Understanding the role of interfaces in solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries

Abstract

All-solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries (ASSLSBs) exhibit huge potential applications in electrical energy storage systems due to their unique advantages, such as low costs, safety and high energy density. However, the issues facing solid-state electrolyte (SSE)/electrode interfaces, including lithium dendrite growth, poor interfacial capability and large interfacial resistance, seriously hinder their commercial development. Furthermore, an insufficient fundamental understanding of the interfacial roles during cycling is also a significant challenge for designing and constructing high-performance ASSLSBs. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the origin and issues of SSE/electrode interfaces, summarizes various strategies for resolving these interfacial issues and highlights advanced analytical characterization techniques to effectively investigate the interfacial properties of these systems. Future possible research directions for developing high-performance ASSLSBs are also suggested. Overall, advanced in-situ characterization techniques, intelligent interfacial engineering and a deeper understanding of the interfacial properties will aid the realization of high-performance ASSLSBs.

Recent Configurational Advances for Solid-State Lithium Batteries Featuring Conversion-Type Cathodes

“…To reduce the charge-transfer resistance, similar to the strategy adopted in other solid-state batteries, sulfur or lithium sulfide active materials must be blended with solid-state electrolyte particles in the cathode to achieve better utilization [ 66 , 67 , 68 , 69 ]. Xu et al demonstrated a well-mixed cathode consisting of reduced graphene oxide coated with sulfur (rGO@S)/acetylene black (AB)/Li 10 GeP 2 S 12 (LGPS) via long-duration ball-milling ( Figure 3 c), delivering an impressive reversible capacity of 830 mA h g −1 after 750 cycles at a rate of 1 C and 60 °C [ 66 ].…”

Heterostructures Regulating Lithium Polysulfides for Advanced Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries

“…[3,[5][6][7][8][9][10][11] In order to solve these problems, extensive research has been carried out including electrode structure design, new material systems design, and synthesis, as well as electrolyte composition regulation and so on, which has greatly promoted the development of LSB to a certain extent. [4,[12][13][14][15][16][17] Generally, LSB is composed of lithium anode, sulfurcontaining cathode, electrolyte, and separator. In the past few years, abundant researches were focused on the sulfur cathode to speed up the reaction kinetics and prevent shuttling effect.…”

“…[ 3,5–11 ] In order to solve these problems, extensive research has been carried out including electrode structure design, new material systems design, and synthesis, as well as electrolyte composition regulation and so on, which has greatly promoted the development of LSB to a certain extent. [ 4,12–17 ]…”

A ductile and strong-affinity network binder coupling inorganic oligomers and biopolymers for high-loading lithium–sulfur batteries

“…12–15 In addition, metal and metal compounds can accelerate the mutual transformation between polysulfides through electrocatalysis, so as to avoid the formation of a concentration gradient of polysulfides. 16–18…”

“…[12][13][14][15] In addition, metal and metal compounds can accelerate the mutual transformation between polysulfides through electrocatalysis, so as to avoid the formation of a concentration gradient of polysulfides. [16][17][18] As an important part of the sulfur cathode, the binder plays a very significant role in inhibiting the expansion of sulfur materials and anchoring polysulfides. One basic function of the binder is adhering active substances and conductive carbon onto the collector, so that the sulfur is closely connected with the conductive carbon.…”