Research Projects

The global interest in alternative energy sources, particularly rechargeable batteries, is growing due to their potential applications in portable consumer electronics and electric vehicles. However, the current Li-ion batteries have limited storage capacity due to their structure and electrode materials, making them insufficient for EVs and grid storage. The demand for a more powerful energy storage system is increasing, and lithium-sulfur (Li-S) is considered the most promising next-generation high-energy storage system. Li-S batteries can store more than five times more energy theoretically than conventional LIBs. However, challenges such as preventing sulfur/polysulfide dissolution in the electrolyte, controlling Li metal amounts to improve safety and reduce costs, and suppressing lithium dendrite growth are necessary for commercialization. The proposed Li-S battery aims to develop a safer and sustainable Li-S battery that can deliver high energy density, extended cycle life, and reduced costs. The improvement focuses on encapsulating/ accommodating/ anchoring and stabilizing the sulfur allotrope (gamma sulfur), which reduces polysulfide dissolution. Using suitable conducting hosts like porous graphene, activated carbons, metal or metal oxides decorated graphene/graphene oxide, and polymer PAN fiber, the proposed Li-S battery has a fair chance of dominating the energy market and potentially replacing traditional Li-ion batteries.