High Energy-Density Lithium-Sulfur Batteries with Extended Cycle Life

Conventional lithium-ion batteries demonstrate great potential for energy storage applications but they face some major challenges such as low energy density and high cost. It is worthwhile to pursue alternative strategies to address the barriers of cost and energy density. In this project, we will develop advanced rechargeable lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries that have much higher energy density and lower cost. Our Phase I project will use a superionic solid electrolyte and sulfur-immobilized carbon matrix to reduce sulfur loss to the electrolyte and to increase the sulfur utilization. The full lithium-sulfur button and pouch batteries based on these components will be constructed to evaluate their electrochemical performance. Based on our preliminary data, it is anticipated that a 400 Wh/kg energy density of Li-S pouch cells can be demonstrated for a minimum of hundreds of cycles.