A Revolution in Electrodes: Recent Progress in Rechargeable Lithium–Sulfur Batteries

Abstract

As a promising candidate for future batteries, the lithium–sulfur battery is gaining increasing interest due to its high capacity and energy density. However, over the years, lithium–sulfur batteries have been plagued by fading capacities and the low Coulombic efficiency derived from its unique electrochemical behavior, which involves solid–liquid transition reactions. Moreover, lithium–sulfur batteries employ metallic lithium as the anode, which engenders safety vulnerability of the battery. The electrodes play a pivotal role in the performance of lithium–sulfur batteries. A leap forward in progress of lithium–sulfur batteries is always accompanied by a revolution in the electrode technology. In this review, recent progress in rechargeable lithium–sulfur batteries is summarized in accordance with the evolution of the electrodes, including the diversified cathode design and burgeoning metallic‐lithium‐free anodes. Although the way toward application has still many challenges associated, recent progress in lithium–sulfur battery technology still paints an encouraging picture of a revolution in rechargeable batteries.