Catalysis‐Driven Sulfur Conversion: From Electrolyte‐Flooded to Solid‐State Batteries

Abstract Lithium‐sulfur (Li–S) batteries are widely recognized as highly promising energy storage devices owing to their exceptional theoretical energy density. However, the prevalent use of flooded electrolytes in Li–S batteries significantly restricts their energy density. To enhance the energy density of Li–S batteries, transitioning from a flooded‐electrolyte to a lean‐electrolyte system proves to be effective. Additionally, replacing the organic liquid electrolyte with a solid‐state electrolyte addresses associated safety concerns. Concurrently, the practical application of Li–S batteries encounters numerous challenges, particularly the sluggish electrochemical conversion kinetics in lean‐electrolyte and solid‐state systems. Hence, it is imperative to develop suitable catalysts tailored for various Li–S battery configurations. This review comprehensively reviews the applications and development strategies of catalysts for Li–S batteries in diverse systems, with a specific focus on lean‐electrolyte and solid‐state systems. Additionally, the outlook explores the future development direction of catalysts, aiming to guide the rational design of catalysts and facilitate the realization of high‐energy‐density Li–S batteries.