Boosting the stable Li storage performance in one-dimensional LiLaxMn2-xO4 nanorods at elevated temperature

Abstract Spinel LiMn2O4 is regarded as a promising positive material candidate for contemporary lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, its development is hindered by the poor Li+ diffusion during high charge/discharge rates and unstable cyclic performance associated with Mn dissolution under elevated temperature. Herein, a facile hydrothermal method with solid-state calcination is introduced to design one-dimensional (1D) La-doped LiMn2O4 nanorods and ultimately enhance their cathode utilization in high-temperature and long-cycling conditions. Surprisingly, LiLa0.03Mn1.97O4 nanorods exhibit excellent high-temperature cyclic performance for over 1000 cycles, and deliver a promising discharge capacity of 87.2 mAh g−1 at 20C rate. Furthermore, theoretical calculations confirm that compared with the pristine sample, a lower bandgap and dispersed distribution of electrons are also strong evidence of the improved electrochemical performance of LiMn2O4 after La doping. This research offers a new strategy to achieve high-performance LiMn2O4-based positive materials for the development of advanced LIBs.