Rational Electrolyte Design toward Cyclability Remedy for Room-Temperature Sodium-Sulfur Batteries

Abstract

Rechargeable room-temperature sodium-sulfur (RT Na-S) batteries are a promising energy storage technology, owing to the merits of high energy density and low cost. However, their electrochemical performance has been severely hindered by the poor compatibility between the existing electrolytes and the electrodes. Here, we demonstrate that an all-fluorinated electrolyte, containing 2,2,2-trifluoro-N,N-dimethylacetamide (FDMA) solvent, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethyl methyl ether (MTFE) anti-solvent and fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) additive, can greatly enhance the reversibility and cyclability of RT Na-S batteries. A NaF- and Na₃ N-rich cathode electrolyte interphase derived from FDMA and FEC enables a "quasi-solid-phase" Na-S conversion, eliminating the shuttle of polysulfides. The MTFE not only reduces polysulfide dissolution, but also further stabilizes the Na anode via a tailored solvation structure. The as-developed RT Na-S batteries deliver a high capacity, long lifespan, and enhanced safety.

Keywords: All-Fluorinated Electrolyte; Cathode Electrolyte Interphase; Quasi-Solid-Phase Conversion; Sodium-Sulfur Batteries; Solvation Structure.