Optimization of Insertion Compounds Such as LiMnsub 2Osub 4 for Li-Ion Batteries

The spinel whose electrochemical activity with Li was discovered in the early 1980s, was put forth in the early 1990s as a possible alternative to as a positive electrode material for Li-ion batteries. Ten years later, the Li-ion cells are on the verge of entering the portable electronics and electric/hybrid vehicle market. This paper retraces the key steps of this decade that were necessary to master the intimate physical/electrochemical relationship of and that led to the development of rechargeable Li-ion technology. During the long development period, the early supremacy of as the only alternative to diminished with the development of positive electrode materials that present abundance and cost advantages. Despite the uncertainty of the future of the spinel, successfully translating a fundamental success into a commercial one, we stress that the long learning experience will benefit the scientific battery community aiming at rapidly optimizing the electrochemical performance of alternative materials, such as © 2002 Telcordia Technologies. All rights reserved.