The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

Li-S batteries offer high energy density in terms of both volume and cost. However, their practical application is still hindered by slow reaction kinetics during the liquid–solid conversion processes. Thus, electrocatalysts play a critical role by reducing the activation energy for electrochemical reactions. A design challenge for electrocatalysts is it must simultaneously possess ion-philic polarity to attract polysulfide and electron-philic conductivity to facilitate electron transfer. In this presentation, we propose a strategy to design redox-mediating polymers by leveraging materials informatics for screening reduction potentials, along with DFT-based structural analysis. In results, we developed anthracenequinone-based polymer redox mediators that significantly enhance the energy density of Li–S batteries. This work demonstrates a rational design strategy for polymeric redox boosters that efficiently mediate ion and electron transport.