Fast‐Charging Lithium–Sulfur Batteries

Abstract The growing demand for sustainable energy solutions has intensified research into lithium‐sulfur batteries (LSBs) due to their potential for high energy density, though their commercialization is primarily hindered by challenges in achieving satisfactory cycle stability and energy density, with fast‐charging capabilities also requiring significant improvement. This review explores strategies to enhance the fast‐charging capabilities of LSBs, addressing critical issues such as lithium polysulfide (LiPSs) shuttling, sluggish reaction kinetics, and lithium dendrite formation. The review discusses the mechanisms of fast‐charging, followed by a comprehensive analysis of key techniques and the crucial role of various battery components that can revolutionize fast‐charging capabilities. It covers challenges related to electrical and ionic conductivity, optimizing Li‐ion mobility, immobilizing LiPS, designing suitable electrolytes, integrating catalysts to accelerate LiPSs conversion, and engineering cathodes and separator modifications. Additionally, the review discusses scaling challenges for fast‐charging LSBs, including electrolyte design, sulfur loading, polysulfide shuttle mitigation, and electrode stability. The review concludes by providing future perspectives on developing next‐generation LSBs that could transform the energy storage landscape, with a sustainable, high‐capacity, and rapid‐charging alternative to current battery technologies, with significant implications for electric vehicles and portable electronics.