Novel sulfur/ethylenediamine-functionalized reduced graphene oxide composite as cathode material for high-performance lithium-sulfur batteries

Sulfur/ethylenediamine-functionalized reduced graphene oxide (S/EDA-RGO) nanocomposites were synthesized using a simple process. Ethylenediamine (EDA) was employed as both the reducing agent and the modification component. The morphologies, microstructures, and compositions of S/EDA-RGO composites were characterized by various detection techniques. The data indicated that EDA-RGO used as scaffolds for sulfur cathodes could enhance the electronic conductivity of the composites and strengthen the adsorbability of polysulfides. Meanwhile, the electrochemical properties of both S/EDA-RGO and S/RGO composites that were used as cathodes for lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries were investigated. The initial discharge capacity of S/EDA-RGO composites reached 1240 mAh g⁻¹, with reversible capacity being maintained at 714 mAh g⁻¹ after 100 cycles. The improvement in cycling stability of S/EDA-RGO composites was further verified at different current rates. These findings demonstrated that proper surface modification of RGO by EDA reducing agent might improve the electrochemical performances of Li–S batteries.