High-performance lithium–sulfur batteries enabled by regulating Li2S deposition

Abstract

Lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs) have received intensive attention in recent years due to their high theoretical energy density derived from the lithiation of sulfur. In the discharge process, sulfur transforms into lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) that dissolve in liquid electrolytes and then into insoluble Li₂S precipitated on the electrode surface. The electronically and ionically insulating Li₂S leads to two critical issues, including the sluggish reaction kinetics from LiPSs to Li₂S and the passivation of the electrode. In this regard, controlling the Li₂S deposition is significant for improving the performance of LSBs. In this perspective, we have summarized the recent achievements in regulating the Li₂S deposition to enhance the performance of LSBs, including the solution-mediated growth of Li₂S, sulfur host enhanced nucleation and catalysis induced kinetic improvement. Moreover, the challenges and possibilities for future research studies are discussed, highlighting the significance of regulating the Li₂S deposition to realize the high electrochemical performance and promote the practical uses of LSBs.