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Sodium-Sulfur Batteries explained

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This project aims to develop room-temperature sodium-sulfur batteries for renewable energy storage. Sodium-sulfur batteries are ideal for large-scale energy storage, owing to high energy density and low cost. However, there are significant challenges in attaining practical sodium-sulfur batteries with high capacity and safety. By developing novel high capacity sulphur cathodes, dendrite-free sodium metal anodes and quasi-solid-state gel polymer electrolytes.  

This project expects to achieve high-performance sodium-sulfur batteries with high capacity, long cycle life and enhanced safety. Expected benefits will arise from deployment of sodium-sulfur batteries and advances in energy storage technologies that are efficient and cost-effective. 

To be successful in this project, the outcomes should demonstrate:  

  • Synthesise high-capacity sulfur composite cathode materials with optimised chemical composition and rationally designed architecture. 
  • Design dendrite-free Na metal anodes with high Coulombic efficiency and long cycle life. 
  • Develop quasi-solid-state electrolytes that are compatible with both the sulfur cathode and Na metal anodes. 

Learning opportunities

  • Project management 
  • Working prototype 
  • Team Collaboration 
  • Research 

Applicable knowledge

4th year students with knowledge in lab experimental, literature research and skills to use SEM and XRD (training will be provided). 

How many places are available?

There are two (2) student positions available.

Why is this important?

This project is expected to deliver a new type of rechargeable battery that can store energy at the scale needed for Australia’s electricity grid. This project will solve a safety problem in room-temperature sodium-sulfur batteries by replacing a flammable electrolyte with quasi solid-state gel polymer electrolytes. There is an opportunity where Prototype room-temperature Na-S batteries will be manufactured. 

Project leaders

  • profile photo of Guoxiu Wang
    Prof Guoxiu Wang
    Distinguished Professor School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
Acknowledgement of Country

UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.