Investigation of LiMn2O4 cathodes for use in rechargeable lithium batteries by linear sweep voltammetry: Part I. Theoretical study

Linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) is a well-known tool for electrochemical investigations. Different aspects on the use of LSV in the study of an intercalation electrode in the rechargeable lithium battery system have been studied. Mathematical models were used to simulate voltammetry responses for an intercalation material influenced by solid phase diffusion, charge transfer and IR-drop. It was shown how the peak potential and the peak current density vary with sweep rate for different rate determining processes. The simulations show that finite and semi-infinite diffusion is relatively easy to distinguish and also, these two processes behave differently from processes influenced by charge transfer and an external IR-drop. However, the separation of charge transfer and IR-drop is difficult. The use of the convolution sweep voltammetry method was also investigated. It was found that finite diffusion and a non-zero initial concentration limit the applicability in these systems.