Synthesis of single-crystal magnesium-doped spinel lithium manganate and its applications for lithium-ion batteries

Single-crystal magnesium-doped spinel lithium manganate cathode materials are prepared by the hydrothermal method followed by the heat treatment. XRD patterns reveal that Mg²⁺ions have already diffused into the Li_1.088Mn_1.912O₄ crystal structure and not affect the Fd3m space group. SEM images demonstrate that the magnesium-doped spinel lithium manganates show uniform polyhedral single crystals with 2–4 μm. Electrochemical performance demonstrates that the optimized composition of Li_1.088Mg_0.070Mn_1.842O₄ electrode exhibits the best electrochemical properties. It delivers 92.0 mAh g⁻¹ at 8C rates and corresponds to 90.8% capacity retention (vs. 1C), far higher than those of the pristine electrode (70.4 mAh g⁻¹ and 69.2%). In addition, the Li_1.088Mg_0.070Mn_1.842O₄ electrode also shows 95.5% capacity retention after 100 cycles at 1C, while the pristine electrode only shows 91.0% capacity retention. The excellent electrochemical performances of Li_1.088Mg_0.070Mn_1.842O₄ electrode are ascribed to the suppressed polarization, more stable crystal structure, and better kinetic characteristics.