Synthesis of Mg-doped LiMn2O4 powders for lithium-ion batteries by rotary heating

In order to improve the mixing uniformity and also to ensure the homogeneity of the particle size of the prepared Mg-doped LiMn2O4 compounds, rotary heating was used as a synthesis technique. The starting materials, Li2CO3, MgO and MnO2, were mixed uniformly using a traditional ball milling, which resulted in a uniform particle size distribution in the mixed powders. LiMg0.1Mn1.9O4 powders were synthesized at 700–900 °C using a rotary furnace. The LiMg0.1Mn1.9O4 powder with a narrow particle size distribution synthesized at 800 °C for 15 h presents the best electrochemical performance, which delivers an initial discharge capacity of 119 mA h g−1 and exhibits a good cycle stability. The method of rotary heating should be an attractive technique for the industrial production of doped spinels.