Advances and challenges in tuning the reversibility & cyclability of room temperature sodium–sulfur and potassium–sulfur batteries with catalytic materials

The high theoretical energy density of room temperature sodium-sulfur and potassium-sulfur batteries (Na–S; 1274 Wh/kg, K–S; 914 Wh/kg; based on the mass sulfur) due to multi-electron transfer associated with unique conversion chemistry S natural abundance Na, K, raw materials make them ideal candidates for large-scale storage applications beyond Li batteries. However, achieving good reversibility, cyclability, active material utilization in Na–S K–S demands alleviation complex polysulfide dissolution shuttle phenomena during cycling. Rational employment catalytic is beneficial address these issues by facilitating effective transformation thereby accelerating sluggish reaction kinetics. This review focuses roles evolution adsorption, conversion, redox mediation high-performing Specifically, advances tuning reversibility cyclability Na-S strategically material-incorporated S-host cathodes, separators, interlayers interaction various species are discussed light advanced characterization techniques. Lastly, challenges plausible strategies future research elucidated.