Well-formed Li1.131Mn0.504Ni0.243Co0.122O2 cathode materials are synthesized via freeze drying followed by a solid state reaction at temperatures of 750-900 degrees C. Among these oxides, the one synthesized at 800 degrees C delivers the highest initial discharge capacity of 246.5 mAh g(-1), at 0.1 C (1 C = 200 mA g(-1)) between 2.5 V and 4.8 V. Enhancing the discharge rate to 1 C, initial capacity of 197.8 mAh g(-1) is obtained, and 78.8% capacity is retained after 50 cycles. Furthermore, the diffusion coefficients of Li+ in the lithium-rich layered oxide are about 10(-14) cm(2) s(-1) and 10(-15) cm(2) s(-1) for the initial charge platform at 3.90 V and 4.55 V. respectively, determined by galvanostatic intermittent titration technique (GMT). The Li1.131Mn0.504Ni0.243Co0.122O2 prepared by freeze drying is a promising cathode material for lithium ion batteries. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.