Bidirectional catalysis of Co_(0.4)Ni_(1.6)P for Li_(2)S_(1-2) deposition/decomposition reactions in Li-S batteries

To improve the electrochemical activity of S electrodes in Li-S batteries,the synergistic electrocatalysis mechanism of Co_(0.4)Ni_(1.6)P with Ni and Co bimetal interactions is clarified.The alternating crystal structure of Co and Ni regulates the adsorption and decomposition energy of Co_(0.4)Ni_(1.6)P to polysulfides and has the bidirectional catalysis for the Li_(2)S_(1-2)deposition/decomposition process.Co_(0.4)Ni_(1.6)P can promote the breaking of the S-S bond of Li_(2)S_(4) and decrease the decomposition energy barrier of Li_(2)S.This regulation accelerates the discharge/charge reaction between S,polysulfides,and Li_(2)S and improves the kinetics of the S electrodes.The 1st,100^(th),and 200^(th) discharge capacity densities at 0.1 mA cm^(-2) of the S electrodes with a high sulfur loading were 1,405,987.2,and 828.4 m Ah gS^(-1),respectively.The bidirectional catalytic mechanism is a novel idea for improving the electrochemical performance of Li-S batteries.