Catalytic Co/Cu heterostructure nanoparticles in N-doped carbon spheres boost polysulfide redox kinetics

Abstract

In emerging lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries, the significant redox kinetic barriers and the severe shuttle effect of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) are major challenges that hinder their practical use. In this study, Co/Cu heterostructure nanoparticles, highly dispersed within N-doped hollow carbon spheres (Cu/Co@NC), are meticulously designed and synthesized, serving as both an adsorbent and a catalyst for advanced Li–S batteries.