Self-discharge of rechargeable hybrid aqueous battery

Many components of the cathode play roles in self-discharge performance of the rechargeable hybrid aqueous battery (ReHAB). Effects of amount and type of conductive additives are investigated, and carbonaceous material of low specific surface area yields the best performance. The self-discharge mechanism involves the cathode active material and contains a reversible and an irreversible process. The reversible portion is predominant and related to lithium re-intercalation into the LiMn₂O₄ spinel framework, accompanied by Zn dissolution into the electrolyte. The irreversible portion of self-discharge possibly involves decomposition of LiMn₂O₄ in the acidic electrolyte, and is much less extensive than the reversible process.