Open AccessEarly Failure of Lithium–Sulfur Batteries at Practical Conditions: Crosstalk between Sulfur Cathode and Lithium Anode
Author(s) -
Shi Lili,
Anderson Cassidy S.,
Mishra Lubhani,
Qiao Hong,
Canfield Nathan,
Xu Yaobin,
Wang Chengqi,
Jang TaeJin,
Yu Zhaoxin,
Feng Shuo,
Le Phung M,
Subramanian Venkat R.,
Wang Chongmin,
Liu Jun,
Xiao Jie,
Lu Dongping
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
advanced science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 5.388
H-Index - 100
ISSN - 2198-3844
DOI - 10.1002/advs.202201640
Subject(s) - cathode , anode , electrolyte , materials science , lithium metal , electrode , sulfur , energy storage , chemical engineering , chemistry , metallurgy , power (physics) , physics , quantum mechanics , engineering
Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries are one of the most promising next‐generation energy storage technologies due to their high theoretical energy and low cost. However, Li–S cells with practically high energy still suffer from a very limited cycle life with reasons which remain unclear. Here, through cell study under practical conditions, it is proved that an internal short circuit (ISC) is a root cause of early cell failure and is ascribed to the crosstalk between the S cathode and Li anode. The cathode topography affects S reactions through influencing the local resistance and electrolyte distribution, particularly under lean electrolyte conditions. The inhomogeneous reactions of S cathodes are easily mirrored by the Li anodes, resulting in exaggerated localized Li plating/stripping, Li filament formation, and eventually cell ISC. Manipulating cathode topography is proven effective to extend the cell cycle life under practical conditions. The findings of this work shed new light on the electrode design for extending cycle life of high‐energy Li–S cells, which are also applicable for other rechargeable Li or metal batteries.