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

Abstract

Ni substituted LiMn₂O₄ nanofiber cathode materials (LiNi_xMn_2−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 ∼120 nm and microsized lengths of >5 μm. 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 LiNi_0.4Mn_1.6O₄ nanofiber cathode exhibits excellent rate capability and cycle performance both at room temperature and at 55 °C. Thus, the LiNi_0.4Mn_1.6O₄ nanofibers may be a potential cathode material for high rate discharge lithium ion batteries.