One step synthesis of sulfur–carbon nanosheet hybrids via a solid solvothermal reaction for lithium sulfur batteries

Abstract

Sulfur–carbon nanosheet hybrids (SCNHs) are simply synthesized by a single-step solid solvothermal reaction as the cathode material for lithium sulfur (LiS) batteries. Sulfur is homogeneously embedded into the carbon nanosheet by an in situ hybridization process, which enhances the electron and ion transportation due to the higher electronic conductivity and morphology, respectively. The solid solvothermal reaction provides insight into the unique chemical-state of the sulfur content in the sulfur–carbon hybrids due to the small difference in electronegativity between sulfur and carbon contents. This characteristic effect on the production of electrolyte-dissoluble lithium sulfide in the electrochemical reaction can enhance the cycle performance of the hybrid as a cathode material in LiS batteries. The SCNHs show improved electrochemical performance of 810 mA h g⁻¹ at 100 mA g⁻¹ and excellent Coulombic efficiency close to 100% at a high rate.