Zhao, S.Fang, R.Sun, Z.Wang, S.Veder, J.Saunders, M.Cheng, H.Liu, C.Jiang, S.P.Li, F.2022-03-072022-03-072018small methods, 2018; 2(6):1800067-1-1800067-92366-96082366-9608https://hdl.handle.net/2440/134549Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries are highly attractive as next-generation electrochemical energy-storage technologies because they can provide a high energy density at a low cost. However, the performance degradation of sulfur cathodes with high mass loadings remains a significant challenge to be addressed. Here, a 3D multifunctional integrated and sponge-like architecture is designed as the cathode framework, which provides a favorable balance between high sulfur loadings and uncompromised electrochemical performances. In this architecture, a highly porous nitrogen-doped carbon fiber foam is used as a 3D current collector and host for sulfur accommodation and a thin graphene layer is used for polysulfide interception, which not only facilitates fast electron and lithium-ion transport but also enables effective active material immobilization by both physical restriction and chemical adsorption. With a sulfur loading of 7.7 mg cm⁻², high areal capacities up to 8.7 mAh cm⁻² are attained together with excellent cycling stability over 500 cycles. This approach demonstrates a new concept for the construction of cathode architectures for practical Li–S batteries and can be extended to other battery systems.en© 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, WeinheimHigh energy density; high sulfur loading; lithium–sulfur batteriesJournal article10.1002/smtd.2018000672022-03-07602708Zhao, S. [0000-0002-6235-3704]