The Sintering Temperature Effect on Electrochemical Properties of LiMn2O4

The effect of sintering temperature on the electrochemical property of LiMn2O4 was investigated. Results showed that the particle size was increased at higher sintering temperatures while the initial capacity was decreased after high temperature sintering. Capacity fading, on the other hand, was suppressed at lower sintering temperatures since the sintering at higher temperatures (>= 800 degrees C) increased the Mn ions with a lower oxidation state (Mn+3), which induced structural instability during cycling due to dissolution of Mn ions into the electrolyte. In particular, LiMn2O4 sintered above 830 degrees C showed severe capacity fading (capacity loss was 38% of initial capacity) by lower coulombic efficiency due to the abnormally increased particle size.