ZnO/C nanostructures as efficient polysulfide "trapping & nucleation" matrix for high-performance lithium–sulfur batteries

In this study, a series of carbonaceous materials synthesised through a simple and novel method using ZnO nanostructures as templating agents were investigated and evaluated. These ZnO nanostructures also enhanced the performance of Li S batteries due to their affinity for polysulfides (PSs), eliminating the need for additional activation processes. The resulting micro-, meso-, and macroporous materials were utilised to investigate the influence of the ZnO/C ratio on battery performance. The composites under consideration were prepared by combining the ZnO/C materials with 70 % sulfur (CZn(x)@S), which was infiltrated into the pores of the carbon material. The electrode prepared with CZn(1)@S, characterised by a higher ZnO/C ratio, delivered an exceptional initial discharge capacity of 1260 mAh g −1 as a cathode material. Moreover, this electrode demonstrated good rate capability, retaining discharge capacities of 1075 mAh g −1 at C/3 and 873 mAh g −1 after 200 cycles, even under increased C-rates during extended cycling. This innovative approach facilitated the direct formation of uniquely structured 3D carbonaceous materials in a single-step synthesis. According to the experimental results, the materials synthesised using the proposed method proved to be an efficient matrix for the generation and capture of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) in high-performance lithium‑sulfur (Li S) batteries, making it a promising candidate for further research in high-performance battery development. • Multifunctional sulfur host carbon materials for Li S batteries was synthesised. • Carbon materials with a high surface area were obtained using ZnO as templates. • The materials demonstrated excellent electrochemical performance in Li S battery. • The influence of the C/ZnO ratio in the structure, property and performance was studied.