Novel 2D LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 hierarchical nanosheets are successfully synthesized through a simple solgel strategy with ethanol dispersion of carbon nanotubes as addictive. The nanosheets with thickness of similar to 100 nm appear porous and are formed by 100 nm nanoparticles. As cathode for lithium ion battery, the 2D porous hierarchical nanosheets demonstrate high specific capacity of 137.7 mAh g(-1) at 20C (1C = 200 mA g(-1)), which is much higher than those of its counterparts. The high capacity can be still maintained during 100 charge/discharge cycles and the capacity retention is up to 90.1%. The excellent rate capability and cyclability may be attributed to the distinct 2D porous hierarchical structure. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.