Li2MnO3 based Li-rich cathode materials: towards a better tomorrow of high energy lithium ion batteries

Li2MnO3 based layered Li-rich materials as promising cathode candidates of Li ion batteries (LIBs) have attracted much recent attention mainly owing to their superior high specific capacity and high working voltage. To date, although researchers have put much effort to this family of materials, there are still a number of issues under debates in the fundamental understanding of the crystal structures and the electrochemical reaction mechanisms, before the materials can be ready for practical applications. In this review article, we address the recent progress of this group of Li-rich cathode materials with a good hope to better understanding of the relationships among composition, crystal structure and electrochemical reaction mechanisms. In addition, the use of advanced microscopic characterisation and the strategies of novel material designs will also be discussed for better cathode design for LIBs.