Despite these advantages, lithium-ion batteries pose flammability risks, are prone to supply chain shortages and are expensive, prompting research into other material technologies for the batteries of the future. One technology researchers have investigated for use in battery applications is aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs). Finding an ideal cathode, or positively charged electrode that acquires electrons during discharge, for AZIBs has been the major bottleneck for developing the technology. These defects leave extra electrons behind and allow electrons to move freely through the material. Through this process, mechanical shear striking energy allows lattice oxygen in EMD to escape.