Abstract: An electrode assembly 1 for use in a soft packaged cell such as a battery or supercapacitor comprises a stack 2 of single, discrete cathode elements 4 and single, discrete anode elements 3 alternating with and abutting one another, wherein all the elements of one type are each individually encapsulated in discrete separator envelopes 7 and all the elements of the other type are uncovered, and wherein the electrode assembly 1 is sealed in soft packaging. Sensitive or delicate cathodes or anodes 13, for example, lithium anodes used in primary batteries, may be encapsulated to protect them, and this may facilitate assembly by automated handling equipment.