Heat treatment effect on electrochemical properties of spinel Li4Ti5O12

Anode material Li4Ti5O12 was prepared at 800 degrees C by a solid-state reaction, followed by heat-treatment at 600 degrees C for different times (0, 2, 8, and 12 h). The effects of heat-treatment time on the particle morphology, rate-capability, and electrode kinetic process of the Li4Ti5O12 electrode, and on the lithium ion diffusion coefficient inside the Li4Ti5O12 electrode were investigated. Proper heat treatment could smoothen the particle surface of Li4Ti5O12 particles and increase the rate-capability of the electrode. Overlong heat treatment might cause particle aggregation and hence result in a poor electrode kinetic process. A sample with 8 h of heat treatment showed the best rate-capability and the lowest electrode reaction resistance. Heat treatment for 2-8 h does not significantly change the lithium ion diffusion coefficient inside the Li4Ti5O12 electrode, whereas, 12-h treatment results in a lower lithium ion diffusion coefficient.