Enhanced sulfur utilization in lithium-sulfur batteries by hybrid modified separators

The extraordinary energy density and low cost enable lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries to be a promising alternative to traditional energy storage systems. The principal hurdle facing Li-S batteries is the unsatisfactory utilization of sulfur cathodes. The detrimental shuttle issue of polysulfides and the sluggish charge transfer kinetics result in quick capacity degradation of Li-S batteries. An MFLC hybrid material composed of manganese-iron layered double hydroxides (Mn-Fe LDH) and carbon nanotubes (CNT) has been developed. Such heterostructure combines the advantages of effective chemical bonding of Mn-Fe LDH towards polysulfides with the high conductivity of CNT. When modified on a polypropylene (PP) separator, the hybrid material is proven to significantly inhibit the shuttle issue of polysulfides and accelerate their redox reaction kinetics. Li-S batteries with MFLC-modified separators revealed considerably improved electrochemical performance. A high initial capacity of 1138 mA h g⁻¹ and 70 % capacity retention after 200 cycles were achieved at 0.2 C. The enhanced sulfur utilization can be directly evaluated from the discharge voltage plateaus. The results indicate a new solution for the practical application of Li-S batteries and provide a simple approach to determine the efficiency of sulfur utilization.