# A Review of Lithium-Sulfur Batteries Based on Metal-Organic Frameworks: Progress and Prospects
###### Abstract  
Lithium-sulfur batteries (LSBs) are considered candidates for next-generation energy storage systems due to their high theoretical energy density and low cost. However, their practical applications are constrained by the shuttle effect, lithium dendrites, low conductivity, and volume expansion of sulfur. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as promising materials for addressing these challenges, owing to their exceptional adsorption and catalysis capabilities, coupled with a readily adjustable form-factor design. This review provides a broader perspective by comprehensively examining the applications of MOFs in LSBs, covering their roles in cathodes, separators, and electrolytes from multiple dimensions, including their reaction mechanisms, the development potential of MOFs as cathode materials, and the positive impacts on LSBs' performance achieved through the preparation of MOFs and modifications of intermediate, separator, and electrolyte. Finally, we provide perspectives on future development directions in this field.  
metal-organic frameworks; lithium-sulfur batteries; cathode; separator; electrolyte +
Footnote †: journal: _ batteries  
000020738990  
In the field of investigating novel materials for electrochemical applications, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as a focal area of extensive research and study [9; 10; 11]. The pore structure of MOFs can be tailored by choosing various metal ions and organic ligands. In addition, the unique composition of MOFs endows them with characteristics of both inorganic and organic materials, making them highly promising for advancement in contemporary materials research [12; 13]. The highly adjustable pore structure and extremely high specific surface area (SSA) of MOFs make them promising candidates for development in electrochemical studies [14]. It is well established that MOF materials and their derivatives can provide stable pathways for the transport of electrons and lithium ions. They are also effective in mitigating the polysulfide shuttle effect through strong chemical adsorption [15]. Furthermore, their porous structure exhibits robust adsorption capabilities towards lithium polysulfides (LiPSs), thereby effectively mitigating the dissolution of elemental sulfur and polysulfides within organic electrolytes. The one-step carbonization of MOFs offers the advantage of yielding a porous carbon framework and the spontaneous formation of metal nanoparticles, as opposed to the conventional two-step synthesis involving the combination of a metal precursor and carbon source. The utilization of MOFs in electrochemical applications in recent years represents a nascent and rapidly advancing domain [16; 17].  
At the current stage, there is limited discussion on metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) within the field of lithium-sulfur batteries (LSBs), particularly in regards to their application as cathode materials or separator. This review delves into the reaction mechanisms of lithium-sulfur batteries and explores the potential for their development, highlighting their advantages in terms of energy density, cost-effectiveness, and environmental compatibility. We discuss the preparation methods of MOF materials and the favorable properties that render them suitable for LSB applications. Furthermore, composites consisting of MOFs with graphene, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and polymers are presented. These composites leverage the combined advantages of MOFs and other materials to further enhance the electrochemical performance of LSBs. Additionally, we present other strategies for improving LSB performance using MOFs, including modifications to the separator and electrolyte with MOF materials. These modification strategies are aimed at mitigating the shuttle effect of polysulfides and improving the cycling stability and safety of the batteries. Our hope is that this contribution will pave the way for future research in the area of MOFs in LSBs.