Single-Atomic Catalysts Embedded on Nanocarbon Supports for High Energy Density Lithium-Sulfur Batteries

Lithium-sulfur batteries are among the most promising candidates for next-generation energy-storage systems due to its high theoretical energy density. However, the shuttle effect of polysulfides and sluggish reaction kinetics severely hinder the development of practical Li-S batteries. Merely depending on an adsorption strategy to resist the shuttle effect is insufficient to boost the overall electrochemical conversion reaction. Recently, single atom catalysts (SACs) have been used to solve this problem by decreasing the energy barriers of sulfur-species interconversion and Li2S decomposition. Herein, the research progress made in using SACs in Li-S batteries is discussed, focusing on their functions and catalytic mechanism. The challenges and prospects for future application of SACs in electrochemical energy-storage systems are also discussed.