Two dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) materials and alloys as catalysts for cathode in lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries

Abstract

Two-dimensional (2D) material-based metal or alloy catalysts synthesized on carbon materials (e.g., carbon nanotubes) prevent polysulfide shuttling and overcome technical challenges for developing practical lithium-sulfur (Li—S) batteries. Soluble lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) tend to shuttle during battery cycling and corrode a Li anode, leading to eventual performance fading in the Li—S battery. This shuttle effect can be reduced by accelerating the conversion of the dissolved polysulfides to the insoluble LiPSs and back to the sulfur. A 2D material-based alloy or 2D material synthesized on carbon materials can suppress polysulfide shuttling by catalyzing polysulfide reactions. 2D material-based alloys with 2H (semiconducting)-1T (metallic) mixed phase exhibit synergistic effects of accelerated electron transfer and catalytic performance as confirmed by the lower charge-transfer resistance of carbon nanotube (CNT)-S cathode and the high binding energy of LiPSs to the catalyst.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.