In this paper we show that the lithium manganese spinel, Li1+xMn2O4 with Lithium excess up to x=0.2 can be prepared using the Pechini-method which starts off with aqueous solutions of nitrates. The characterization of the samples by AAS and X-ray diffraction exhibits single phase material. X-ray absorption (XAS) experiments at the Mn-K edge lead to the conclusion that spinel with stoichiometry Li1+xMn2O4 (0 less than or equal tox less than or equal to0.2) is formed. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.