Abstract: A method of producing a particulate lithium metal oxide cathode material comprising the steps of providing an organic acid, providing a lithium compound, and providing a metal compound. The organic acid, the lithium compound, and the metal compound are mixed to form a mixture. The organic acid is melted to form a liquid organic acid, if the organic acid is provided as a solid. The mixture, including the liquid organic acid, is cCalcined in an atmosphere containing oxygen to form a lithium metal oxide. The lithium metal oxide is cooled and sized to produce the particulate lithium metal oxide having a predetermined average particle size.