Abstract: Some embodiments disclosed herein are directed to connectors for thin-film functional separators in battery cells. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, a thin-film functional separator for a battery cell is provided. The thin-film functional separator may be disposed within the battery cell, such as between a cathode and anode of the battery cell. The thin-film functional separator includes a porous composite membrane that includes a microporous substrate and a coating layer, and includes a lead extending from the porous composite membrane. The lead extending from the porous composite membrane is coupled to an external conductive tab using a mechanical connector that electrically couples the external conductive tab to the lead extending from the porous composite membrane. Other embodiments may be disclosed or claimed.

Abstract: A battery includes multiple stacked cells. Each cell includes an anode layer and a cathode layer separated by a permeable separator. At least one temperature probe structure is disposed on the permeable separator between the anode layer and the cathode layer of a first cell of the stacked cells. The temperature probe structure includes at least a first material partially coating the permeable separator and a second material partially coating the permeable separator. The first material overlaps with the second material at an overlap region. A first sensor output terminal is connected to the first material and a second sensor terminal is connected to the second material. A voltage differential between the first sensor output terminal and the second sensor output terminal corresponds to an average temperature of the overlap region.

Abstract: Presented are electrochemical devices with in-stack reference electrodes, methods for making/using such devices, and battery cells with stacked electrodes segregated by electrode separator assemblies having built-in reference electrodes. An electrochemical device includes a protective outer housing that contains an ion-conducting electrolyte. A stack of working electrodes is packaged inside the device housing in electrochemical contact with the electrolyte. At least one electrode separator assembly is located inside the housing, interposed between a neighboring pair of these working electrodes. The electrode separator assembly includes an electrically insulating separator sheet with a reference electrode. A tab pocket, which projects from an end of the separator sheet, includes a tab chamber with a chamber opening. An electrode tab is formed with an electrically conductive material and attached to the tab pocket.