SOLUBLE OXYGEN EVOLVING CATALYSTS FOR RECHARGEABLE METAL-AIR BATTERIES

摘要

Rechargeable metal-air battery, air electrodes for use in the metal-air battery, and methods to manufacture the same are provided. The battery includes a negative electrode capable of taking and releasing active metal ions, a porous positive electrode using oxygen as an electroactive material and an electrolyte configured to conduct ions between the negative and positive electrodes and comprising one or more phases, wherein at least one phase comprises a liquid that at least partially fills the pores of the positive electrode and wherein the liquid comprises an oxygen evolving catalyst (OEC). The OEC a) is soluble in the liquid of the phase that partially fills the positive electrode pores, b) is electrochemically activated at a potential above the equilibrium cell voltage and c) is capable of evolving oxygen gas by oxidizing a metal oxide discharge product produced during discharge of the rechargeable metal-air battery.