Optimal design of LiMn2O4 for high-rate applications by means of citric acid aided route and microwave heating

Due to shortening the duration of the process and possibility to obtain crystals of smaller and uniform size, microwave heating is considered an effective and promising tool for the synthesis of LiMn2O4, a valuable cathode material for lithium-ion batteries. However, electrochemical characteristics of LiMn2O4 obtained with its help are almost completely absent and do not allow for drawing a sound conclusion regarding advantages and drawbacks of microwave processing. Here we present a description of the microwave-assisted citric acid aided synthesis, characterization and electrochemical performance of LiMn2O4. The disclosure of detailed working protocols enabling one to manufacture samples tolerant to extremely high currents is the main novelty of this paper. Specifically, our material sustains current loads up to 40 C (5920 mA g-1) and completely recovers after cycling at harsh conditions.