Development of electrolytes for lithium-sulfur batteries with focus on electrochemical and electrolyte decomposition analyses

Batteries with higher capacities and longer lifespans are in great demand by the tech indunstry and the energy sector. Lithium - sulfur batteries offer freat poential to fulfill this demand, with a practical gravimetric capacity more than double than that of state- of- the -art lithium- ion batteries. The downside of the lithium- sulfur system is low stability over long cycling periods, with significant losses in capacity taking place. Additionally, electrolyte gassing and thickness fluctuations further damage the cell. This work explores the use of flurinated ether electrolytes as a mean to mitigate the downsides and prolong the cell´s life. Fluorinated ether electrolytes are designed to which lithium- sulfur cells are susceptible. Several electrolyte mixtures were prepared as part of this work using four different fluorinated ethers, while trying to keep the elctrolyte density to a minimum. Additionally, attempts were made to produce cathodes that will work well with fluorinated electrolytes.