A Comprehensive Understanding of Lithium–Sulfur Battery Technology

Abstract Lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs) are regarded as a new kind of energy storage device due to their remarkable theoretical energy density. However, some issues, such as the low conductivity and the large volume variation of sulfur, as well as the formation of polysulfides during cycling, are yet to be addressed before LSBs can become an actual reality. Here, presented is a comprehensive overview illustrating the techniques capable of mitigating these undesirable problems together with the electrochemical performances associated to the different proposed solutions. In particular, the analysis is organized by separately addressing cathode, anode, separator, and electrolyte. Furthermore, to better understand the chemistry and failure mechanisms of LSBs, important characterization techniques applied to energy storage systems are reviewed. Similarly, considerations on the theoretical approaches used in the energy storage field are provided, as they can become the key tool for the design of the next generation LSBs. Afterward, the state of the art of LSBs technology is presented from a geopolitical perspective by comparing the results achieved in this field by the main world actors, namely Asia, North America, and Europe. Finally, this review is concluded with the application status of LSBs technology, and its prospects are offered.