Review on recent advances in two‐dimensional nanomaterials‐based cathodes for lithium‐sulfur batteries

Abstract

With the advantages of superior energy density, lithium-sulfur batteries (LSBs) have been considered as one of the promising next-generation batteries. However, some key issues, such as the shuttle effect of the intermediate lithium polysulfides, poor conductivity of the sulfur, Li 2 S and Li 2 S 2 , and huge volume variation during charge/discharge process, have hindered its development. In this respect, a variety of nanomaterials have been used to overcome the abovementioned defects. Among them, two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials present unique merits for enhancing the electrochemical performance of LSBs owing to their unique structural properties. Nevertheless, the variation of 2D nanomaterials used in LSBs is rarely discussed. Herein, this work systematically reviews the state-of-the-art progress in LSB cathode development through 2D materials such as graphene, MXenes, 2D compounds, and so forth. With a comprehensive analysis, the challenges and perspectives for 2D nanomaterials in LSBs application are proposed and discussed.

Solutions to the Challenges of Lithium–Sulfur Batteries by Carbon Nanotubes

“…Due to its high theoretical specific capacity (1675 mAh g −1 ), low toxicity, abundant reserves (and thus low cost, <200 USD per ton), and low density, sulfur is considered being a promising cathode material for secondary batteries. [22] Elemental sulfur deposited on a conductive substrate (usually a metal current collector) is a routine cathode material for LSBs to accomplish the multielectron redox reaction with lithium ions and form Li 2 S during discharge. [23] However, there are several issues with sulfur as the cathode for LSBs.…”

Synergistic Overview and Perspectives of Two-Dimensional Heterostructures for Cathodes and Separators in Flexible Li–S Batteries

“…The intermediate lithium polysulfide species (Li 2 S n 2 ≤ n < 8) produced by redox reactions are readily soluble in electrolytes, resulting in the loss of active materials, passivation of the lithium anode, and shuttle effects. 1 Numerous efforts have been made to improve Li−S batteries' cycle life and discharge capacity. Novel electrode materials and suitable cell designs are investigated to address all of these challenges.…”

“…Even though Li–S batteries have so many emerging benefits, their commercial implementation is still limited by a multitude of obstacles. The intermediate lithium polysulfide species (Li 2 S n 2 ≤ n < 8) produced by redox reactions are readily soluble in electrolytes, resulting in the loss of active materials, passivation of the lithium anode, and shuttle effects . Numerous efforts have been made to improve Li–S batteries’ cycle life and discharge capacity.…”

In-plane Mesoporous MXene Nanocomposite Electrodes: Maximizing Ion Accessibility/Transport Pathway and Mechanical Strength of Pristine MXene

“…The van der Waals effect of MXene nanosheets also results in weakness and brittleness of the membranes, which is a key factor limiting their potential application in certain extreme environments 11 . Therefore, like most conventional materials, the pristine MXene is difficult to meet the above two requirements of electrode materials, limiting their applications in lightweight, flexible electronic devices 12,13 . Consequently, it is essential to develop MXene based electrode materials with strong mechanical properties and excellent electrochemical properties by optimizing the structure of MXene.…”