Synthesis and characterization of LiMn 2O 4/Ag composite by citrate gel and combustion method

Abstract

The powder of LiMn 2O 4/Ag composite was prepared by citrate gel and combustion technique using lithium acetate, manganese acetate and silver nitrate as starting materials. Phase identification, surface morphology and electrochemical properties were studied by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, galvanostatic charge–discharge experiments, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results show that the powder is the composite of LiMn 2O 4 and Ag metal, and silver disperses homogeneously in LiMn 2O 4 particles. Compared with LiMn 2O 4, LiMn 2O 4/Ag composite has higher specific capacity, higher columbic efficiency and lower polarization. The additive of Ag improves the cycleability of LiMn 2O 4 powders, especially at higher charge–discharge rate.