Morphology and electrochemistry of LiMn₂O₄ optimized by using different Mn-sources

Spinel-typed LiMn₂O₄ cathode active materials have been prepared for different microstructures by the melt-impregnation method using different forms of manganese. The effect of the starting materials on the microstructure and electrochemical properties of LiMn₂O₄ is investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and electrochemical measurements. The powder prepared from nanostructured γ-MnOOH, with good crystallinity and a regular cubic spinel shape, provided an initial discharge capacity of 114 mAh g^-1 with excellent rate and high capacity retention. These advantages render LiMn₂O₄ attractive for practical and large-scale applications in mobile equipment.