A water-stable, light-weight, MOF-based membrane for mitigating polysulfide shuttling in Li–S batteries

Abstract

Li–S batteries are considered as promising energy storage devices for future applications due to their high theoretical energy density. The “shuttle effect” is a fundamental problem that limits practical Li–S battery performance and impedes their commercial viability. In this work, we report a water-stable, light-weight, MOF-based interlayer for a Li–S battery as a highly efficient polysulfide barrier. The main component of this interlayer is a water-stable Co-based MOF, which can immobilize soluble polysulfides via abundant metal (Co) ions and heteroatoms (N, O), and promote sulfur redox reaction kinetics, leading to a significantly alleviated “shuttle effect”. Remarkable electrochemical performance of the Li–S cell was maintained even at an ultralow loading of the interlayer (0.08 mg cm⁻²). This study offers guidance for future design of MOF-based interlayers for enhanced Li–S battery performance.