Influence of the metal-induced crystallization on the structural and electrochemical properties of sputtered LiCoO2 thin films

Abstract LiCoO 2 thin films were fabricated using the metal-induced crystallization (MIC) method. The condition to create the MIC effect was investigated. The location and thickness of the Al coating used to manufacture the LiCoO 2 cathode thin film electrodes were varied, and the structural and electrochemical characteristics of the LiCoO 2 thin film electrode were investigated by Raman spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy and charge-discharge tests. The degree of crystallization of LiCoO 2 increased in the order of uncoated LiCoO 2 (lowest), Al(coating)/LiCoO 2 /Al foil, and LiCoO 2 /Al(coating)/Al foil (highest), for identical heat treatment condition (600 °C, 1 h). The crystallization of LiCoO 2 occurred more quickly as the Al thickness decreased, and it is considered that crystallization of LiCoO 2 is delayed owing to the formation of an alloy between Li-Al when there is more Al.