The Li-ion battery (LIB) industry has rapidly developed and dominates the market of electric vehicles and portable electronic devices. Special attention is devoted to achieving higher power and energy densities, along with enhancing safety and reducing cost. Therefore, critical insights should be made on the understanding of the behavior of the components of LIBs under working conditions in order to direct future research and development. The present review discusses the literature on the properties and limitations of different cathode materials for LIBs, including layered transition metal oxides, spinels, and polyanionic positive electrode materials, with critical insights on the structural, thermal, and electrochemical changes that take place during cycling. Besides, the strategies and techniques capable of overcoming current limitations are highlighted.
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