Abstract: An apparatus and method for completely discharging a battery by use of a tab that initiates activation of a discharging circuit when the tab is pulled out of the battery case. The tab is operatively coupled with the actuator of a switch which in turn is coupled to a discharging circuit. The tab extends from the battery case and may be covered by a protective cover, or may also be attached to the protective cover. The tab is attached to an actuator of a switch and detaches from the actuator after actuation, thereby indicating actuation and preventing the switch from subsequently being moved. The switch completes the circuit, initiating the discharging process, when a movable contact engages a stationary contact and completes the discharge circuit.
Abstract: A lithium ion cell with a polymeric anode and cathode and a separator therebetween. The separator, such as of non-woven polymeric fibers is provided with its own discrete structure, without carrier substrate, and with structural integrity, apart from being laminated/compressed between the polymeric anode and cathode elements. Operable cells are made thinner despite the self supporting discrete structure, with obtained improved rate capacity and high temperature performance.
Abstract: Cells, especially solid state rechargeable lithium ion-containing cells having significantly improved cell shelf-life, cycle life and reduced impedance growth. A non-cathode active lithium compound containing one or more non-metallic elements, such as Li.sub.2 CO.sub.3 and Li.sub.2 B.sub.4 O.sub.7, substantially insoluble in the non-aqueous electrolyte of the cell, is dispersed throughout the cathode and is further dispersed within at least one of the anode and separator.
Abstract: A method for production of porous electrodes and separators in polymer type electrochemical cells and batteries wherein electrodes and separator elements are mixed with polymeric filler materials such as dibutyl phthalate (DBP). The polymeric filler material is then removed to provide the requisite porosity for the electrodes and separator. The polymeric filler material, normally removed by use of volatile solvents, is instead removed by extraction with supercritical fluids, such as CO.sub.2, which do not result in any hazardous residue or gases.
Abstract: Internal intercell and terminal cell electrical connector elements in an electrochemical battery are protected from corrosion and build-up of high internal resistance by coating the electrical connector elements with a layer of a protective preferably non-conductive viscous material such as silicone, prior to pressure contacting or welding of the electrical connector elements. The silicone is removed only at the point of contact between the connector elements while retaining a surrounding protective barrier against the corrosive effects of the cell components and particularly corrosive fluid organic electrolyte materials in high energy density cells.