S−ZnO/CNTs Microspheres Prepared by Spray Drying for Improved Cathodes in Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries

Abstract

AbstractIn this work, S−ZnO/CNTs microspheres were prepared by spray drying to yield caddice‐like ball morphologies, composed of large numbers of carbon nanotubes deposited with ZnO nanoparticles. This synthesis route was advantageous since sulfur was loaded simultaneously and caddice‐like ball morphologies were formed in one step during spray drying. The unique hierarchical structure and polycrystalline nature of S−ZnO/CNTs microspheres did not only facilitate the physical and chemical confinement of sulfur but also inhibited shuttling behaviors of polysulfides. Therefore, the testing of S−ZnO/CNTs composite as cathodes in Li−S batteries revealed elevated initial specific capacities reaching 1237.2 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C. In addition, the cathodes presented cycling stabilities, with 919.2 mAh g−1 retained capacitance after 150 cycles. At elevated C‐rate of 3 C, the cathodes showed also substantial specific capacities reaching 495.6 mAh g−1. Overall, the proposed preparation strategy looks promising for preparation of future advanced cathode materials for (Li−S) batteries.