Beyond Metal Compounds: The Exclusive Role of Metallic Nanoparticles in Lithium–Sulfur Batteries

The growing demand for clean and sustainable energy solutions has generated significant interest in advanced energy storage technologies, particularly lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries. With a theoretical specific capacity of 1675 mAh g −1 and an energy density of 2600 Wh kg −1 , Li–S batteries offer significant advantages over traditional lithium‐ion batteries, including low cost, environmental friendliness, and abundant sulfur resources. However, their practical application is hampered by issues such as poor sulfur conductivity, huge volume expansion during cycling, and the fundamental issue of polysulfide migration, leading to active material loss, reduced capacity, and lithium anode degradation. To address these issues, recent advancements have been focused on the development of nanostructured materials and the implementation of catalytic strategies to facilitate sulfur redox kinetics and stabilize battery performance. This review highlights the critical role of noble metals, magnetic metals, and other advanced nanoparticles as electrocatalysts in improving the electrochemical performance of Li–S batteries. Strategies such as nanoconfinement, chemical adsorption, and synergistic catalysis, as well as innovations in host materials and separators, are discussed in detail. By providing a comprehensive overview of these approaches, we clarify ways to overcome current challenges and unlock the full potential of Li–S batteries for next‐generation energy storage systems.