The high theoretical energy density (2600 Wh kg−1) of Lithium-sulfur batteries and the high theoretical capacity of elemental sulfur (1672 mAh g−1) attract significant research attention. However, the poor electrical conductivity of sulfur and the polysulfide shuttle effect are chronic problems resulting in low sulfur utilization and poor cycling stability. In this study, we address these problems by coating a polyethylene separator with a layer of activated carbon powder. A lithium-sulfur cell containing the activated carbon powder-coated separator exhibits an initial specific discharge capacity of 1400 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C, and retains 63% of the initial capacity after 100 cycles at 0.2 C, whereas the equivalent cell with a bare separator exhibits a 1200 mAh g−1 initial specific discharge capacity, and 50% capacity retention under the same conditions. The activated carbon powder-coated separator also enhances the rate capability. These results indicate that the microstructure of the activated carbon powder layer provides space for the sulfur redox reaction and facilitates fast electron transport. Concurrently, the activated carbon powder layer traps and reutilizes any polysulfides dissolved in the electrolyte. The approach presented here provides insights for overcoming the problems associated with lithium-sulfur batteries and promoting their practical use.

In this study, adsorption of polychlorinated biphenyls(PCBs) in transformer oil on powder activated carbon (PAC) and synthetic zeolite was evaluated. Adsorption characteristics of PCBs on the PAC and zeolite has been investigated in a batch system with respect to adsorbents amount and contact time. BET results showed 908 m2/g for PAC and 483 m2/g for zeolite. The adsorption capacity of PCBs increased with an increasing input amount of absorbent. The adsorption experimental results showed that PAC removed 90% of input PCBs in transformer oil while zeolite removed only 64%. Adsorption of PCBs to PAC and zeolite fit the Freundlich model well. The Freundlich parameter, Kf, for PAC and zeolite was 193.1 and 43.0 respectively, indicating that PAC is effect adsorbent for PCBs adsorption in transformer oil.