Synthesis and superior cathode performance of sandwiched LiMn2O4@rGO nanocomposites for lithium-ion batteries

Spinel LiMn2O4 nanoparticles (NPs) loaded on reduced graphene oxide are prepared via a facile one-pot solvothermal method. The samples are characterized by transmission electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and thermogravimetry analysis. The resultant LiMn2O4-reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites material shows better performances as cathode for lithium-ion batteries than pure LiMn2O4 or physical mixing of LiMn2O4 and reduced graphene oxide. The LiMn2O4-reduced graphene oxide retains about 110 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C after 150 cycles, indicating a better cycling stability than pure LiMn2O4 electrode. The resistance of the LiMn2O4-reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite cell presents great reduction due to the existence of reduced graphene oxide. The wrapping of reduced graphene oxide on LiMn2O4 NPs provides a few-layer conduct fishnet structure, which can greatly shorten the electron transfer path. This work shows the potential applications of the LiMn2O4-reduced graphene oxide as cathode material for high-power lithium-ion batteries. Keywords: Lithium-ion batteries cathode, Lithium manganese oxide, Graphene nanosheets, Nanocomposite