The discharge mechanism was studied by x-ray diffraction, XPS, and electrochem. methods. The chem. diffusion coefficient of Li in the oxide cathode was determine by constant current intermittent titration method to be ~10-9 cm2/s. The mechanism involves intercalation of Li into layer structure of Li2MnO3 followed by thermal relaxation into g-b-MnO2 lattice.

Key words: AUGER ELECTRON SPECTROMETRY, X-RAY DIFFRACTION ANALYSIS, MANGANESE OXIDE, X-RAY PHOTOELECTRON SPECTROMETRY, LITHIUM, LITHIUM MANGANATE