Synthesis and improved electrochemical properties of Li₂MnSiO₄ cathodes

Superior performance Li₂MnSiO₄ cathodes with flower-like morphology are prepared by hydrothermal route for the first time. An x-ray diffraction pattern confirms the formation of the orthorhombic structure with Pmn2₁ space group. The prepared Li₂MnSiO₄ materials are subjected to heat treatment at 700 °C to achieve complete crystallization in the presence of adipic acid. The Li/Li₂MnSiO₄ cells delivered an initial discharge capacity 73 and 100 mAh g⁻¹ for as-synthesized and heat-treated Li₂MnSiO₄, respectively. It is surprising to note that heat-treated Li₂MnSiO₄ exhibits more stable and superior cycling performance than reported values elsewhere, which is due to the unique morphology as well as carbon coating derived from the carbonization of adipic acid.