Review—Li Metal Anode in Working Lithium-Sulfur Batteries

  • Cheng X
  • Huang J
  • Zhang Q
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Abstract

Due to the high theoretical energy density of 2600 Wh kg −1 , lithium–sulfur batteries are strongly regarded as the promising next-generation energy storage devices. However, the practical applications of lithium–sulfur batteries are challenged by several obstacles, including the low sulfur utilization and poor lifespan, which are partly attributed to the shuttle of lithium polysulfides and lithium dendrite growth in working lithium–sulfur batteries. Suppressing lithium dendrite growth is a necessary step not only for a safe and efficient Li metal anode, but also for a high capacity cell with a high Coulombic efficiency. Herein we review the lithium metal anode protection in a polysulfide-rich environment, relative to most reviews on lithium metal anode without considering the effect of lithium polysulfides in lithium metal batteries. Firstly, the importance and dilemma of Li metal anode issues in lithium–sulfur batteries are underscored, aiming to arouse the attentions to Li metal anode protection. Specific attentions are paid to the surface chemistry of Li metal anode in a polysulfide-rich lithium–sulfur battery. Next, the proposed strategies to stabilize solid electrolyte interface and protect Li metal anode are included. Finally, a general conclusion and a perspective on the current limitations, as well as recommended future research directions of Li metal anode in lithium–sulfur batteries are presented. The ever-increasing requirement for efficient and economic en-ergy storage technologies has triggered the continued research into advanced battery systems. 1 Lithium ion batteries, based on the lithium intercalation chemistry, have dominated the battery market since their commercial application in the 1990s. 2 However, conventional lithium ion batteries are very expensive and their energy densities (theoret-ically, 350 − 500 Wh kg −1 , practically, 100 − 250 Wh kg −1) seem insufficient for long-range electrical vehicles and high-end portable electronics. These emerging demands have energized the evolution of other alternative rechargeable batteries with higher energy den-sity and longer lifespan. 3 Lithium−sulfur (Li−S) battery, a 'beyond Li-ion' technology, has drawn extensive attentions due to its high spe-cific capacity (1675 mAh g −1) and energy density (2600 Wh kg −1). 4–6

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APA

Cheng, X.-B., Huang, J.-Q., & Zhang, Q. (2018). Review—Li Metal Anode in Working Lithium-Sulfur Batteries. Journal of The Electrochemical Society, 165(1), A6058–A6072. https://doi.org/10.1149/2.0111801jes

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