Li₂MnSiO₄ nanostructured cathodes for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are increasingly finding applications in new consumer products ranging from portable electronic devices to electric vehicles. These new applications place stringent demands on the performance of the batteries and require novel electrode combinations to meet these requirements. The use of new electrode materials becomes feasible when they are synthesised in nanostructured form, with complex structures and morphologies. In this review article, the case of the lithium-ion battery cathode lithium manganese orthosilicate (Li₂MnSiO₄) will be examined with particular emphasis on the methods of synthesis, the nanostructured morphologies generated and the resulting changes in electrochemical performance compared to that of the material in its bulk form