Li[Ni0.45Co0.1Mn0.45-xZrx]O-2 (x = 0, 0.02) was synthesized via co-precipitation method. Partial Zr doping on the host structure of Li[Ni0.45Co0.1Mn0.45]O-2 was carried out to improve the electrochemical properties. The Zr-doped Li[Ni0.45Co0.1Mn0.43Zr0.02]O-2 was evaluated in terms of specific discharge capacity, cycling performance and thermal stability. The Zr-doped Li[Ni0.45Co0.1Mn0.45-xZr0.02]O-2 shows the improved cycling performance and stable thermal stability. The major exothermic reaction was delayed from 252.1 degrees C to 289.4 degrees C. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.