Reduce Polysulfide Shuttling in Lithium Sulfur EV Batteries
Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries demonstrate theoretical energy densities of 2,600 Wh/kg, but exhibit rapid capacity fade in practical implementations. During discharge, lithium polysulfides (Li₂Sₓ, 4 ≤ x ≤ 8) dissolve into the electrolyte and migrate between electrodes, creating parasitic reactions that can reduce coulombic efficiency below 80% after just 100 cycles. These soluble species not only deplete active material but create concentration gradients that impede consistent ion transport throughout the cell.
The fundamental challenge lies in confining sulfur species within the cathode structure while maintaining the electrochemical pathways necessary for high sulfur utilization and discharge capacity.
This page brings together solutions from recent research—including multifunctional separators with metal nitride/oxynitride ceramic layers, conductive polymer-coated sulfur-carbon composites, chromium-based intermediate layers, and cathode architectures with vertically arranged graphene nanosheets. These and other approaches demonstrate practical pathways to minimize polysulfide shuttling while preserving the high energy density that makes Li-S batteries promising for next-generation electric vehicles.
1. Separator with Metal Nitride or Oxynitride Ceramic Layer and Nanopore Structures for Lithium Sulfur Batteries
NAVITAS SYSTEMS LLC, 2024
Separator for lithium sulfur batteries that prevents polysulfide dissolution through a multifunctional design. The separator comprises a layer of material, optionally a metal nitride or metal oxynitride ceramic, optionally with nanopore structures. The material is coated on one side of a substrate, and the electrolyte is distributed throughout the space between the anode and cathode as well as in contact with the separator. The separator captures polysulfides dissolved in the cathode electrolyte during discharge, providing an electronic pathway for polysulfide oxidation during charging. This separator achieves improved coulombic efficiency, sulfur utilization, and cycle life compared to conventional separators.
2. Lithium-Sulfur Battery with Organosulfur Species Featuring -S-Sn- Linkages in Cathode and Electrolyte Matrices
ARKEMA INC, Arkema Incorporated, 2023
Organosulfur species enhance lithium-sulfur battery performance by forming stable, conductive interfaces between electrodes. These species, comprising organic moieties and sulfur-containing -S-Sn- linkages, are incorporated into cathode materials and electrolyte matrices. The organosulfur species facilitate co-current flow of sulfur atoms from the cathode to the anode, preventing translational flow and promoting sulfur retention. The organosulfur species also form metal-sulfur bonds on electrode surfaces, enabling electrolyte regeneration through metal ion exchange. This approach enables higher battery capacity, reduced sulfur loss, and improved cycling life compared to conventional cathode materials.
3. Method for Integrating Chromium-Based Intermediate Layer in Lithium-Sulfur Batteries
TIANMU LAKE INSTITUTE OF ADVANCED ENERGY STORAGE TECHNOLOGIES CO LTD, Tianmu Lake Institute of Advanced Energy Storage Technologies Co., Ltd., 2023
A method to prevent polysulfide shuttle effect in lithium-sulfur batteries by incorporating a chromium-based intermediate layer. The method involves coating a lithium-sulfur battery with a chromium-based intermediate layer, which contains chromium sulfide (CrSSe), as an interlayer between the positive and negative electrodes. The chromium-based interlayer prevents the formation of intermediate polysulfides that can migrate between the electrodes during charging and discharging, thereby enhancing battery performance and cycle life.
4. Nanometer Multi-Polarization Center Catalyst Comprising Vanadium Pentoxide and Lithium Vanadate for Lithium-Sulfur Batteries
JIANGXI UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, 2021
A binder-free nanometer multi-polarization center catalyst for lithium-sulfur batteries that enhances reaction kinetics by creating multiple polarization centers. The catalyst comprises vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) lithium vanadate (Li3V2O5), which forms two positive and one negative polarization centers through electronegative interactions. These centers are strategically positioned to optimize the active material's surface area and catalytic activity, enabling faster lithium-sulfur reaction rates and improved battery performance. The catalyst achieves this through its unique multi-polarization structure, which enables efficient electron transfer and mass transport across the electrode interface.
5. Method for Fabricating Lithium-Sulfur Battery Separators with CNT@C Composite Film Incorporating Diamond-Polyhedral Microspheres
UNIV DALIAN TECH, 2021
A method for preparing lithium-sulfur battery positive electrode separators by covering a separator material with a CNT@C composite film that incorporates diamond-polyhedral microspheres. The CNT@C film enhances lithium-ion interfacial conductivity and polysulfide resistance through its diamond-doped structure, while the diamond-polyhedral microspheres prevent shuttle effect and dendrite growth. This multi-functional barrier layer enables improved battery performance characteristics compared to conventional separators.
6. Cathode Structure with Sulfur-Infused LAGP Ceramic Particles Encapsulated by Conductive Polymer Binder and Coated with Sulfur-Infused Carbon Particles for Lithium-Sulfur Batteries
CORNERSTONE RESEARCH GROUP INC, 2021
Lithium-sulfur batteries with enhanced sulfur loading and improved current density through innovative cathode design. The cathode comprises sulfur-infused LAGP (Li1+xAlxGe2−x(PO4)3) ceramic particles encapsulated by a conductive polymer binder, which enables efficient sulfur distribution and penetration into thick cathode layers. The encapsulated sulfur particles are then coated with sulfur-infused carbon particles, creating a hybrid cathode structure that maximizes sulfur utilization while maintaining current density. This approach addresses the conventional limitations of sulfur loading in lithium-sulfur batteries by incorporating sulfur into the cathode structure through a novel encapsulation-binder-carbon architecture.
7. Interlayer Material with Carbon Nanotubes and MOF-Derived Mo2C/Co Nanoparticles for Lithium-Sulfur Batteries
INST PROCESS ENG CAS, 2020
Interlayer material for lithium-sulfur batteries that enhances electrochemical performance through a novel combination of carbon nanotubes and metal-organic framework (MOF) precursors. The material comprises a porous graphitized carbon layer with integrated Mo2C/Co nanoparticles, which enables enhanced electron conduction, polysulfide adsorption, and lithium-ion migration. The interlayer material is prepared through a specific MOF precursor synthesis pathway that preserves the carambola-like structure while achieving high graphitization. The resulting material is used as a separator in lithium-sulfur batteries, enabling improved electrochemical performance through enhanced interfacial contact between the cathode and anode.
8. Lithium-Sulfur Battery Electrode Material with Additive-Induced Intermediate Conversion and In-Situ Compoundation
CENTRAL SOUTH UNIVERSITY, Central South University, 2020
Lithium-sulfur battery positive electrode material that prevents polysulfide shuttle degradation through controlled conversion of intermediate products. The material incorporates additives that accelerate the conversion of discharging intermediate lithium polysulfide to the final product Li2S or Li2S2, thereby preventing the shuttle effect that degrades battery performance. The material is prepared through a novel in-situ compoundation process on conductive current collectors, enabling enhanced performance and cycle stability compared to traditional methods.
9. Lithium-Sulfur Battery Cathode Material with Self-Supporting Porous Organic Sulfur Structure
UNIV ELECTRONIC SCI & TECH CHINA, 2020
A lithium-sulfur battery cathode material comprising porous organic sulfur with enhanced mechanical structure. The material has a porous organic sulfur structure that can support itself after melting, preventing the formation of insulating Li2S films during repeated charge-discharge cycles. This design enables the cathode material to maintain its electrochemical properties and capacity even after multiple charge-discharge cycles, thereby improving the overall performance of lithium-sulfur batteries.
10. Flower-Shaped Carbon Nanospheres with Molybdenum and Nitrogen Co-Doping in Carbon Framework
UNIV WENZHOU, 2020
Co-doped flower-shaped carbon nanospheres with enhanced sulfur utilization in lithium-sulfur batteries. The nanospheres contain molybdenum and nitrogen, which are covalently incorporated into their carbon framework through C-Mo and CN bonds. This doping enables improved polysulfide ion adsorption while maintaining high sulfur utilization ratios. The flower-shaped structure facilitates rapid electron and ion transfer, enhancing lithium-sulfur battery performance.
11. Atomic Layer Deposition Method for Sulfur/Carbon@Metal Oxide Nanotube Cathode Fabrication
UNIV ZHEJIANG SCIENCE & TECH, 2020
A method for preparing sulfur/carbon@metal oxide nanotube lithium-sulfur battery cathode materials using atomic layer deposition technology. The method involves depositing a carbon-magnesium oxide/sulfur@zinc oxide composite material onto a current collector surface, followed by a zinc oxide coating. This composite material enables the creation of sulfur/carbon@metal oxide nanotube cathode materials with enhanced conductivity, stability, and capacity retention compared to conventional materials.
12. Lithium-Sulfur Battery Cathode Composite with Metal Oxide Integration and Synthesis Method
JIANGSU NORMAL UNIVERSITY, 2019
Lithium-sulfur battery cathode composite material and preparation method that addresses the shuttle effect in lithium-sulfur batteries. The material comprises a lithium-sulfur cathode active material, a lithium-sulfur cathode active material, and a lithium-sulfur cathode active material, where the lithium-sulfur cathode active material is comprised of lithium, sulfur, and a metal oxide, and the lithium-sulfur cathode active material is comprised of lithium, sulfur, and a metal oxide.
13. Method for Fabricating Composite Electrodes with Metal Nitride Nanoparticles and Chemically Bonded Intermediate Layer
GRADUATE SCHOOL SHENZHEN TSINGHUA UNIV, 2019
A method for preparing lithium-sulfur batteries with enhanced electrochemical performance through the modification of metal nitride electrodes. The method involves depositing metal nitride nanoparticles onto a substrate, followed by the formation of an intermediate layer containing active atoms. This intermediate layer is then bonded to the metal nitride through chemical bonding, creating a composite electrode structure. The active layer enhances the electrochemical properties of the metal nitride while preventing the formation of unwanted lithium polysulfide intermediates that can lead to shuttle effects.
14. Method for Forming FeP/CC Composite Interlayer with Integrated Iron Phosphide and Carbon Cloth for Lithium-Sulfur Batteries
ZHAOQING SOUTH CHINA NORMAL UNIV OPTOELECTRONICS IND RES INST, 2019
A method for preparing a lithium-sulfur battery interlayer that enhances the battery's performance by controlling polysulfide migration and redox reactions. The method involves creating an FeP/CC composite material through a tube furnace process that incorporates phosphide (FeP) and carbon cloth. The composite material is then processed into a thin interlayer, which is applied between the sulfur cathode and anode in lithium-sulfur batteries. The FeP/CC composite material contains iron phosphide and carbon cloth, with the phosphide forming a protective barrier against polysulfide migration while the carbon cloth facilitates ion transport. This interlayer architecture enables enhanced electron and ion conduction, improved redox kinetics, and enhanced polysulfide absorption, all of which contribute to improved battery performance and cycle stability.
15. Lithium-Sulfur Battery Separator with Integrated Sulfur Cathode for Polysulfide Migration Prevention
SOUTH CHINA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, South China University of Technology, 2019
Lithium-sulfur battery separator-sulfur cathode composite package assembly that prevents polysulfide shuttle effect through a novel separator design. The assembly integrates a sulfur-based cathode material with a lithium-sulfur separator, where the sulfur material is contained within the separator structure. This design prevents polysulfide migration through the separator to the lithium cathode, thereby maintaining the cathode surface area and preventing polysulfide deposition. The separator structure also contains the sulfur material, ensuring its active area is utilized while preventing polysulfide migration.
16. Lithium-Sulfur Battery Diaphragm Comprising Hydrothermally Synthesized NiMoO4 and Sodium Methacrylate
ZHAOQING SOUTH CHINA NORMAL UNIV OPTOELECTRONICS IND RES INST, 2019
A novel lithium-sulfur battery diaphragm material for lithium-ion batteries that eliminates the shuttle effect through a single-step hydrothermal synthesis of NiMoO4. The material combines bimetallic oxide NiMoO4 with sodium methacrylate, forming a stable and uniform diaphragm that prevents lithium polysulfide migration during charging and discharging. The synthesis process eliminates the need for complex electrode materials, electrolyte additives, and multiple processing steps, enabling high-performance lithium-sulfur batteries with improved cycle life and reduced material costs.
17. Lithium Battery Cell with Sulfur-Bonded Cyclic Polyacrylonitrile Cathode and Polysulfide-Blocking Separator
ROBERT BOSCH GMBH, Robert Bosch GmbH, SIO Incorporated, 2018
A lithium battery cell featuring a sulfur-based cathode with enhanced stability and cycle life. The cell comprises a cathode containing sulfur-bonded cyclic polyacrylonitrile (SPAN) material, a lithium metal anode, and a separator. The separator is composed of a lithium salt-containing electrolyte with a high dielectric constant, preventing sulfur migration and polysulfide diffusion. The separator also contains an active barrier that captures sulfur species through chemical reactions, preventing polysulfide migration and maintaining cathode capacity. This design achieves stable cycling and long battery life by preventing sulfur diffusion and polysulfide migration, while maintaining the high capacity of sulfur-based cathodes.
18. Lithium-Sulfur Battery Separator-Cathode Composite with Polysulfide Migration Control
SOUTH CHINA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, 2018
A lithium-sulfur battery separator-sulfur cathode composite package assembly with enhanced polysulfide shuttle prevention that improves energy density and service life. The assembly comprises a composite separator material that contains a sulfur-based active material, and a cathode separator material that contains sulfur-based active material. The composite separator material contains a sulfur-based active material that prevents polysulfide migration through the separator during battery discharge. This prevents the shuttle effect that reduces battery performance and lifespan by containing the polysulfides in the separator.
19. Lithium-Sulfur Battery with ALD Sulfur Adsorbents and MLD Polymeric Films
BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS, 2018
A lithium-sulfur battery that achieves higher energy density than current commercial batteries through a novel combination of atomic layer deposition (ALD) and molecular layer deposition (MLD) technologies. The battery utilizes ALD-deposited sulfur adsorbents to prevent polysulfide migration between the cathode and anode, while MLD-grown flexible polymeric films enhance electrical conductivity and mechanical integrity of the sulfur cathode. This integrated approach enables the creation of Li-S batteries with specific energy densities exceeding 1500 Wh/kg, while maintaining high rate capabilities and cyclability.
20. Iron-Nitrogen Double-Doped Porous Carbonaceous Cathode Material for Lithium-Sulfur Batteries
BEIJING INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, 2018
Iron-nitrogen heteroatom double-doped porous carbonaceous cathode material for lithium-sulfur batteries, and a lithium-sulfur battery using the carbonaceous cathode material. The material is prepared through a process that combines the doping of porous carbon with elemental sulfur through heat treatment. The resulting material exhibits enhanced conductivity, controlled sulfur product formation, and suppressed polysulfide shuttle effects, leading to improved lithium-sulfur battery performance.
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