No abstract

Polysulfide dissolution and shuttling limit the capacity output and cycle life of lithium−sulfur batteries to a great extent. Separator modification using polar materials exploiting the ability to entrap polysulfides has been demonstrated as an effective approach to deal with the conundrum of polysulfide shuttling. Herein, a carbon nanotube/manganese sulfide nanocomposite is designed as a separator modifier in lithium−sulfur batteries for the first time. Furthermore, the carbon nanotube network provides a continuous network for rapid electronic conduction, imparts structural stability, and acts as a secondary barrier for polysulfides. Consequently, the cell displays an initial discharge capacity of 876 mAh g −1 at 0.5 C and sustains excellent stability with a retained capacity of 76% after 500 cycles. The self-discharge of the cell is also conspicuously reduced, maintaining a constant voltage for 100 h under open-circuit conditions. The electrochemical results represent an effective strategy to realize better performing Li−S batteries.

Lithium−sulfur (Li−S) batteries have received paramount attention as a next-generation energy storage device due to their remarkably high specific capacity (1675 mAh g −1 ), energy density (2600 Wh kg −1 ), and cost-effectiveness compared to the forefront lithium-ion batteries. However, certain issues still hamper the smooth working of Li−S batteries, which need to be addressed to fill the gap between fundamental research and commercialization. Polymer binders, as an inevitable part of the cathode structure, play a vital role in upholding the structural robustness and firmness of the electrode. However, conventional binders like PVDF are not capable of effectively accommodating the large volume changes within the electrode, facilitating electronic/ionic conductivity, entrapping the soluble polysulfide intermediates, and enhancing polysulfide redox kinetics. Therefore, novel multifunctional binder designs are adopted in Li−S batteries to tackle the above-mentioned issues. This review summarizes the recent progress in this research area employing advanced multifunctional polymer binders in Li−S batteries. The action of the binder through various mechanisms is discussed in detail. The role of binder is given immense attention in the emerging field of various energy storage devices, including Li−S batteries, and, thus, here discussed as well.

No abstract