An electrochemical device comprising alternating layers of positive and
negative electrodes separated from each other by separator layers. The
electrode layers extend beyond the periphery of the separator layers
providing superior contact between the electrodes and battery terminals,
eliminating the need for welding the electrode to the terminal.
Electrical resistance within the battery is decreased and thermal
conductivity of the cell is increased allowing for superior heat removal
from the battery and increased efficiency. Increased internal pressure
within the battery can be alleviated without damaging or removing the
battery from service while keeping the contents of the battery sealed off
from the atmosphere by a pressure release system. Nonoperative cells
within a battery assembly can also be removed from service by shorting
the nonoperative cell thus decreasing battery life.