Electrospun carbon nanofibers with MnS sulfiphilic sites as efficient polysulfide barriers for high-performance wide-temperature-range Li-S batteries

Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries have the advantages of high theoretical capacity and energy density, which are considered as promising for future energy storage. Besides, the high gravimetric energy density makes Li-S batteries more suitable as power sources for apparatuses such as high-altitude drones and space vehicles. For these applications, the batteries should have a low self-discharge and a wide temperature range. Herein, we introduce carbon nanofibers with MnS sulfiphilic sites as flexible interlayers into Li-S batteries, reducing the shuttle effect and accelerating the reaction kinetics through physical inhibition, chemical adsorption and conversion that promote synergy. The self-discharge of the cell is significantly weakened. The voltage is maintained at 2.37 V during 150 hours resting after 20 cycles. For a sulfur loading of 2 mg cm(-2), the capacity is as high as 714 mA h g(-1) after 400 cycles at 1C at room temperature. Besides, the operating temperature of the cell is broadened. At 55 degrees C and 0 degrees C, the capacity can be stabilized at 894 mA h g(-1) and 853 mA h g(-1) after 100 cycles at 0.5C, respectively. This work can gain wide research interest toward lithium-sulfur batteries for applications in extreme environments.