THE ZSMC BATTERY ARCHITECTURE / Performance Modeling
Expected behavior under load.
Modeling provides the baseline for validation. Our current models treat the cell as anode-limited and predict a rate-dependent dual-plateau discharge profile.
Voltage behavior
The dual-plateau discharge concept.
Because the cathode relies on two distinct active materials (MnO2 and CuO), the modeled discharge curve exhibits two sequential voltage plateaus rather than a single continuous slope.
The primary plateau, dominated by the reduction of MnO2, occurs at a higher potential. As this material is depleted and the voltage drops, the secondary reduction of CuO becomes the dominant reaction, providing a lower-voltage plateau that extends the total capacity.
Crucially, this dual-plateau behavior is highly rate-dependent. At higher C-rates, the lower ionic and electronic conductivity of the CuO phase restricts access to its active core, significantly truncating the secondary plateau.
Model summary
Electrode-stack basis, active layers only.
| Parameter | 1C | 2C | 3C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nominal voltage | 1.317 V | 1.232 V | 1.162 V |
| Energy density | 143.297 Wh/kg | 134.049 Wh/kg | 126.432 Wh/kg |
| Volumetric density | 257.340 Wh/L | 240.732 Wh/L | 227.054 Wh/L |
| Effective capacity | 97.2% | 93.1% | 91.1% |
| Current density | 6.116 mA/cm2 | 12.232 mA/cm2 | 18.349 mA/cm2 |
Cell-level energy density will be lower after separator, current collector, packaging, and electrolyte mass and volume are included.