LAUSR

Abstract Minimal Mn dissolution was achieved with surface Mn4+-rich phase-modified truncated octahedral spinel LiMn2O4 with exposed {111} planes, which was synthesized via a simple hydrothermal reaction, followed by high temperature calcination in an oxygen atmosphere. The calcination atmosphere had a significant influence on the formation of the surface Mn4+-rich phase-modified layer; LiMn2O4 without a surface Mn4+-rich phase was obtained by calcination in an air atmosphere. Benefiting from the unique structure, the as-prepared LiMn2O4 exhibited an excellent rate capability and prolonged cycle stability, delivering a discharge capacity of 101 mAh g−1 and capacity retention rates of about 94% and 88% after 500 and 1000 cycles at 1C, respectively, compared to a discharge capacity of 86 mAh g−1 and a capacity retention rate of about 86% after 500 cycles at 1C for the LiMn2O4 prepared in an air atmosphere. The synergistic effect of the unique truncated octahedral morphology of spinel LiMn2O4 with {111} exposed planes and the modification of the surface Mn-rich phase endowed the composite with excellent electrochemical properties.