In the present study, an attempt is made to synthesis LiNi0.8Co0.2O2 compounds by adopting a novel solution combustion route, because this compound is a promising candidate to replace commercial LiCoO2 in secondary lithium batteries. LiNi0.8Co0.2O2 is synthesized at 750degreesC for 3, 12 and 24h in an air atmosphere. Its structural and electrochemical properties are characterized by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), cyclic voltammetry, and charge-discharge studies. The charge-discharge behaviours suggests that the initial discharge capacities are different for different charging cut-off voltages. LiNi0.8Co0.2O2 shows high specific discharge capacity and good cycle-life performance. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.