Phytic Acid Anions-Mediated Surface Charge Modulation of Manganese Oxide for High-Rate and Stable Zn//MnO₂ Batteries

Abstract

MnO₂ has been considered as a promising cathode for aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) due to its environmental benignity, low cost, and high theoretical capacity. However, the severe Mn²⁺ dissolution and sluggish interfacial reaction kinetics of MnO₂ dramatically impede its practical applications. Herein, the phytic acid anion-functionalized MnO₂ (PCA-MO) cathode with electron-rich surface is reported for high-performance AZIBs. Specifically, phytic acid anion with lone pairs of electrons can increase surface charge density and form stronger interactions with Zn²⁺, achieving interfacial Zn²⁺ enrichment and promoting charge transfer. Moreover, the phytic acid anion layer acts as a protective barrier, preventing direct contact between the electrode and the electrolyte, thereby effectively suppressing Mn²⁺ dissolution. Therefore, the PCA-MO delivers high specific capacity (332 mAh g^-1 at 0.2 A g^-1), superior rate performance (111 mAh g^-1 at 5.0 A g^-1), and long-term cycling stability for 1000 cycles at 2.0 A g^-1. This work provides new insights into developing high-performance Mn-based cathodes for aqueous batteries.

Keywords

aqueous zinc batteries / interfacial reaction kinetics / MnO₂ / phytic acid anions

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