ZnO quantum dot-modified rGO with enhanced electrochemical performance for lithium–sulfur batteries

Lithium-sulfur batteries are considered the most promising next-generation energy storage devices. However, problems like sluggish reaction kinetics and severe shuttle effect need to be solved before the commercialization of Li-S batteries. Here, we successfully prepared ZnO quantum dot-modified reduced graphene oxide (rGO@ZnO QDs), and first introduced it into Li-S cathodes (rGO@ZnO QDs/S). Due to its merits of a catalysis effect and enhancing the reaction kinetics, low surface impedance, and efficient adsorption of polysulfide, rGO@ZnO QDs/S presented excellent rate capacity with clear discharge plateaus even at a high rate of 4C, and superb cycle performance. An initial discharge capacity of 998.8 mA h g-1 was delivered, of which 73.3% was retained after 400 cycles at a high rate of 1C. This work provides a new concept to introduce quantum dots into lithium-sulfur cathodes to realize better electrochemical performance.