Activated Li2S as a High-Performance Cathode for Rechargeable Lithium-Sulfur Batteries

作者:Zu Chenxi; Klein Michael; Manthiram Arumugam*
来源:Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters, 2014, 5(22): 3986-3991.
DOI:10.1021/jz5021108

摘要

Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries with a high theoretical energy density of similar to 2500 Wh kg(-1) are considered as one promising rechargeable battery chemistry for next-generation energy storage. However, lithium-metal anode degradation remains a persistent problem causing safety concerns for Li-S batteries, hindering their practical utility. One possible strategy to circumvent the aforementioned problems is to use alternative, high-capacity, lithium-free anodes (e.g., Si, Sn, carbon) and a Li2S cathode. However, a large potential barrier was identified on the initial charge of insulating bulk Li2S particles, limiting the cell performance. In this work, the bulk Li2S particles were effectively activated with an electrolyte containing P2S5, resulting in a lowered initial charging voltage plateau. This permits the direct use of commercially available bulk Li2S particles as a high-capacity cathode for room-temperature, rechargeable Li-S batteries, significantly lowering the manufacturing cost of Li-S cells.

  • 出版日期2014-11-20