Recent Advances in Aqueous Zn||MnO2 Batteries
Chuan Li, Rong Zhang, Huilin Cui, Yanbo Wang, Guojin Liang, Chunyi Zhi
Abstract
Abstract Recently, rechargeable aqueous zinc-based batteries using manganese oxide as the cathode (e.g., MnO 2 ) have gained attention due to their inherent safety, environmental friendliness, and low cost. Despite their potential, achieving high energy density in Zn||MnO 2 batteries remains challenging, highlighting the need to understand the electrochemical reaction mechanisms underlying these batteries more deeply and optimize battery components, including electrodes and electrolytes. This review comprehensively summarizes the latest advancements for understanding the electrochemistry reaction mechanisms and designing electrodes and electrolytes for Zn||MnO 2 batteries in mildly and strongly acidic environments. Furthermore, we highlight the key challenges hindering the extensive application of Zn||MnO 2 batteries, including high-voltage requirements and areal capacity, and propose innovative solutions to overcome these challenges. We suggest that MnO 2 /Mn 2+ conversion in neutral electrolytes is a crucial aspect that needs to be addressed to achieve high-performance Zn||MnO 2 batteries. These approaches could lead to breakthroughs in the future development of Zn||MnO 2 batteries, offering a more sustainable, cost-effective, and high-performance alternative to traditional batteries.