The Spinel LiCoMnO4: 5V cathode and conversion anode

LiCoMnO4 was made at 550 °C in 2 h using a novel biotemplating synthetic methodology. High temperature heat treatment under flowing N2 was then used to prepare the cation-disordered rock salt, LiCoMnO3. We demonstrate for the first time that both phases can operate as conversion anodes in lithium-ion batteries, operating at ~ 0.7 V with specific capacities of ~ 400 mAh g-1. We also demonstrate that 1,3-propane sultone can be used as an electrolytic additive to provide a modest boost to specific capacity in cells cycled at high potentials with LiCoMnO4 as the cathode.