Spinel LiMn2O4/reduced graphene oxide hybrid for high rate lithium ion batteries

Abstract

A well-crystallized and nano-sized spinel LiMn₂O₄/reduced graphene oxide hybrid cathode material for high rate lithium-ion batteries has been successfully synthesized via a microwave-assisted hydrothermal method at 200 °C for 30 min without any post heat-treatment. The nano-sized LiMn₂O₄ particles were evenly dispersed on the reduced graphene oxide template without agglomeration, which allows the inherent high active surface area of individual LiMn₂O₄ nanoparticles in the hybrid. These unique structural and morphological properties of LiMn₂O₄ on the highly conductive reduced graphene oxide sheets in the hybrid enable achieving the high specific capacity, an excellent high rate capability and stable cycling performance. An analysis of the cyclic voltammogram data revealed that a large surface charge storage contribution of the LiMn₂O₄/reduced graphene oxide hybrid plays an important role in achieving faster charge/discharge.