Developing Cathode Films for Practical All-Solid-State Lithium-Sulfur Batteries

The development of all-solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries (ASSLSBs) toward large-scale electrochemical energy storage is driven by the higher specific energies and lower cost in comparison with the state-of-the-art Li-ion batteries. Yet, insufficient mechanistic understanding and quantitative parameters of the key components in sulfur-based cathode hinders the advancement of the ASSLSB technologies. This review offers a comprehensive analysis of electrode parameters, including specific capacity, voltage, S mass loading and S content toward establishing the specific energy (Wh kg⁻¹) and energy density (Wh L⁻¹) of the ASSLSBs. Additionally, this work critically evaluates the progress in enhancing lithium ion and electron percolation and mitigating electrochemical-mechanical degradation in sulfur-based cathodes. Last, a critical outlook on potential future research directions is provided to guide the rational design of high-performance sulfur-based cathodes toward practical ASSLSBs. © 2024 The Author(s). Advanced Materials published by Wiley-VCH GmbH.