Fast–charging lithium–ion batteries: Review on enhancing lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide cathodes with additives

The demand for efficient, fast–charging lithium–ion batteries (LIBs) is increasing due to the growing reliance on electric vehicles and portable electronics. However, traditional LIBs have several limitations including thermal instability, rapid degradation, and low specific capacity during fast–charging, which restrict their performance and longevity. Advanced materials and innovative modifications are being explored to overcome these challenges and enhance the capabilities of LIBs. Among these, lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (LiNi₀.₈Co₀.₁Al₀.₁O₂, NCA) cathodes have emerged as promising candidates due to their high specific capacity (180–200 mAh/g) and superior thermal stability. This review focuses on the optimization of NCA cathodes for fast–charging applications by exploring various additives and methodologies involving conductive carbon, metal oxides, doping elements, surface coatings, polymeric binders, and ionic conductors. These additives are applied using strategies such as mixing with the active material, surface coating, and doping during the synthesis. The impact of these modifications on the performance metrics of the NCA cathode electrode is analyzed, emphasizing optimizing fast–charging capabilities. This review highlights the potential of NCA cathode electrodes to reduce charging times and extend cycle life, while addressing challenges related to material composition and environmental impact. Prospects for future research are discussed to enhance the applicability of NCA cathode electrodes in electric vehicles and portable electronic devices, and to address associated manufacturing challenges.