Mg, Cu-doped Manganese Oxides for Lithium Battery Applications

Abstract

Magnesium and copper doped manganese oxides, meant for use as lithium battery cathode materials, have been prepared by oxidation of Mn(II) precursors in the presence of Mg(II) and Cu(II) in an aqueous solution at ambient temperature. This oxidation procedure offers numerous advantages such as environmental suitability, cost-efficiency, and good control over the chemical composition and morphology of the synthesized powders. X-ray diffraction of synthesized powders reveals an amorphous structure. Notably, upon charge discharge cycling the material shows little or no capacity fading after gradual fading in the first few cycles. This suggests that the amorphous structure containing magnesium and copper yields a stable material. Electrochemical characterization of these cathode materials showed a specific capacity of 150- 200 mAh/g.