Effects of Catalysis and Separator Functionalization on High-Energy Lithium-Sulfur Batteries: A Complete Review

Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries have the advantages of high theoretical specific capacity (1675 mAh g(-1)), rich sulfur resources, low production cost, and friendly environment, which makes it one of the most promising next-generation rechargeable energy storage devices. However, the shuttle effect of polysulfide results in the passivation of metal lithium anode, the decrease of battery capacity and coulombic efficiency, and the deterioration of cycle stability. To realize the commercialization of Li-S batteries, its serious shuttle effect needs to be suppress. The commercial separators are ineffective to suppress this effect because of its large pore size. Therefore, it is an effective strategy to modify the separator surface and introduce functional modified layer. In addition to the blocking strategy, the catalysis of polysulfide conversion reaction is also an important factor hindering the migration of polysulfides. In this review, the principles of separator modification, functionalization, and catalysis in Li-S batteries are reviewed. Furthermore, the research trend of separator functionalization and polysulfide catalysis in the future is prospected.

Automated summary

Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries have advantages in terms of high theoretical specific capacity, rich sulfur resources, low production cost, and environmental friendliness, making them promising rechargeable energy storage devices. However, the shuttle effect of polysulfide hampers their commercialization by causing passivation of the anode, decreased capacity and efficiency, and reduced cycle stability. To address this issue, modifying the separator surface and introducing functional modified layers are effective strategies. Additionally, catalyzing the polysulfide conversion reaction can also hinder the migration of polysulfides. This review provides an overview of separator modification, functionalization, and catalysis in Li-S batteries, and prospects the future research trends in the field.