H[sub 2]O[sub 2] Decomposition Reaction as Selecting Tool for Catalysts in Li–O[sub 2] Cells

The decomposition reaction of aqueous solutions catalyzed by transition metal oxide powders has been compared with the charging voltage of nonaqueous cells containing the same catalyst. An inverse linear relationship between Ln k (rate constant for the decomposition) and the charging voltage has been found, despite differences in media and possible mechanistic differences. The results suggest that the decomposition may be a reliable, useful, and fast screening tool for materials that promote the charging process of the battery and may ultimately give insight into the charging mechanism.