Perovskite‐Type Metal Oxides and the Role of Carbon Materials in Zn‐Based Aqueous Batteries

Perovskite‐type metal oxides are employed as cathodes in Zn‐air batteries (ZABs) and Zn‐ion batteries (ZIBs). While research on ZABs is extensively documented, their application in ZIBs is a more recent area of investigation. The fundamental principles of these battery technologies and their respective reaction mechanisms are reviewed. We identify the crucial structural and compositional parameters that dictate electrochemical performance. Although perovskite‐type metal oxide materials are frequently integrated with carbon materials, their contribution is often not adequately emphasized in research articles. This review underscores the pivotal influence of carbon‐based materials on the final electrocatalytic activity, positioning them not merely as additives but as active components that significantly impact the reaction mechanism and the overall properties of the metal oxide. Notably, perovskite metal oxides can form B–O–C interactions (where B represents a metal) with carbon materials, substantially affecting their performance. Furthermore, this review provides a comprehensive analysis of the diverse mixing strategies currently utilized, the nature of the most commonly employed carbon materials, and their electrochemical response in both ZABs and ZIBs. Finally, we discuss future perspectives and existing challenges in the pursuit of highly active and efficient perovskite metal oxide cathodes for these batteries.