Abstract: A metal connection tab is joined to an electrochemical cell structure having a foam-type support. The support is formed with a porosity of greater than 90%. Thereafter the support is filled with active material. A connection tab is formed of expanded metal or of perforated metal foil having perforations occupying more than 40% of its surface area, and is formed to include two branches that are fixed to each other and that are disposed on opposite sides of the support previously filled with active material. The branches are compressed against opposite sides of the support such that the three-dimensional porous structure of the support and the connection tab are caused to interpenetrate and bind together.

Abstract: A process for making an electrode for an electrochemical cell includes loading a porous metal support with an active material, placing a porous metal electrical connector on the loaded support, and compressing the connector and the loaded support together such that the connector and support interpenetrate each other. The resulting electrode comprises a porous support which is loaded with active material and incorporates an electrical connector displaying a structure similar to that of the support. The three-dimensional structures of the porous materials of the support and of the connector have interpenetrated and bonded through compression.