Grant: Idea to Innovation

With the emerging interest in low cost and long-duration scalable energy storage for enhanced grid resiliency and integration of renewables into the electricity grid, rechargeability of zinc-manganese dioxide (Zn-MnO2) chemistry presents a significant opportunity due to high abundance of its low-cost raw material. With the established primary "alkaline" battery supply-chain, the technology is projected to have one of the lowest production and maintenance costs among energy storage options, with ten times lower cost per energy stored than lithium ion and without the safety and environmental concerns. Despite notable advancements, Zn-MnO2 chemistry still faces challenges such as capacity retention issues during slow cycling and when resting in a discharged state. Additionally, achieving higher energy density, a critical requirement for grid storage and other applications, has proven difficult even though it holds theoretical potential comparable to lithium-ion batteries.Our team has made significant progress in this field by developing a rechargeable zinc-manganese dioxide battery in a mildly acidic aqueous solution. Through innovative synthesis techniques, microstructural adjustments, and the use of novel additives, we have achieved a remarkable increase in cycle life, with 1650 cycles demonstrated so far at practical 0.25C (equivalent to 4 hours of charge and 4 hours of discharge), while maintaining above 92% of the capacity.The planned work will provide demonstrations in coin cells and small-scale packaged cells, in preparation for scaling to larger form factors. This I2I Phase 1 grant will support the demonstration of batteries with the capacity, energy storage density, and cyclability needed to justify further investment in scaling up size and production. Success will pave the way for the commercialization of a safe and cost-effective storage technology for grid applications that is appropriate for widespread adoption, contributing to the transition towards a net-zero future.