Abstract: An electrode having a notch along one edge is provided. The notch prevents unintentional internal shorting between the electrode and internal cell structures having an opposing polarity. In a preferred embodiment, the electrode is used in jellyroll electrochemical cells to avoid contact between the most exterior electrode wrap of the jellyroll and the can. A method of making such an electrode from a continuous strip of electrode material is also provided.

Abstract: Methods are presented for reclaiming active material used in formation of secondary electrochemical cells and similar electrodes. Active materials such as nickel-metal hydride are removed from cell electrodes together with the binders used to secure the active materials to the electrode substrates. Because the binders and other agents are recovered without loss or degradation, the active materials may be easily and simply reconstituted and reused to form new electrodes. The methods are particularly applicable to electrodes fabricated by deposition of active material on flexible conductive substrates. The reclamation methods include mechanical separation, such as bending and ultrasonic beating, to remove the active materials without adding other chemical agents. The removed active materials are ground and sized. Solvent is added to dissolve binders and form a reconstituted active material paste.