A novel battery scheme: Coupling nanostructured phosphorus anodes with lithium sulfide cathodes

Lithium-ion batteries are approaching their theoretical limit and can no longer keep up with the increasing demands of human society. Lithium-sulfur batteries, with a high theoretical specific energy, are promising candidates for next generation energy storage. However, the use of Li metal in Li-S batteries compromises both safety and performance, enabling dendrite formation and causing fast capacity degradation. Previous studies have probed alternative battery systems to replace the metallic Li in Li-S system, such as a Si/Li₂S couple, with limited success in performance. Recently, there is a focus on red P as a favorable anode material to host Li. Here, we establish a novel battery scheme by utilizing a P/C nanocomposite anode and pairing it with a Li₂S coated carbon nanofiber cathode. We find that red P anode can be compatible in ether-based electrolyte systems and can be successfully coupled to a Li₂S cathode. Our proof of concept full-cell displays remarkable specific capacity, rate and cycling performances. We expect our work will provide a useful alternative system and valuable insight in the quest for next generation energy storage devices.