LaMnO_x Air Diffusion Cathode for Primary Alkali Batteries

Abstract: Electrochemical performance of a new type of high-current air cathode is compared to off-the-shelf air electrodes (Alupower-A series; Eltech-B; Duracell-C) in 35% KOH solution. LaMnO_x (LAM) is made by precipitation method resulting with sub-micron size particles. The electrode is single layer and very resistant to the KOH leakage. Approximately 65 m² g^–1 surface area is favorable for effective catalyst distribution and electrochemical active area utilization. LaMnO_x type catalyst-supported electrode performs comparable or better than many of the commercial samples. Electrode shows a voltage drop of less than 200 mV at 150 mA cm^–2 current density. Electrode structure does not show any sign of mass transfer limitation up to 250 mA cm^–2.