A modified LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2-coating process is introduced to improve the electrochemical performance of LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (LNCM811). The coating process is carried on a precursor, Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1(OH) 2 (NCM811), rather than on LNCM811. Unlike the electro-inert metal oxide coatings, the LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 (LNCM111) layer is electrochemically active and able to relieve reactions between the highly delithiated Li1-mu Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 and the electrolyte on account of the decrease of nickel content in outer layer. The LNCM111-coated LNCM811 material shows superior electrochemical performance, with an initial discharge capacity of 153 mAh g(-1) and capacity retention of 90% after 100 cycles at 2C rate between 2.8 and 4.3 V at 60 degrees C. (C) 2014 Published by Elsevier B.V.