Novel functional separator with self-assembled MnO2 layer via a simple and fast method in lithium-sulfur battery
Publication Name
Journal of Colloid and Interface Science
Abstract
Modifying separator with metal oxides has been considered as a strong strategy to inhibit the shuttling of soluble polysulfide in the lithium-sulfur battery (Li-S battery). Manganese dioxide (MnO2), one kind of transition metal oxide, is widely applied to decorate the PP (Polypropylene) separator. However, the fabrication by physical coating is always multistep and complicated. Here, we design a simple and fast method to chemically decorate separator. Based on the oxidizing property of acidic KMnO4 solution, the PP separator was oxidized and an ultrathin self-assembled MnO2 layer was directly constructed on one side of separator, by immersing in acidic KMnO4 solution for only 1 h. The self-assembled MnO2 layer has the synergistic effect of adsorption and catalytic conversion on polysulfides, which can effectively inhibit the shuttle effect. It can also help battery to maintain excellent electrochemical kinetics in the electrochemical cycle and maintain the effective recycling of active substances. As a result, the shuttling of polysulfide is greatly prohibited by this novel functional separator, and cycling stability is outstandingly improved, with a low-capacity decaying of 0.058% after 500 cycles at 0.5C. The rapid and simple modification method proposed in this study has a certain reference value for the future large-scale application of lithium-sulfur battery.
Open Access Status
This publication is not available as open access
Volume
606
First Page
666
Last Page
676
Funding Number
2019YFC1900602
Funding Sponsor
National Key Research and Development Program of China