Nanospace-Confinement Copolymerization Strategy for Encapsulating Polymeric Sulfur into Porous Carbon for Lithium–Sulfur Batteries

Given their high theoretical energy density, lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries have recently attracted ever-increasing research interest. However, the dissolution of polysulfides and uncontrolled deposition of insoluble discharge product significantly hinder the cycling stability. Herein, a nanospace-confinement copolymerization strategy for encapsulating polymeric sulfur into porous carbon matrix is presented. The morphologies and sulfur contents of carbon/polymeric sulfur (C/PS) composites could be readily tailored by controlling the copolymerization time. Confining polymeric sulfur in the porous carbon with abundant interparticle pores facilitates rapid electronic/ionic transport and mitigates dissolution of polysulfides intermediates. More importantly, the organic sulfur units dispersed in the insoluble/insulating Li₂S₂/Li₂S phase could prevent its irreversible deposition. Such nanostructure with tailored chemistry property permits the C/PS electrodes to exhibit enhanced cycling stability and high rate capability. The nanospace-confinement copolymerization strategy features general and facial advantages, which may provide new opportunities for the future development of advanced sulfur cathodes.