Enhanced Interfacial Stability of Hybrid‐Electrolyte Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries with a Layer of Multifunctional Polymer with Intrinsic Nanoporosity

Abstract

AbstractThe use of lithium‐ion conductive solid electrolytes offers a promising approach to address the polysulfide shuttle and the lithium‐dendrite problems in lithium‐sulfur (Li‐S) batteries. One critical issue with the development of solid‐electrolyte Li‐S batteries is the electrode–electrolyte interfaces. Herein, a strategic approach is presented by employing a thin layer of a polymer with intrinsic nanoporosity (PIN) on a Li+‐ion conductive solid electrolyte, which significantly enhances the ionic interfaces between the electrodes and the solid electrolyte. Among the various types of Li+‐ion solid electrolytes, NASICON‐type Li1+xAlxTi2‐x(PO4)3 (LATP) offers advantages in terms of Li+‐ion conductivity, stability in ambient environment, and practical viability. However, LATP is susceptible to reaction with both the Li‐metal anode and polysulfides in Li‐S batteries due to the presence of easily reducible Ti4+ ions in it. The coating with a thin layer of PIN presented in this study overcomes the above issues. At the negative‐electrode side, the PIN layer prevents the direct contact of Li‐metal with the LATP solid electrolyte, circumventing the reduction of LATP by Li metal. At the positive electrode side, the PIN layer prevents the migration of polysulfides to the surface of LATP, preventing the reduction of LATP by polysulfides.