NANOMATERIALS FOR HIGH-PERFORMANCE LITHIUM SULFUR BATTERY

Abstract

In this thesis, scalable design strategies were employed to overcome the challenges associated with lithium-sulfur batteries (LSB). In Chapter 2, the use of a preformed cathode structure prevented structural instability and maximized electrochemically active surface area for optimal electrochemical performance. In Chapter 3, a LSB with high areal capacity was achieved by nanomaterial-modified separators, which comprised of conductive nitride/carbonitride/carbide nanoparticles on carbon as effective polysulfide redox mediators. The combination of the high sulfur loading cathode with the nanomaterial-modified separator enables high-performance LSB with high areal capacities. In Chapter 4, a method to prepare free-standing electrodes was developed. The use of a novel hydrogel binder enabled effective material dispersion, imparting mechanical strength and enhancing electronic connectivity. The high scalability and versatility of this method allowed it to be applied to conventional battery production. The above studies illustrate new concepts in designing electrodes that would impact the applications of lithium batteries.