Abstract

Potential advantages of active electrode nanomaterials have led to development of high energy and power density lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries. However, under increasing demand for critical resources such as lithium and cobalt, it is necessary to use abundant raw materials, which can be obtained from industrial waste. In this work, purified Mg(OH)(2) from waste generated in the production of Li2CO3 with natural brines from the Salar de Atacama (Chile) is used as a doping agent for synthesis of LiMn2O4 (LMO) spinel octahedral nanoparticles co-doped with excess Li and Mg. Crystallization of a pure cubic spinel phase (Fd (3) over barm) takes place at 500 degrees C and sintering temperature effect at 580 and 750 degrees C, thus the elemental composition and the structural, morphological, and electrochemical properties are studied in detail. Optimum electrochemical performance at room temperature is obtained for Li1.03Mg0.05Mn1.92O4 spinel sintered at 750 degrees C with an initial discharge capacity of 121.3 mAh.g(-1) and capacity retention of 94.0% after 100 cycles at C/3. A locally ordered spinel structure is obtained at 750 degrees C, and doping with Mg2+ improves structural rigidity. Synergy between both effects resulted in a high Li+ diffusion rate (1.29 x 10(-9) cm(2).s(-1)) significantly improving cycling performance at elevated C-rates in 50 degrees C.