Optimisation of discharge characteristics on fully screen-printed Zn|MnO2 batteries by electrode rearrangement

Electrical and electrochemical performance parameters of fully screen-printed primary zinc–manganese dioxide (Zn|MnO2) batteries were optimised by a simple electrode-rearrangement. Galvanostatic electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements were used to study the effect of an increased electrode interfacial area on battery impedances. Initial charge transfer resistances could be decreased from 150 Ω to 50 Ω. Constant current discharge experiments revealed maximum areal capacities on same scale (2.4–2.6 mAh cm−2) but improved voltage stability on optimised coplanar battery layouts. The rearrangement of electrodes enables screen printing of thin film batteries with improved discharge profiles, increased current rate capability, and reduced internal impedances.