Electrochemical performance of LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 synthesised via ball-milling for Li-ion batteries

LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 powder was successfully synthesised via ball-milling, followed by calcination at temperatures of 750, 850 and 950 °C. The physical and electrochemical properties of LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 powder were characterised by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and galvanostatic charge/discharge. At a 1 C rate, LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 annealed at 750 °C displays the highest discharge capacity of 81 mAh g−1 at the first cycle and 86 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles. The smaller particle size presented by this LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 markedly enhances the rate capability by allowing sufficient contact between the active material and the electrolyte, which is beneficial for maximum diffusion and transportation of the lithium ion in the electrode.