Large-scale synthesis of LiMn2O4 cathode materials via a rheology-assisted solid-phase method using citric acid

Although they possess a high working voltage and environmental compatibility, and are low in cost with abundant resources, the poor cycling performance and rapid capacity attenuation of LiMn2O4 cathodes at high temperature restrict their extensive application. In this study, LiMn2O4 materials are synthesized by a simple rheology-assisted solid-phase method using citric acid as an additive. The citric acid improves the uniformity of the mixed raw materials, resulting in a reduction in particle agglomeration. Consequently, the synthesized LiMn2O4 shows an initial capacity of 117.4 mA h g−1 with a capacity retention of 79.50% at 2C after 300 cycles and 54.78% of the initial discharge capacity at 20C. This work provides a strategy for modifying multicomponent transition metal oxides for advanced lithium-ion batteries.