A lithium battery comprises a negative electrode composition that uses
lithium hydride and a second metal. The negative electrode composition is
activated by infusing lithium into particles of the second metal hydride
to form lithium hydride and the second metal. As the battery is
discharged lithium is released from the electrode and the second metal
hydride formed. Charging of the battery re-infuses lithium into the
negative electrode composition with the re-formation of lithium hydride.