high-capacity lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) commercially viable and durable. Nationally, it strengthens the battery supply chain by reducing battery replacement frequency and minimizing chemical waste. By stabilizing Ni-rich chemistries, this research lowers the "range anxiety" barrier to EV adoption, directly contributing to international carbon-neutrality goals. Furthermore, the use of Ta modification provides a technical blueprint for manufacturing robust, next-generation energy storage solutions that can withstand harsh climatic conditions worldwide.