Characterization of cathode from LiNixMn2-xO4 nanofibers by electrospinning for Li-ion batteries

Ni substituted LiMn2O4 nanofiber cathode materials (LiNixMn2-xO4, x = 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5) have been prepared by a combination of electrospinning and sol-gel techniques. The nanofiber cathode materials appear to have a porous network-like morphology with nanosized diameters of similar to 120 nm and microsized lengths of >5 mu m. The structure provides short lithium diffusion paths and a large surface area, facilitating rapid charge-discharge characteristics. The Ni substitution not only mitigated the Jahn-Teller distortion effect but also greatly suppressed the Mn dissolution, which improved the rate capability and cycle performance. The LiNi0.4Mn1.6O4 nanofiber cathode exhibits excellent rate capability and cycle performance both at room temperature and at 55 degrees C. Thus, the LiNi0.4Mn1.6O4 nanofibers may be a potential cathode material for high rate discharge lithium ion batteries.