Synthesis and characterization of LiMn2O4/Ag composite by citrate gel and combustion method

The powder of LiMn2O4/Ag composite was prepared by citrate gel and combustion technique using lithium acetate, manganese acetate and silver nitrate as starting materials. Phase identification, surface morphology and electrochemical properties were studied by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, galvanostatic charge–discharge experiments, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results show that the powder is the composite of LiMn2O4 and Ag metal, and silver disperses homogeneously in LiMn2O4 particles. Compared with LiMn2O4, LiMn2O4/Ag composite has higher specific capacity, higher columbic efficiency and lower polarization. The additive of Ag improves the cycleability of LiMn2O4 powders, especially at higher charge–discharge rate.