Cycle characteristics of conductive sulfur-containing materials (CSMs) synthesized by heating the mixture of polyacrylonitrile and elemental sulfur at a wider temperature region from 250 to 800 degrees C are presented. The cyclability is improved remarkably for CSMs obtained above 400 degrees C. A stable capacity of CSM prepared at 450 degrees C maintains about 470 mAh g(-1) and the capacity retention remains ca. 90% after near 380 cycles. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman characterizations disclose that the fundamental chemical structure of CSMs is composed of dehydropyridine type matrix. with S-S bond in side-chain. Such unique structure and better electrical conductivity ensure the excellent cycle performance of the prepared CSMs. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.