Lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs) are recognized as one of the second-generation electrochemical energy storage systems with the most potential due to their high theoretical specific capacity of the sulfur cathode (1675 mAhg⁻¹), abundant elemental sulfur energy storage, low price, and green friendliness. However, the shuttle effect of polysulfides results in the passivation of the lithium metal anode, resulting in a decrease in battery capacity, Coulombic efficiency, and cycle stability, which seriously restricts the commercialization of LSBs. Starting from the separator layer before the positive sulfur cathode and lithium metal anode, introducing a barrier layer for the shuttle of polysulfides is considered an extremely effective research strategy. These research strategies are effective in alleviating the shuttle of polysulfide ions, improving the utilization of active materials, enhancing the battery cycle stability, and prolonging the cycle life. This paper reviews the research progress of the separator functionalization in LSBs in recent years and the research trend of separator functionalization in the future is predicted.

There are many challenges for the Static lithium polysulfide semiliquid battery in its commercial application, such as poor stability of the cathode material and further amplification of the lithium polysulfide shuttle effect. Therefore, this manuscript introduced a new type of Pt₃Ni@C composite material as cathode working electrode based on the principle of volcanic catalytic curve. Through symmetric battery test, CV, polarization curves and impedance test, it was found that Pt₃Ni@C composite material had good catalytic activity of lithium polysulfide to improve electrochemical kinetics. When the catholyte was Li₂S₈ and the charge-discharge voltage range was 1.8~2.6 V, the capacity maintained at approximately 550 mAh g⁻¹, and the coulombic efficiency maintained at approximately 95% after 100 cycles at a current rate of 0.5 mA cm⁻². The Pt₃Ni@C composite material is a potential cathode material with the specific capacity and long cycling stability of the static lithium polysulfide semiliquid battery.