Summary on lithium-sulphur batteries (Draft 1)

The article "How an accidental discovery made this year could change the world" by William Lockett (Apr 2022) introduced the discovery of a new type Lithium-Sulfur battery. It was an unexpected discovery as the Drexel team tried to slow down the chemical reactions that create polysulfides as the batteries charge and discharge to extend battery life. While slowing down the chemical reaction, Drexel's team was shocked to discover that one of the sulfur chemical phases could actually stop the battery from degrading. This chemical phase is called "monoclinic gamma-phase sulfur," and the reaction that generates polysulfides stops completely at this stage. This approach worked so well that the battery could undergo 4,000 charge cycles without a drop in capacity, lasting at least twice as long as a lithium-ion battery. This means that lithium-sulfur batteries can now power a variety of activities such as short-haul flights, cargo ships, passenger ferries, and more, increasing the viability of net-zero emissions. In addition, lithium, sulfur, and other components used to make this new battery are readily available on Earth. By doing so, a stronger supply chain is ensured and the ecological impact of mining is significantly reduced. 

Updated on 24/09/2022