scientists from the helmholtz center in berlin and the technical university of berlin have made significant progress in the development of next-generation lithium-sulfur batteries. they have solved the main challenges that have long hindered the commercialization and mass production of lithium-sulfur batteries. this advancement paves the way for higher-capacity, safer, and more durable batteries.
the authors have succeeded in creating a unique porous polymer called a radical cationic functional organic framework (cof). this cof functions as a highly active catalyst in lithium-sulfur batteries, capturing harmful by-products and converting them into useful sulfur.
this class of materials includes polysulfides, which can lead to rapid degradation and capacity loss. the main component of this new material is a radical molecule based on tetrathiafulvalene (ttf). these molecules have unpaired electrons, which enhance the overall catalytic activity and electrical conductivity of the system.
the results are impressive. batteries using this new material can withstand more than 1,500 cycles with minimal capacity loss (just 0.027% per cycle). this is a performance that has never been achieved with lithium-sulfur batteries before, and this technology holds great promise for future energy applications.
