Structural modeling via XRD Rietveld refinement (Figure ) shows the precursor consists of monoclinic (oxy)hydroxide (Cm, 99.8 mol%, metals basis) and an impurity spinel (I 4 1 /amd, 0.2 mol%) phase. Mn 3 O 4 spinel is an expected impurity in coprecipitated mixed Ni-Mn hydroxides in increasing concentrations with Mn fraction. Anisotropic peak broadening is observed for all planes not parallel to the TM layers, indicating layer sliding without loss of layering, i.e., turbostratic disorder. This is expected upon drying, even at temperatures < 100°C, as Mn(OH) 2 will oxidize at ambient conditions and layer sliding is required to maintain optimal hydrogen bonding through this oxidation. The Stephens model for anisotropic strain gives a reasonable fit for the turbostratic disorder. The precursor structure can be qualitatively understood and effectively captured in a structural refinement.