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Understanding the Reaction Mechanism of Lithium–Sulfur Batteries by In Situ/Operando X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy

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Abstract

Because of the high theoretical energy density of \(2600\, \hbox {Wh kg}^{-1}\), lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries are regarded as one of the most promising energy storage technologies to meet the increasing requirement from personal devices to automobiles. However, the practical application of Li–S batteries is still challenging due to technical obstacles, such as low sulfur utilization and poor lifetime. Therefore, understanding the electrode reaction mechanism is of critical importance to further improve the battery performance and lifetime. Here, we review recent progress in the application of in situ and operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy in characterizing Li–S batteries. We discuss in detail how this advanced technique helps researchers understand the redox process of the electrode materials as well as the influence of polymer binder and electrolyte additive on the polysulfide shuttle effect, which provide valuable information for designing better Li–S batteries. A general conclusion and critical further research directions are also provided at the end.

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Acknowledgements

The work at the Advanced Light Source of the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory was supported by the Director, Office of Science, Office of Basic Energy Sciences, of the US Department of Energy under Contract No. DE-AC02-05CH11231. This work was supported as part of the Joint Center for Energy Storage Research, an Energy Innovation Hub funded by the US Department of Energy, Office of Science, Basic Energy Sciences.

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  1. Advanced Light Source, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA

    Liang Zhang & Jinghua Guo

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  1. Liang Zhang
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  2. Jinghua Guo
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Correspondence to Jinghua Guo.

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Zhang, L., Guo, J. Understanding the Reaction Mechanism of Lithium–Sulfur Batteries by In Situ/Operando X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy. Arab J Sci Eng 44, 6217–6229 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13369-019-03808-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13369-019-03808-8

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