Ag/MnO cathode with disordered structure and d-band center negative downwards for efficient LiOH decomposition in LiO2 batteries

Lithium hydroxide (LiOH) as a discharge product with high conductivity and low overpotential in lithium-oxygen batteries (Li O 2 batteries) has received extensive attention. However, the incomplete decomposition of LiOH during the charge process remains a critical issue hindering the practical application of high-performance Li O 2 batteries. Developing suitable cathode catalysts is essential to address this challenge. Here, we constructed an Ag-regulated MnO cathode catalyst with disordered structure to promote LiOH decomposition, thereby improving the electrochemical performance. The introduction of Ag breaks the long-range ordered structure of MnO. Compared to that of MnO, the d-band center of Ag/MnO shifts downward from the Fermi level. This weakens the strong adsorption strength between the cathode and oxygen-containing intermediates, resulting in more moderate adsorption energy of these intermediates on the cathode surface, which facilitates the complete decomposition of discharge product. Additionally, the active sites of the Ag/MnO cathode remained stable, with LiOH decomposed completely. This work provides new insights into the development of efficient LiOH-decomposing cathode catalysts for Li O 2 batteries.