A patent landscape analysis on the high-voltage spinel LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 for next-generation lithium-ion batteries

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is now a cornerstone technology to curb carbon emission by enabling electric vehicles and grid-scale energy storage. However, LIBs are highly materials-intensive, the cost and availability of the key materials, especially the lithium-containing cathode materials, are critical for the goal of decarbonization. High-voltage spinel LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 (LNMO) is a promising cobalt-free cathode material to cater to the surging demand for low-cost and high-energy-density LIBs. In this paper, the advantages of LNMO are quantified in terms of performance and sustainability, then the growing interest in the research and development (R&D) of LNMO is assessed by analyzing 559 related patents registered across 22 authorities. The analysis paints a comprehensive picture, including geographical distribution of patenting activities, major developers, and influential patents. Furthermore, the patents are categorized into four key innovation directions. A gradual shift from materials engineering to electrolyte design indicates that the development of novel high-voltage compatible electrolytes is expected to unlock LNMO for next-generation, sustainable, and high-performance batteries.