Thermal diffusivity measurement on LiMn2O4 and its de-lithiated form (λ-MnO2) using photoacoustic technique

In this paper we report the variation in thermal diffusivity of LiMn2O4 and its de-lithiated form (λ-MnO2) measured using an open photo acoustic cell (OPC). The thermal diffusivity of the samples is evaluated from the phase data associated with photo acoustic signal as a function of modulation frequency in transmission detection configuration (TDC). Analysis is based on the theory developed by Rosencwaig and Gersho. The effect of thermo elastic bending on thick samples is also studied. Taking in to consideration the importance of LiMn2O4 in the emerging battery technology the present work is an initial attempt to understand the effects of lithium distribution within the system on the thermal properties of LiMn2O4 and its delithiated form.