Sub-micrometer-sized LiMn1.5Ni0.5O4 spheres as high rate cathode materials for long-life lithium ion batteries

Spinel LiMn1.5Ni0.5O4 (LMNO) sub-micrometer-sized spheres were prepared in one step using porous MnCO3 microspheres as a self-supporting template. The LMNO spheres were characterized by XRD, SEM and TEM. The obtained LMNO was in a well-crystallized cubic phase with little impurity. It showed high rate capability and excellent cycling stability as a cathode material for lithium ion batteries. Initial discharge capacities of 122.0, 120.3, 119.5 and 112.1 mAh g− 1 were found at 2, 3, 5 and 10C respectively with 1C being 146.7 mA g− 1. Their capacity retentions are 92, 91, 82 and 79% respectively after 500 cycles. The as-prepared LMNO is a promising cathode material for high power and long-life lithium ion batteries.

► Facile synthesis route for LiMn1.5Ni0.5O4 sub-micrometer-sized spheres with high crystallinity
► Outstanding capacity retention (76%) even after 1500 charge/discharge cycles at 2C rate
► Good rate performance and high energy density (112 mAh g− 1 at 10C rate with 4.6 V discharge voltage plateau)