Electrosynthesis of 1,4-bis(diphenylphosphanyl) tetrasulfide via sulfur radical addition as cathode material for rechargeable lithium battery

• DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23521-1
• Publication Date: 2021-05-28T10:20:17Z
• Authors: Dan-Yang Wang; Yubing Si; Wei Guo; Yongzhu Fu
• Keywords: Electrosynthesis; Polysulfide

Abstract Organic electrodes are promising as next generation energy storage materials originating from their enormous chemical diversity and electrochemical specificity. Although organic synthesis methods have been extended to a broad range, facile selective still needed expose the corners of space. Herein, we report organopolysulfide, 1,4-bis(diphenylphosphanyl)tetrasulfide, which is synthesized by oxidation diphenyl dithiophosphinic acid featuring cleavage P–S single bond sulfur radical addition reaction. Density functional theory proves that external electric field triggers intramolecular rearrangement through dehydrogenation migration along axis. Impressively, Li/bis(diphenylphosphanyl)tetrasulfide cell exhibits high discharge voltage 2.9 V stable cycling performance 500 cycles with capacity retention 74.8%. Detailed characterizations confirm reversible lithiation/delithiation process. This work demonstrates offers approach for preparation advanced materials.