Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LiCoO2)

Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LiCoO2, LCO) powder is the original commercialised lithium-ion cathode chemistry and still the material of choice wherever compact, high-volumetric-energy-density cells are required. Our LCO powder is produced with tightly controlled particle size distribution, low residual lithium and moisture content, and consistent tap density to deliver reliable slurry rheology and dependable cycling performance. Each lot ships with a certificate of analysis confirming purity, particle size, and electrochemical performance data. Available across multiple purity and particle-size grades, from standard consumer-electronics-grade powder to high-voltage doped/coated variants and fine research-grade material. Custom particle size distributions, surface coatings, and packaging are available on request.

Surface Area (m2/g) :<5
Particle Size d50 (μm) :<3
Purity (%)>99.8
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Introduction to Lithium Cobalt Oxide Powder

Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LiCoO₂, LCO) is a layered α-NaFeO₂-type cathode material with a rhombohedral R-3m structure, consisting of alternating Li⁺ and CoO₂ layers within a close-packed oxygen framework. Its two-dimensional structure enables reversible Li⁺ extraction and insertion, while the Co³⁺/Co⁴⁺ redox couple provides high operating voltage and energy density. Commercialised in the first practical lithium-ion batteries, LCO remains widely used in space-constrained consumer electronics because of its high volumetric energy density and well-established processing technology. However, high cobalt cost and reduced thermal and structural stability at high states of charge limit its use in large-format batteries. Supplied as fine, free-flowing powder, LCO is processed into cathode slurries for lithium-ion cells used in smartphones, laptops, tablets, cameras, and other portable electronics.

FAQs

Question: What is lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2)?

Answer: Lithium cobalt oxide is used to formulate the positive electrode of lithium-ion batteries. It occurs in dark blue or bluish-gray crystalline structures and has significant applications in energy storage technologies.

Question: How is lithium cobalt oxide used in batteries?

Answer: LiCoO2 is a cathode material used in lithium-ion batteries. It contributes to the battery’s energy density and stability. This means that batteries can efficiently charge smartphones, laptops, and electric cars.

Question: Why is LiCoO2 important for electric vehicles?

Answer: LiCoO2 optimizes the electric vehicle’s performance by increasing battery capacity, which helps improve the distances that an electric vehicle can travel on one charge.

Question: What is the significance of the cobalt oxidation state in LiCoO2?

Answer: The cobalt atoms in LiCoO2 are in a trivalent oxidation state, which is essential for the compound’s electrochemical properties and contributes to its effectiveness as a cathode material in batteries.

Question: How does the structure of LiCoO2 affect its performance in batteries?

Answer: In LiCoO2, the lithium cations are sandwiched between cobalt and oxygen sheets. This facilitates the movement of lithium ions during charging and discharging, enhancing the overall performance of lithium-ion batteries.