Study on the performance of LiCoxMn2 − xO4 − yFy using spent alkaline Zn–Mn batteries as manganese source

• Spinel LiMn2O4 has been prepared using the spent Zn-Mn batteries as raw materials.
• The single Co-substitution deteriorated the capacities but improved the cyclability.
• The single F-substitution deteriorated the cyclability but improved the capacities.
• The F-Co compound substitution exhibited good electrochemical performance.

We have successfully synthesized the spinel LiCoxMn2 − xO4 − yFy cathode materials by simple sol-gel method using the manganese source that is recovered from spent alkaline Zn–Mn batteries through hydrometallurgy recycling technology. The charge–discharge curves demonstrate that the LiCo0.1Mn1.9O4 exhibited good cycling performance with 94.0% capacity retention after 100 cycles. The LiMn2O3.9 F0.1 possesses the maximum initial discharge capacity of 124.54 mAh · g− 1. The LiCo0.1Mn1.9O3.9 F0.1 has the best comprehensive performance. The initial discharge capacity of LiCo0.1Mn1.9O3.9 F0.1 is 120.7 mAh · g− 1, the capacity retention is 91.7% after 100 cycles.