The layered LiMn1/3Ni1/3Co1/3O2 cathode materials were synthesized by an oxalate co-precipitation method using different starting materials of LiOH, LiNO3, [Mn1/3Ni1/3Co1/3]C(2)O(4)(.)2H(2)O and [Mn1/3Ni1/3Co1/3](3)O-4. The morphology, structural and electrochemical behavior were characterized by means of SEM, X-ray diffraction analysis and electrochemical charge-discharge test. The cathode material synthesized by using LiNO3 and [Mn1/3Ni1/3Co1/3]C(2)O(4)(.)2H(2)O showed higher structural integrity and higher reversible capacity of 178.6 mAh g(-1) in the voltage range 3.0-4.5 V versus Li with constant current density of 40 mA g(-1) as well as lower irreversible capacity loss of 12.9% at initial cycle. The rate capability of the cathode was strongly influenced by particle size and specific surface area. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.