A solid electrolyte gives lithium-sulfur batteries ludicrous endurance

Sulfur can store significantly more lithium than traditional materials like silicon, but its reactivity and structural expansion pose challenges for battery performance. This includes the tendency for sulfur to react with itself, releasing ions that can compromise the battery's effectiveness and lead to rapid degradation. Researchers have addressed these challenges by developing lithium-sulfur batteries that can retain more than 80% of their capacity even after extensive charge/discharge cycles, indicating a substantial advancement in battery technology.

Despite its critical limitations, the push for lithium-sulfur batteries continues, as they offer the potential for lightweight and compact solutions compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. Researchers noted that employing a more reactive solid electrolyte has effectively mitigated the issues related to sulfur's instability and conductivity, enabling enhanced longevity and performance. This breakthrough could pave the way for more efficient, cost-effective energy storage solutions suitable for a wide array of applications, from consumer electronics to electric vehicles.

Read at Ars Technica