Composition optimization and electrochemical properties of Mg-Al-Sn-Mn alloy anode for Mg-air batteries

The effect of Al, Sn and Mn on the electrochemical properties of extruded magnesium alloy anode was systematically investigated by orthogonal design. The optimal combination, Mg-6Al-1Sn-0.4Mn alloy anode, was obtained through comprehensive analysis. The combination was further verified by the characterization of microstructure, composition and electrochemical performance. The average discharge potential reaches -1.602 V (vs. SCE), showing obvious discharge superiority against the trial samples. The research result is also of value to the development of low cost, non-toxic and well-performance magnesium alloy anode. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.