Abstract: Electrochemical cells comprising an anode, a cathode, a container, and a separator are disclosed. At least a portion of the separator is covered by an adhesive material that is bonded to the container or a sealing assembly. The adhesive material provides a mechanical bond between the separator and the container or sealing assembly, and acts to minimize or prevent physical and chemical transport from the anode to the cathode and vice versa. The adhesive material provides a means to utilize thin separators in an electrochemical cell without compromising the shelf life or reliability of the cell. The inhibition of the species migration with the electrochemical cell substantially minimizes or eliminates shorting within the cell or the degradation of shelf life of the cell by limiting the migration of soluble species that can foul one or both electrodes.