End-of-life Zn–MnO2 batteries: electrode materials characterization

This study investigates the characterization of electrode materials from end-of-life Zn–MnO2 batteries to assess their potential for recycling and recovery of valuable components. The objective is to understand the chemical and structural properties of these materials in order to evaluate sustainable practices for battery disposal. Methodologically, the research involves a comprehensive analysis using various characterization techniques including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The results indicate that significant amounts of manganese and zinc can be recovered from the used batteries, proving their value as raw materials for new batteries or other applications. Furthermore, the characterization reveals distinct morphological and compositional changes in the electrode materials, providing insights into the degradation processes of the electrodes during battery usage. This research emphasizes the importance of developing effective recycling strategies for end-of-life batteries and highlights the environmental benefits of material recovery initiatives in managing electronic waste.