Overview
- The Nature study details an anode-free Na–S cell using an S8 cathode, an aluminum-foil anode current collector, and a NaDCA chloroaluminate electrolyte to achieve 3.6 V output.
- Mechanistic analysis attributes the performance to the dicyanamide anion unlocking S0/S4+ sulfur chemistry and improving sodium plating and stripping reversibility.
- Reported lab metrics include 1,198 Wh/kg energy density, 715 mAh/g discharge capacity, and 23,773 W/kg power density, with a Bi‑COF cathode catalyst lifting energy density to 2,021 Wh/kg and capacity to 1,206 mAh/g.
- The authors estimate a cost of about $5.03 per kWh and note the electrolyte is non-flammable compared with common lithium battery liquids.
- Remaining hurdles include a corrosive AlCl3/SOCl2‑based electrolyte and only short-term air stability, so the team frames potential uses such as grid storage and wearables as contingent on further study.