Activating High‐Loading Cathodes Using Percolative Graphite in Rechargeable Alkaline Zn–MnO ₂ Batteries

ABSTRACT Due to the inherently insulating nature of MnO ₂ , the performance of rechargeable alkaline Zn–MnO ₂ batteries is critically influenced by the conductive framework within the cathodes. Conventional approaches to achieving a percolating network in thick MnO ₂ cathodes typically involve either large quantities of low‐surface‐area graphite or employing high‐surface‐area carbon materials such as Ketjen black and graphene. However, these strategies present significant trade‐offs: excessive graphite reduces active material loading and energy density, while nanocarbons promote undesirable side reactions that compromise cycling stability. In this study, we introduce cost‐effective percolative graphite (PG) with moderate surface area as an effective conductive additive that balances conductivity and surface reactivity. The resulting electrodes, composed of commercial γ ‐MnO ₂ and PG, deliver practical energy densities and superior cycling stability in conventional alkaline electrolytes at the pouch‐cell level. These findings underscore the importance of rational conductive network engineering and present guidance in developing high‐performance rechargeable Zn–MnO ₂ batteries for practical applications.