Noble-Metal Free Zinc-Air Battery Catalysts

Abstract

Zinc-Air Batteries (ZABs) are a promising solution for grid-scale storage. In this work, ZAB chemistry is reviewed and the role of catalysts at the cathode is explained. Transition metal oxides are an economical substitute for noble-metal based catalysts. However, their poor electrical conductivity requires additional efforts in catalyst activation. This is commonly done by reducing particle size and increasing electrical access which can be done simultaneously by hybridizing with carbon derivatives such as reduced graphene oxide.