To improve the cycle performance of eco-friendly and cost-effective spinel LiMn2O4 as the cathode of 4 V class Li secondary batteries, the spinel phase LiCrxMn2-xO4 (x = 0.01-0.20) was synthesized by soft chemistry method using oxalic acid as chelating agent. The present technique results in better homogeneity, good surface morphology, shorter heat treatment time, sub-micron sized particles, good agglomeration and better crystallinity. Electrochemical studies were monitored in the potential range of 3-4.5 V The present paper reveals that chromium substituted manganese spinel improves the structural stability of the parent material. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.