Modification and Functionalization of Separators for High Performance Lithium-Sulfur Batteries

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Lithium-sulfur batteries (LSB) offer high theoretical energy density and utilize abundant sulfur.
• Commercialization is hindered by poor cycling stability and capacity fade due to lithium polysulfide (LiPS) shuttle effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in functional separators for LSBs.
• To analyze materials, preparation methods, and performance characteristics of functional separators.
• To discuss the mechanisms, potential, and future prospects of advanced separators for LSBs.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of functional separators for LSBs.
• Categorization of separators into carbon/metal compounds, polymers, and novel materials.
• Analysis of preparation, characterization, and performance data.

Main Results:

• Functional separators effectively mitigate LiPS diffusion and improve cycling stability.
• Various materials, including carbon, metal compounds, and polymers, show promise.
• Understanding material mechanisms is key to enhancing battery performance.

Conclusions:

• Functional separators are crucial for overcoming LSB limitations.
• Continued research into advanced separator materials and designs is essential for practical LSB application.
• This review provides insights into the development potential and future directions for LSB separators.