In order to improve the initial discharge efficiency of Li[Li0.2Ni0.2Mn0.6]O-2 as cathode material for rechargeable lithium batteries, Li [Li0.2Ni0.2Mn0.6]O-2 synthesized by a solid state method was preconditioned in acids. The product was characterized by XRD and SEM. It is found that the first discharge efficiency of Li[Li0.2Ni0.2Mn0.6]O-2 after acid treatment had been greatly improved, but the mid-voltage sharply decreased. The treatment with 0.5 mol.L-1 HNO3 for 5 h was the best result, the efficiency reached 86.7%, meanwhile, the discharge capacity reached maximum faster than before. The reason of acid leaching modification was attributed to the appearance of the spinel structure Li4Mn5O12 phase with rich lithium.