A Review of Electrospun Carbon-based Nanofibers Materials Used in Lithium-Sulfur Batteries.

Abstract

Commercial lithium-ion batteries are gradually approaching their theoretical values (200-250 Wh kg-1), which cannot meet the fast-growing energy storage demands. Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries are anticipated to supersede lithium-ion batteries as the next-generation energy storage system owing to their high theoretical specific capacity (1675 mAh g-1) and energy density (2600 Wh kg-1). Nonetheless, Li-S batteries encounter several challenges, including the inadequate conductivity of sulfur and lithium sulfide, sulfur's volume expansion, and the shuttle effect of lithium polysulfides, all of which significantly impact the practical utilization of Li-S batteries. Electrospun carbon-based nanofibers can simultaneously resolve these issues with their economical preparation, distinctive nanostructure, and exceptional flexibility. This review presents the most recent research findings on electrospun carbon-based nanofibers materials serving as sulfur hosts and interlayer components in Li-S batteries. We analyzed the impact of the material's structural design on the performance of Li-S batteries and the relative underlying mechanism. Finally, the current challenges and issues faced by carbon-based nanofibers composites in the application of Li-S batteries are summarized, and the future development trajectory are outlined.