A stable ZnMn2O4 cathode for aqueous Zn-ion batteries via Ni doping to suppress Mn dissolution

ZnMn2O4 (ZMO) emerges as a promising cathode for aqueous Zn-ion batteries due to its high theoretical capacity of 224 mAh g−1 and operating voltage of ∼1.9 V (vs. Zn2+/Zn). However, it suffers from capacity degradation over cycling, attributed to the dissolution of redox-active Mn through Mn3+ disproportionation. In this study, we propose a strategy to stabilize ZMO cathodes by transforming Mn3+ into Mn4+ via Ni doping, aiming for charge balance. The ZnMn2−xNixO4 (x = 0, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5) with different Ni amounts was prepared by straightforward precipitation and calcination. The mitigation of redox-active Mn dissolution enhanced the specific capacity of all Ni-doped ZMO compared to 201 mAh g−1 of ZMO. ZnMn1.5Ni0.5O4 and ZnMnNiO4 exhibit 277 and 278 mAh g−1, respectively, surpassing ZMO’s theoretical capacity (224 mAh g−1) of ZMO. This additional capacity was attributed to MnOx deposition on the cathode and the charge storage reaction with Zn-ion within the MnOx deposit. Furthermore, Ni doping induces a structural transition of the tetragonal into a cubic spinel, expanding the unit cell volume. This structural modification combined with suppressed Mn dissolution contributes to improved cycling stability. ZnMnNiO4 exhibits 80 % retention of initial capacity after 1000 cycles, outperforming ZMO (57 % retention). The expanded unit cell reduces repulsion between inserted Zn ions, enabling a higher rate performance than pure ZMO. The change in Mn valence states induced by Ni doping enhanced the lifespan and rate capability of ZMO cathodes, underscoring their potential as cathodes for Zn-ion batteries. [Display omitted] •Ni-doped ZnMn2O4 was prepared by simple precipitation and calcination.•Ni2+ doping in ZnMn2O4 reduced Mn3+ contents, decreasing Mn dissolution.•Ni-doped ZMO showed enhanced stability based on suppressed Mn dissolution.•ZnMnNiO4 showed the highest capacity retention of 80 % after 1000 cycles.•Expansion of the ZMO unit cell by Ni dopant enhances the rate performance.