Proving insertion of Mg in Mn2O3 electrodes through a spectroelectrochemical study

Abstract

The scarcity of lithium in the Earth's crust makes advisable to look for batteries alternative to those of Li-ion. Magnesium batteries are suitable candidates as this metal is abundant. In this context, Mn (III) oxide is a material that could be used for the insertion of magnesium ions. Mn2O3 thin electrodes were synthesized for the first time through a hydrothermal procedure followed by heat treatment. Through cyclic voltammetry (CV) and spectroelectrochemical (UV–vis) techniques together with ex situ XPS analysis, the effective insertion of magnesium in the Mn2O3 lattice is demonstrated, which means that this material could be used as a cathode in Mg batteries. Finally, the need for nanostructuring is highlighted for practical applications.