Solid solutions Li1+xV3O8 as cathodes for high rate secondary Li batteries

Following a preliminary investigation, Li/Li_1+xV₃O₈ cells have been examined. Using samples of low x content, up to 3 eq Li⁺ could be accepted both chemically and electrochemically by one mole of active material. Li⁺ is accomodated in the tetrahedral sites existing between the (V₃O₈)^(1+x)- layers. Li⁺ jumping from site to site is fast and permits high rate capabilities: at 10 mA/cm², 1.1 eq Li⁺ per mole could still be inserted. The structure does not show irreversible alterations upon extended lithiation, allowing long cycle lives to be achieved. Kinetic constraints limit the recovery of the full capacity of the first discharge at medium-high rates, but the second-discharge capacity declines slowly with cycle number.