Recent Progress of Anode Protection in Li–S Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries have gradually reached their theoretical limits. To meet the growing demand for higher energy storage technology, finding alternative battery chemistries has become the major concern. Fortunately, lithium–sulfur batteries are considered the most promising next-generation energy storage technology due to being cost-effective and having high theoretical energy density. However, the further commercialization of lithium–sulfur batteries is hindered due to the growth of lithium dendrites and the shuttle effect of soluble lithium polysulfides. This review provides an overview of the challenges facing lithium–sulfur batteries. Furthermore, a comprehensive overview of lithium metal protection strategies is provided including electrolyte optimization, construction of artificial solid electrolyte layers, utilization of hosting materials, and design of separators, as well as a theoretical understanding and analysis of the underlying methods. This review puts forward general conclusions and prospects for the practical application of lithium–sulfur batteries in the future and the promotion of technology development of lithium metal batteries.