Lithium-rich borate coated LiMn_0.6Fe_0.4PO₄cathodes for high-performance and stable lithium-ion batteries

The development of high-energy-density and long-life lithium-ion batteries necessitates the design of cathode materials with enhanced electrochemical and structural stability. In this work, we demonstrate a lithium-rich Li₃BO₃surface coating as an effective strategy to improve the performance of LiMn₀.₆Fe₀.₄PO₄cathodes. Guided by diffusion barrier calculations, Li₃BO₃is selected for its favorable lithium-ion conductivity and low migration barrier of approximately 0.321 eV. Structural and spectroscopic analyses confirm the formation of a uniform Li₃BO₃layer that preserves the integrity of the carbon coating while introducing hierarchical porosity. The coating significantly enhances charge-transfer kinetics and lithium-ion diffusion, resulting in superior rate capability with a discharge capacity of 94.04 mAh/g at 0.64 A/g and improved long-term cycling stability with 84.2 % capacity retention after 1000 cycles at 0.16 A/g. Furthermore, post-cycling characterizations reveal that the coating effectively suppresses manganese dissolution, mitigates surface degradation, and stabilizes the electrode–electrolyte interface. This study highlights the potential of Li₃BO₃as a multifunctional coating for high-performance LMFP-based cathodes and offers a scalable strategy for advanced lithium-ion battery applications.