Sodium-sulfur batteries

Rechargeable sodium-sulfur (Na-S) batteries are regarded as a promising alternative for lithium-ion batteries due to high energy density and low cost. Although high-temperature (HT) Na-S batteries with molten electrodes and a solid beta-alumina electrolyte have been commercially used for large-scale energy storage, their high working temperature (300-350°C) increases operating cost and causes safety concerns. In recent years, increasing research attention has been devoted to developing room temperature (RT) Na-S batteries with higher capacity, lower maintenance cost, and improved safety. Herein, the working principles and the advances in the battery components including cathode, anode, electrolyte, and cell configuration of RT Na-S batteries are summarized in this chapter.