Lithium-sulfur battery advancements promise faster charging and longer life

Advancements in lithium-sulfur batteries promise fast charging and durability.

: Two teams have advanced lithium-sulfur battery technology by enhancing cathodes and developing solid electrolytes. One team used nitrogen-doped carbon structures for quick charging and capacity retention. The other created a unique electrolyte with iodine for rapid reactions and longevity. These developments could make lithium-sulfur batteries commercially viable.

Two independent research teams have recently reported significant advancements in lithium-sulfur battery technology that address major challenges blocking commercialization. Professor Jong-sung Yu's team at DGIST enhanced the cathode using nitrogen-doped porous carbon, leading to rapid charging and improved capacity retention.

The carbon structure, formed through a magnesium-assisted thermal reduction method, allowed for a sulfur host that increased capacity by 1.6 times under rapid charging. Nitrogen doping prevented lithium polysulfide migration, maintaining 82% of the battery's capacity after 1,000 cycles, with collaborations confirming the benefits.

Meanwhile, Chinese and German researchers developed a solid electrolyte consisting of boron, sulfur, lithium, phosphorus, and iodine, which accelerates electrode reactions. Their battery showed remarkable durability, maintaining over 80% capacity after 25,000 cycles, thus pushing lithium-sulfur batteries closer to practical use.