Lithium-ion battery (LIB) is widely used in electric vehicles, computers, mobile phones and other electronic products because of its high energy density, good rate performance and long life. This paper concentrates on the research of cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries. Through literature review and comparative analysis, four commonly used cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries are evaluated, including lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO₂), lithium manganese oxide (LiMn₂O₄), Ferrous lithium phosphate (LiFePO₄) and emerging nickel-rich ternary materials (NCM and NCA) from the perspective of structure and performance. These materials are unique, but they all have some shortcomings and face some challenges. This paper further outlines the future research direction for cathode material, including the exploration and development of new materials and technology, as well as environmental and sustainability concerns. Finally, this paper concludes that the future development of cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries will depend on interdisciplinary cooperation and innovation to realize more efficient, safer and more environmentally friendly energy storage technology.
