Abstract:
A free-standing sulfur/nitrogen-doped carbon nanotube (S/N-CNT) composite prepared via a simple solution
method was first studied as a cathode material for lithium/sulfur batteries. By taking advantage of the self-weaving
behavior of N-CNT, binders and current collectors are rendered unnecessary in the cathode, thereby simplifying its
manufacturing and increasing the sulfur weight ratio in the electrode. Transmission electronic microscopy showed
the formation of a highly developed core-shell tubular structure consisting of S/N-CNT composite with uniform
sulfur coating on the surface of N-CNT. As a core in the composite, the N-CNT with N functionalization provides a
highly conductive and mechanically flexible framework, enhancing the electronic conductivity and consequently
the rate capability of the material.