Glycerol-assisted solution combustion synthesis of improved LiMn2O4

Spinel LiMn2O4 has been synthesized by a glycerol-assisted combustion synthesis method. The phase composition and morphologies of the compound were ascertained by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The electrochemical characterization was performed by using CR2032 coin-type cell. XRD analysis indicates that single phase spinel LiMn2O4 with good crystallinity has been obtained as a result of 5 h treatment at 600 °C. SEM investigation indicates that the average particle size of the sample is 200 nm. The initial discharge specific capacity of the LiMn2O4 is 123 mAh/g at a current density of 30 mA/g. When the current density increased to 300 mA/g, the LiMn2O4 offered a discharge specific capacity of 86 mAh/g. Compared with the LiMn2O4 prepared by a conventional solution combustion synthesis method at the same temperature, the prepared LiMn2O4 possesses higher purity, better crystallinity and more uniformly dispersed particles. Moreover, the initial discharge specific capacity, rate capability and cycling performance of the prepared LiMn2O4 are significantly improved.