Elucidating the intercalation mechanism of zinc ions into alpha-MnO2 for rechargeable zinc batteries

The intercalation mechanism of zinc ions into 2 x 2 tunnels of an alpha-MnO2 cathode for rechargeable zinc batteries was revealed. It involves a series of single and two-phase reaction steps and produces buserite, a layered compound with an interlayer spacing of 11 angstrom as a discharge product.