Synthesis and electrochemical properties of LiMn₂O₄ cathode material

Based on the TG-DSC analysis for Li₂CO₃/MnO₂ mixture powder, the cathode materials of LiMn₂O₄ were synthesized by solid-state reaction from the powders pre-treated at different temperatures, and characterized by XRD and SEM and the electrochemical properties were tested. An optimum process is obtained to be pre-treated at 600°C with a synthesis temperature at 830°C. The LiMn₂O₄ powder as-prepared has the fine spinel microstructure and morphology. An initial capacity of 122 mAh/g and a relatively high capacity retention of 96% are obtained for the LiMn₂O₄/Li battery after 20 cycles at room temperature. The curve shape of cyclic voltammogram is almost kept to be original after 20 cycles.