Insight on the Li2S electrochemical process in a composite configuration electrode

Abstract

A novel, low cost and environmentally sustainable lithium sulfide–carbon composite cathode, suitably prepared by combining polyethylene oxide (PEO), LiCF3SO3 and Li2S–C powders is presented herein. The cathode is characterized in a lithium-metal cell employing a solution of LiCF3SO3 salt in dioxolane–dimethylether (DOL:DME) as the electrolyte. The detailed NMR investigation of the diffusion properties of the electrolyte is reported in order to determine its suitability for the proposed cell. The addition of LiNO3 to the electrolyte solution allows its practical application in a lithium sulfur cell using an Li2S–C-based cathode characterized by a specific capacity of about 500 mA h g-1 (with respect to the Li2S mass). The cell holds its optimal performances for over 70 cycles at a C/5 rate, with a steady state efficiency approaching 99%. The X-ray diffraction patterns of the cell upon operation suggest the reversibility of the Li2S electrochemical process, while the repeated electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements indicate the suitability of the electrode–electrolyte interface in terms of low and stable cell impedance. Furthermore, the EIS study clarifies the activation process occurring at the Li2S cathode during the first charge process, leading to a decrease of cell polarization during the following cycles. The data reported here shed light on important aspects which should be considered for the efficient application of a Li2S cathode in lithium batteries