Extended Data Fig. 3: Inspiration and guidance of analytical noncovalent electrochemistry for battery engineering.

(a) Coenzyme Mechanism: Schematic diagram illustrating the mechanism of coenzymes. Coenzymes play a vital role in enzyme catalysis by engaging in specific chemical reactions as transient carriers of functional groups or electrons, promoting efficient catalytic processes. (b) Noncovalent Regulation Mechanism: Schematic representation of the noncovalent regulation mechanism. In this mechanism, the guest (E6) acts as a cocatalyst, activating C⁴⁺ via noncovalent interactions. The resulting complex serves as a synergistic catalyst within operational batteries, akin to the coenzyme mechanism. (c) Schematic representation illustrating the mechanism of noncovalent regulation involving E6 as a cocatalyst for the activation of C⁴⁺. E6 displays specific and selective interaction with C⁴⁺ via noncovalent binding interactions. This interaction leads to a controlled reduction in the redox potential of C⁴⁺, aligning with the fundamental principles of analytical noncovalent electrochemistry. Consequently, this strategic manipulation of C⁴⁺ redox potential orchestrates its precise positioning within an optimized range. This optimized redox potential configuration is instrumental in showcasing exceptional catalytic efficacy in polysulfide oxidation process.