Doped NaMnOx cathodes for Zn-MnO2 batteries for improved capacity and rechargeability

Zn-MnO2 batteries are safe, low cost, and have a high energy density comparable to Li-ion batteries. This study focuses on finding a new MnO2-based cathode composition for rechargeable mildly acidic Zn-MnO2 battery. For this purpose, a combinatorial approach was used, and thick film cathodes were deposited on nickel substrates using sputter targets MnO2, Na0.7MnO2, NiO and Bi2O3. A total of 36 cathodes were produced over a wide compositional range. The study has shown two regions of high rechargeable capacity, one centered on Bi0.02Na0.63Ni0.02Mn0.33Oxand the other on Bi0.04Na0.37Ni0.06Mn0.53Oxto be developed as cathodes using conventional slurry method.