One-Dimensional Carbon-Based Host Materials

One-dimensional (1D) carbon-based hosts are widely used as a conductive matrix for lithium-sulfur batteries due to their high aspect ratio, specific surface area, excellent flexibility, superior conductivity, and the possibility to be easily functionalized/modified. In this chapter, the 1D nanostructured carbon-based host materials for lithium-sulfur batteries (LSBs) are introduced and the main requirements and functionalities are comprehensively discussed. The carbon-based hosts mainly include carbon nanotubes, carbon nanofibers, and their composites with polar compounds. The methods of synthesis and type of the precursor material, as well as the effect of the obtained carbon host on the electrochemical properties of the LSBs, are illustrated. Different strategies for polysulfide adsorption and their catalytic conversion, as well as the functions of various components in the composite matrix of 1D carbon-host, are summarized and compared. Finally, perspectives for future research are proposed.