Toward the Advanced Next-Generation Solid-State Na-S Batteries: Progress and Prospects

Although batteries fitted with sodium metal anodes and sulfur cathodes are attractive for their higher energy density and lower cost, the threat of polysulfide migration in organic liquid electrolytes, uncontrollable dendrites, and corresponding safety issues has locked the deployment of the battery system. Introduction of solid-state electrolytes to replace conventional liquid-based electrolytes has been considered an effective approach to address these issues and further render solid-state sodium-sulfur battery (SSSSB) systems with higher safety and improved energy density. Nevertheless, the practical applications of SSSSB are still hampered by grand challenges, such as poor interfacial contact, sluggish redox kinetics of sulfur conversion, and Na dendrites. Currently, various strategies have been proposed and utilized to negate the problems within the solid-state battery. Herein, a timely and comprehensive review of emerging strategies to promote the development of SSSSB is presented. The critical challenges that prevent the real application of the SSSSB technique are analyzed initially. Subsequently, various strategies for boosting the development of SSSSB are comprehensively summarized, containing the developing of the advanced cathode and cathode/electrolyte interface, tailoring the solid electrolyte, and designing the stable anode and anode/electrolyte interface. Finally, further perspectives on stimulating the practical application of SSSSB technology are provided.

Automated summary

Although solid-state sodium-sulfur batteries (SSSSB) have the potential for higher safety and improved energy density compared to traditional liquid-based systems, they still face challenges such as poor interfacial contact, slow sulfur conversion kinetics, and sodium dendrites. Various strategies have been proposed to overcome these issues, including developing advanced cathodes and cathode/electrolyte interfaces, tailoring solid electrolytes, and designing stable anodes and anode/electrolyte interfaces. This review provides a timely and comprehensive analysis of emerging strategies to promote the development of SSSSB and offers further perspectives on stimulating their practical application.