LiMn2O4 thin films are prepared by the sol-gel method. The discharge capacity and cycling performance of the films are determined to investigate the electrochemical properties. By controlling the fabrication conditions, the excellent rechargeability is observed in a test cell which contains the LiMn2O4 thin film. Possible factors which have been reported as causes for capacity loss with cycling are reviewed and those producing excellent rechargeability of the LiMn2O4 thin films are identified. Attention is especially focused on the relaxation of the stress, which is generated during intercalation/de-intercalation process. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.