Influence of Al2(SO4)3 Electrolyte Additive on Cell Potential and Reaction Mechanism in Aqueous Acidic Zn–MnO2 Batteries

Abstract

Aqueous Zn–MnO2 batteries are promising alternatives to lithium-ion batteries due to their inherent safety, low cost, and environmental compatibility. The incorporation of aluminum ions has been shown to enhance their performance by increasing operating voltage and cathode stability. However, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood due to complex cathode reactions involving the dissolution, migration, and redeposition of manganese species. Herein, the effects of pH and aluminum sulfate (Al2(SO4)3) on the electrochemical performance and reaction mechanisms of Zn–MnO2 batteries are investigated. The addition of Al2(SO4)3 to the electrolyte increases the discharge voltage from 1.4 to ≈1.7 V (vs. Zn/Zn2+), primarily due to changes in the redox potential of the MnO2 cathode rather than the Zn anode. This enhancement correlates with the maintenance of a highly acidic environment (pH ≈ 1.1), regardless of the presence of Al3+. Additionally, Al2(SO4)3 suppresses the formation of zinc hydroxysulfate, typically observed during discharge in Al2(SO4)3-free systems, while promoting the precipitation of aluminum hydroxysulfate (AlHS), which is influenced by the depth-of-discharge. The presence of AlHS improves the oxidation kinetics of Mn2+ during charging. These findings highlight electrolyte pH and AlHS formation as critical factors in enhancing the electrochemical performance of Zn–MnO2 batteries. © 2025 Wiley-VCH GmbH.