Highly Efficient and Cost‐Effective Single‐Atom Catalysts for Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries Exceeding 540 Wh kg −1

ABSTRACT Despite the high theoretical energy density (2600 Wh kg −1 ) of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries, their practical application in low‐altitude unmanned aerial vehicles is severely hindered by sluggish reaction kinetics and the severe shuttle effect of lithium polysulfides, making it difficult to meet the stringent demands for high‐rate capability and high energy density. Single‐atom catalysts (SACs) have emerged as a promising strategy to accelerate polysulfide conversion kinetics. However, conventional SACs often face challenges such as high preparation costs, complex synthetic processes, and catalyst poisoning due to excessively strong binding with sulfur species. To address these technical and economic limitations, this work focuses on developing cost‐effective and efficient materials for large‐scale energy storage. Graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C 3 N 4 ), a low‐cost, easily scalable material with abundant nitrogen coordination sites, was selected as the substrate to prepare an atomically dispersed SAC (Mn‐CN). Benefiting from the unique half‐filled 3d electronic configuration of the Mn atom, the catalyst directly establishes a robust “Mn–S and Li–N” dual‐coordination mechanism. This specific interaction effectively activates the Li─S bond and substantially lowers the thermodynamic energy barriers, thereby improving the redox kinetics of polysulfide conversion. Consequently, the assembled Li–S batteries maintain a reversible capacity of 658 mAh g −1 at a high rate of 4 C and exhibit stable long cycling performance. Furthermore, the assembled 14 Ah‐level pouch cell achieves an initial energy density of 547 Wh kg −1 and over 30 stable cycles. This work provides a practical approach for preparing cost‐effective and efficient single‐atom catalysts, supporting the industrial application of high‐energy‐density Li–S batteries.