AbstractThis paper presents applications of in situ X-ray diffraction and absorption techniques to the study of H+/MnO2 alkaline batteries. The two complementary in situ techniques are described. Investigation of the electrochemical insertion and deinsertion of H+ has been made through its influence on the evolution of the crystallographic structure of γ-MnO2, while investigation of the transfer of e has been undertaken through the variation of the oxidation state of the manganese during the discharging and charging process of a battery. New insights in the understanding of the mechanisms of proton insertion and charge transfer into γ-MnO2 are discussed.