Integrated Materials xLisub 2MnOsub 3⋅(1−x)LiMnsub 1/3Nisub 1/3Cosub 1/3Osub 2 (x=0.3, 0.5, 0.7) Synthesized

We report herein on the synthesis of "layered-layered" integrated materials (, 0.5, and 0.7) using the self-combustion reaction in solutions containing metal nitrates and sucrose. The nanoparticles of these materials were obtained by further annealing of the as-prepared product in air at for 1 h and submicrometric particles were obtained by further annealing at for 22 h. The effect of composition on the electrochemical performance was explored in this work. By a rigorous study with high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), it became clear that the syntheses with the above stoichiometries produce two-phase materials comprising nanodomains of both rhombohedral -like and monoclinic structures, which are closely integrated and interconnected with one another at the atomic level. Stable reversible capacities were obtained with composite electrodes containing submicrometer particles of . Structural aspects, activation of the monoclinic component, and stabilization mechanisms are thoroughly discussed using Raman spectroscopy, solid-state NMR, HRTEM, and X-ray diffraction (including Rietveld analysis) in conjunction with electrochemical measurements. This work provides a further indication that this family of integrated compounds contains the most promising cathode materials for high energy density Li-ion batteries.