Heteroatom-doped carbons: synthesis, chemistry and application in lithium/sulphur batteries

Abstract

Doping of heteroatoms into carbon not only changes the electronic distribution but also creates surface functional groups. These changes prove to enhance the chemical adsorption of carbon to sulphur species, and have been intensively investigated to sequestrate soluble lithium polysulphide in the cathode of lithium/sulphur (Li/S) batteries. The chemical adsorption varies with the type, valence state and content of heteroatoms in a complicated manner. In this review, the syntheses of heteroatom-doped carbons as well as their applications and mechanisms in the Li/S batteries are highlighted and discussed with a focus on oxygen, sulphur, nitrogen and their mixtures.