Smart coating makes lithium-sulphur batteries last 5x longer

Source: interestingengineering
Author: @IntEngineering
Published: 8/22/2025
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Read original articleResearchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) have developed a patented smart coating called HiSep-II that significantly extends the lifespan of lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries, potentially making them five times longer-lasting. Li-S batteries, which promise higher energy density, faster charging, better safety, and lower costs compared to lithium-ion batteries, have been hindered by rapid degradation caused by the shuttle effect—where lithium polysulfides migrate between the battery’s electrodes, reducing capacity. The HiSep-II coating, applied to the battery separator, acts as a selective filter that blocks these harmful polysulfides while allowing lithium ions to pass, thereby mitigating degradation.
Lab tests show that Li-S cells with the HiSep-II coating can increase their charge cycle life from about 200 to 1,000 cycles, which could translate into lighter and more efficient battery packs for electric vehicles—potentially reducing battery pack weight by over 200 kilograms. The coating is also cost-effective, environmentally friendly
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energylithium-sulphur-batteriesbattery-technologyelectric-vehiclessmart-coatingbattery-lifespanenergy-storage