Reduced graphene oxide participation enabling fast nano-homogeneous deposition of sulfur for lithium–sulfur battery cathode

Abstract

We present a facile, rapid, and gentle approach to synthesize a cathode for lithium-sulfur batteries utilizing reduced graphene oxide (rGO). The rGO sheets are introduced into a supersaturated sulfur solution, resulting in the uniform crystallization of sulfur nanoparticles on the rGO sheets. This process also effectively inhibits the shrinking and stacking of the rGO sheets. Thus, it is possible to achieve adequate utilization of sulfur during the charge/discharge process even when the sulfur mass ratio is high at 70%. Meanwhile, the physical adsorption effect of the host material is fully aroused, resulting in a favorable cycle life of 76.87% capacity retention after 400 cycles at 0.5C. The synthesized material exhibits remarkable homogeneity and electrochemical performance with great potential for practical applications, reaching the forefront of lithium-sulfur (Li–S) battery cathodes utilizing rGO as a host material without metal compounds or heteroatom doping. This approach holds great promise for the loading of sulfur in rGO-based Li–S battery.