Polypyrrole functional interlayer is in-situ fabricated uniformly onto the surface of sulfur cathode to inhibit the dissolution of lithium polysulfides and protect sulfur cathode. Li-S battery with the functional inlayer shows an encouraging electrochemical performance. The initial discharge capacity is 719 mAh g(-1) and the capacity retains at 846 mAh g(-1) even after 200 cycles at 0.2C with an average coulombic efficiency of 94.2%. Moreover, the discharge capacities are 703 mAh g(-1) and 533 mAh g(-1) at 1C and 2C respectively even after 300 cycles. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.