LiMn2O4 Lithium Manganese Oxide Cathode Material
(limn2o4)
Chemical Composition
LiMn2O4 represents lithium manganese oxide. Its formula indicates one lithium atom, two manganese atoms, and four oxygen atoms per molecule. This specific ratio is crucial for its electrochemical properties.
Crystal Structure
It crystallizes in the spinel structure. Lithium ions occupy tetrahedral sites within the lattice. Manganese ions reside in octahedral sites. Oxygen ions form a close-packed framework. This open 3D framework allows lithium ions to move easily during charging and discharging.
Key Advantages
Significant cost advantage over cobalt-based cathodes like LiCoO2. Manganese is abundant and inexpensive. Offers improved thermal stability and safety. Less prone to thermal runaway compared to cobalt oxides. Environmentally friendlier due to lower toxicity of manganese.
Performance Characteristics
Operates around 4 volts versus lithium metal. Delivers a theoretical capacity of approximately 148 mAh/g. Practical capacities are lower. Features two distinct voltage plateaus during discharge. Exhibits good rate capability due to the 3D lithium diffusion pathways.
Main Limitation
Suffers from capacity fade during cycling. Degradation is more pronounced at elevated temperatures. Manganese dissolution into the electrolyte is a primary cause. Jahn-Teller distortion at the discharged state contributes to structural instability. Cycling can lead to loss of oxygen.
Typical Applications
Widely used in lithium-ion batteries for power tools. Commonly found in electric bicycles and scooters. Used in some medical devices and power backups. Historically important cathode material. Still relevant for cost-sensitive and safety-critical applications.
Research Focus
(limn2o4)
Ongoing efforts aim to stabilize the structure. Strategies include surface coatings and bulk doping. Partial substitution of manganese with other metals improves cyclability. Examples include doping with nickel, aluminum, or magnesium. Optimizing particle morphology also enhances performance.
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