Electrodeposition of Zn–Mn alloys from recycling Zn–MnO2 batteries solutions

The recovery of metallic ions by electrodeposition from solutions resulting from lixiviation of spent Zn–MnO2 batteries was studied in an attempt to optimize the electrodeposition process, selectivity of ion-separation, morphologic characteristics and anticorrosive and galvanic properties of metallic deposits. The simultaneous deposition of zinc and manganese on different ferrous substrates under various experimental conditions was tested to access the efficiency of the electrodeposition, the morphology and composition of metallic deposits as well as their performance as galvanic coating layers. The effect of additives, namely, boric acid and methylamine, on the properties of produced covering layers was also studied. Results show that solutions resulting from hydrometallurgical treatment of spent domestic Zn–MnO2-batteries can be processed directly as electrodeposition baths for the recovery of zinc alloys. The presence of additives, such as boric acid and methylamine, with buffering or passivating effects, does improve the simultaneous deposition of Mn.