The Sodium Storage Mechanism in Tunnel-Type Na_0.44MnO₂ Cathodes and the Way to Ensure Their Durable Operation

Tunnel-type sodium manganese oxide is a promising cathode material for aqueous/nonaqueous sodium-ion batteries, however its storage mechanism is not fully understood, in part due to the complicated sodium intercalation process. In addition, low cyclability due to manganese dissolution has limited its practical application in rechargeable batteries. Here, the intricate sodium intercalation mechanism of Na_0.44MnO₂ is revealed by combination of electrochemical characterization, structure determination from powder X-ray diffraction data, 3D bond valence difference maps, and barrier-energy calculations of the sodium diffusion. NaI is proposed as an important electrolyte solution additive. It is shown to form a thin, beneficial, and durable cathode surface film that prevents manganese dissolution. The addition of 0.01 m NaI to electrolyte solutions based on alkyl carbonate solvents and NaClO₄ greatly improves the cycling efficiency, raising the capacity retention from 86% to 96% after 600 cycles. This study determines the core aspects of the sodium intercalation mechanism in tunnel-type sodium manganese oxide and shows how it can serve as a durable cathode material for rechargeable Na batteries.