Here we present a comparative study exploring the possibility of ultra-thin alumina and silica coatings on NMC 811 using wet chemical methods. NMC 811 was synthesised by a citric acid-aided gelling method with subsequent annealing. Alumina coatings were processed by a solution drying method employing NMC 811 particles dispersed in an aqueous Al(NO3)3 solution. The solution was sonicated and evaporated under vigorous stirring. Subsequently, the powder was heat-treated to form the desired alumina coating. The temperature and dwelling time were controlled so as to mitigate extensive Al diffusion into the layered structure and the formation of a LiAlO2 surface layer. [4] The silica coatings were processed by a solution drying process employing either a tetraethyl orthosilicate solution, or an aqueous solution with the addition of functionalised silanes. The powder/solution mixture was treated and dried in the same manner as for the alumina coating. After the solution was dried, the powders were heat treated to form an ultra-thin silica coating. The electrochemical performance and cycling stability of the coated NMC 811 materials are compared to the as-synthesised material, and morphology and chemical composition of the coatings and interface were analysed by electron microscopy and electron energy loss spectroscopy. Finally, the thermal stability of the charged (delithiated) material was determined by differential scanning calometry.
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