The investigation focused on sulfur chemistry and application to the development of rechargeable batteries with energy density exceeding 250 W h/kg, a rate capability comparable to or exceeding water-based electrolyte systems, and operation at temperatures up to -60 degreesC. The study addressed sulfur electrochemical utilization limits, low-temperature performance process limits, and rate capability limits. (C) 2004 Published by Elsevier B.V.