Lithium Cobalt Oxide
In this article, I will go over the characteristics of LCO and its uses.
Lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) cathodes have a high specific energy (energy per unit mass, J/kg). This makes it a great cathode material for batteries in consumer electronics (smartphones, tablets, and laptops). LCO does not have a high specific power (power per unit mass, W/kg), so it is not suitable for EV powertrains or power tools. LCO also has a relatively short lifespan and low thermal stability.
Batteries with LCO cathodes generally have graphite anodes. During charging, lithium ions move away from the cathode matrix and intercalate between the graphite layers. The ions move back towards the LCO during discharge.
LCO is a relatively expensive due to the price of cobalt.