Strategies for Polysulfide Immobilization in Sulfur Cathodes for Room-Temperature Sodium-Sulfur Batteries

Room-temperature sodium-sulfur batteries are one of the most attractive energy storage systems due to their low cost and ultrahigh energy density (2600 W h kg(-1)). During the charge/discharge process, the sulfur can react with sodium via a multistep redox reaction to obtain a high specific capacity (1675 mA h g(-1)). However, these batteries face the difficult challenge of the shuttle effect, which hinders their practical application. Many strategies have been employed to address this issue on sulfur electrodes, such as intact physical confinement, chemical inhibition, and electrocatalysis. In this review, the mechanisms of the abovementioned strategies are summarized, the remaining issues are clarified, and research directions are proposed for developing advanced sodium-sulfur batteries.

Automated summary

Room-temperature sodium-sulfur batteries offer low cost and high energy density, but face challenges like the shuttle effect. Strategies such as physical confinement, chemical inhibition, and electrocatalysis have been employed to address the shuttle effect on sulfur electrodes. By summarizing mechanisms, clarifying remaining issues, and proposing research directions, advancements in sodium-sulfur batteries are being promoted.