Innovative strategies to Counteract Jahn-Teller effect in manganese oxide for enhanced zinc-ion battery performance

Due to its high energy density, non-toxic, economical and efficient, manganese oxide stands out as a promising cathode material for employment in aqueous zinc-ion batteries. However, the Jahn-Teller effect of Mn3+ and manganese dissolution impose limitations on the widespread application of aqueous zinc-ion batteries during charging and discharging. Herein, the Co doped Mn2O3 electrode material is introduced. Co atoms in the low valence state replace Mn in the manganese oxide lattice, which effectively regulates the layer spacing of Mn2O3. This modulation maintains the structural stability of the electrode during cycling, prevents structural collapse, and inhibits manganese dissolution and the Jahn-Teller effect. Additionally, Co doping increased oxygen vacancies and improved the conductivity of zinc-ion batteries. The Co-Mn2O3 electrode exhibits a high specific capacity of 478 mAh·g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 current density, with 93 % capacity retention 1000 cycles at 1 A g−1 current density. This study delves into the role of Co doping in suppressing the Jahn-Teller effect, offering new insights for improving manganese oxide as an anode material for zinc-ion batteries. This study introduces a high-capacity Co-doped Mn₂O₃ electrode material. Cobalt atoms replace manganese in the Mn₂O₃ lattice, effectively regulating layer spacing and maintaining structural stability during cycling. Meanwhile, the introduction of cobalt prevents structural collapse, inhibits manganese dissolution, and suppresses the Jahn-Teller effect. Additionally, Co doping increases oxygen vacancies and improves conductivity. [Display omitted] •Co doping in Mn₂O₃ regulates layer spacing, maintaining structural integrity.•Co suppresses Jahn-Teller distortion of Mn³⁺ and prevents Mn dissolution.•Co doping increases oxygen vacancies, boosting electrode conductivity.