Synthesis of LiMnO2 porous microsphere and its electrochemical behaviour as cathode material in lithium-ion batteries

Orthorhombic LiMnO₂ porous microspheres with the pore size of 200-500 nm were synthesised by Mn₂O₃ precursor and LiOH·H₂O at 750°C for 5 h. Field-emitting scanning electron microscope images show the obtained products basically preserve the initial morphology of Mn₂O₃ precursor. The electrochemical tests of the as-obtained LiMnO₂ presented the maximum discharge capacity of 163 mAh/g at the 11th cycle, and remained above 143 mAh/g after 30 cycles at a current density of 30 mA/g, corresponding to a capacity fading of 12.1%. For comparative purpose, the LiMnO₂ nanoparticles prepared with the Li₂CO₃ substituted for LiOH·H₂O as the lithium source were studied, which showed their maximum discharge capacity was only 153 mAh/g, together with a capacity of 136 mAh/g after 30 cycles at the same current density.