Extending the Cyclability of Alkaline Zinc–Air Batteries: Synergistic Roles of Li⁺ and K⁺ Ions in Electrodics

Tweaking the electrolyte of the anode compartment of zinc–air battery (ZAB) system is shown to be extending the charge–discharge cyclability of the cell. An alkaline zinc (Zn)–air cell working for ∼32 h (192 cycles) without failure is extended to >55 h (>330 cycles) by modifying the anode compartment with a mixture electrolyte of KOH and LiOH. The cell containing the mixture electrolyte has a low overpotential for charging along with high discharge capacity. The role of Li⁺ ions in tuning the electrode morphology and electrodics is studied both theoretically and experimentally. The synergistic effect of Li⁺ and K⁺ ions in the electrolyte on improved ZAB performance is proven. This study can pave new ways for the commercial implementation of ZAB, where it has already proven its potential in low-cost, high energy density, and mobility applications.