Energetic Zinc Ion Chemistry: The Rechargeable Zinc Ion Battery

Think zinc: An ideal aqueous energy storage device, referred to as a zinc ion battery, is presented. The device is characterized by high capacity, fast charge/discharge capability, safety, and environmental friendliness. It is composed of an α-MnO2 cathode, a zinc anode, and a mild ZnSO4 or Zn(NO3)2 aqueous electrolyte (see scheme). The battery chemistry is based on the migration of Zn2+ ions between cathode and anode.