Abstract: A manifold bi-cell assembly for electrochemical cells such as a polymer lithium ion battery is provided along with a method of manufacture thereof. The disclosed electrochemical cell includes an elongate planar separator or substrate formed of an elastic material. A plurality of discrete anodes with laterally offset leads is positioned in longitudinally spaced apart relationship to one another and positioned between a pair of substrates to create a sandwich assembly wherein adjacent anodes have a substrate interface therebetween. A plurality of cathodes with laterally offset leads corresponding in size, shape and number to the plurality of anodes is also positioned in longitudinal spaced apart relation on an opposed side of said substrate and overlying the anodes. The substrate is folded along its interfaces to create a manifold assembly wherein the anodes and cathodes are superimposed in a stacked configuration with the leads of the cathodes being offset from the leads of the anodes.

Abstract: The present invention relates to electrochemical cells, and more particularly to secondary lithium intercalation cells. Nickel is employed as a component "M" in an active cathode material represented by the formula Li.sub.x M.sub.y O.sub.z, where "x" and "y" are generally about 1, and "z" is generally about 2. In the present invention "M.sub.y " is divided into two components, a first major component of nickel, corresponding to at least 70% of "M.sub.y," and a second minor component comprising at least one of a non-transition metal selected from the group consisting of aluminum, gallium, tin, and zinc, and in some embodiments at least one transition metal selected from the group consisting of scandium and the Period 5 metals having atomic numbers between 39 and 42. A two-stage reaction process for making the compounds of the active cathode materials of the present invention is described.