Solvent Free Mechano-Chemical Approach for the Preparation of Manganese Dioxide as Cathode Component for Aqueous Rechargeable Zinc Ion Batteries

Abstract

Aqueous rechargeable zinc-ion batteries (ARZIBs) have emerged as promising candidates for cost-effective and environmentally friendly energy storage solutions. However, achieving energy densities comparable to commercial lithium-ion batteries requires the development of advanced cathode materials. In this study, we present a simple, solvent-free mechano-chemical method for synthesizing manganese dioxide (MnO₂) as a cathode material for ARZIBs. The structural and morphological properties of the prepared MnO₂ were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The FTIR spectrum showed a characteristic Mn–O stretching vibration at 529 cm⁻¹, while XRD confirmed the formation of a tetragonal α-MnO₂ phase. SEM analysis revealed porous surface morphology with particle size variation, and EDX confirmed the elemental composition of Mn and O only. Electrochemical performance was evaluated using cyclic voltammetry (CV) at a scan rate of 1 mV/s in a CR2032 coin cell, which exhibited distinct and reversible redox peaks. These results indicate the effectiveness of the prepared MnO₂ as a viable cathode material for aqueous zinc-ion batteries.

Journal of Engineering Science 16(1), 2025, 93-102