Developing high energy density fast charging lithium sulfur battery

The EU Green Deal Action Plan identifies electric vehicles (EVs) as key to reducing emissions from transportation. Adoption of EVs is closely linked to progress in rechargeable battery technology. While lithium ion (Li-ion) batteries dominate the EV market, there is a need to develop safe batteries that provide high energy density, fast charging, and are free of expensive metals such as Ni/Mn/Co – as outlined in “Battery 2030+” roadmap. Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries are promising for beyond Li-ion battery technology because they possess high theoretical specific energy density of 2600 Wh kg-1. This, combined with the fact that Li-S batteries use earth abundant materials with readily available supply chain, makes them the most viable technology for achieving batteries with energy densities exceeding 500 Wh kg-1. The major challenges facing of Li-S batteries that have hindered their commercialization are sluggish reaction kinetics, lithium polysulfide shuttling, and unstable lithium metal anode. The project addresses these challenges and aims to realize practical and safe Li-S batteries with energy densities of 500 Wh kg-1, stable cycling, and fast charging based on recent discoveries by the applicant and the host laboratory. The MSCA-PF in the host group will allow the applicant to make significant research progress and develop soft skills that will significantly enhance the applicant’s career prospects.