All-Liquid-Phase Reaction Mechanism Enabling Cryogenic Li-S Batteries

The sluggish solid-solid conversion kinetics from Li2S4 to Li2S during discharge is considered the main problem for cryogenic Li-S batteries. Herein, an all-liquid-phase reaction mechanism, where all the discharging intermediates are dissolved in the functional thioether-based electrolyte, is proposed to significantly enhance the kinetics of Li-S battery chemistry at low temperatures. A fast liquid-phase reaction pathway thus replaces the conventional slow solid-solid conversion route. Spectral investigations and molecular dynamics simulations jointly elucidate the greatly enhanced kinetics due to the highly decentralized state of solvated intermediates in the electrolyte. Overall, the battery brings an ultrahigh specific capacity of 1563 mAh g(-1) sulfur in the cathode at -60 degrees C. This work provides a strategy for developing cryogenic Li-S batteries.

Automated summary

The use of an all-liquid-phase reaction mechanism significantly enhances the kinetics of Li-S battery chemistry at low temperatures, replacing the conventional solid-solid conversion route. The highly decentralized state of solvated intermediates in the electrolyte contributes to the greatly enhanced kinetics.