Simultaneous Elucidation of Solid and Solution Manganese Environments via Multiphase <i>Operando</i> Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure Spectroscopy in Aqueous Zn/MnO<sub>2</sub> Batteries
Daren Wu, Lisa M. Housel, Steven T. King, Zachary R. Mansley, Nahian Sadique, Yimei Zhu, Lu Ma, Steven N. Ehrlich, Hui Zhong, Esther S. Takeuchi, Amy C. Marschilok, David C. Bock, Lei Wang, Kenneth J. Takeuchi
Abstract
species in the solid and solution phases. Complementary Raman spectroscopy was utilized to identify the less crystalline Mn-containing products formed under charge at the cathodes. This was further augmented by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to reveal the morphology and surface condition of the deposited solids. The results demonstrate an effective approach for bulk-level characterization of poorly crystalline multiphase solids while simultaneously gaining insight into the dissolved transition-metal species in solution. This work provides demonstration of a useful approach toward gaining insight into complex electrochemical mechanisms where both solid state and dissolved active materials are important contributors to redox activity.