Medtronic, Inc.

William D Helgeson

Craig L Schmidt

Bernard Frank Heller, Jr

John C Strohkirch

Bernard F Heller

David L Blattenberger

Daniel D Michels

Lloyd J Underhill

A method for making a primary cell comprising a lithium anode and an iodine containing cathode. The cell is first subjected to a preliminary conditioning at a predetermined time/temperature to effect a reduction in the impedance of the cell followed by cell discharge of at least 2 mAh per cm.sup.2 of the lithium anode surface prior to use or extended storage of the cell. The resulting primary cell has reduced variation in cell voltage and resistance and slower and more consistent self-discharge characteristics.

Method for making an electrochemical cell

In lithium iodine electrochemical cells, control of polyvinylpyridine film thickness and/or polyvinylpyridine film surface area coverage and/or control of the quantity thereof on or with respect to the lithium anode operative surface directly affects cell voltage characteristics during discharge, allowing the tailoring of the voltage characteristics near cell end-of-life (EOL) in a useful way.

Lithium-iodine electrochemical cells with improved end of life

Method of preparing lithium anodes contacted with organic materials prior to association of the anode with a cathode material wherein the contacted anode is first subjected to a heat treatment. Upon incorporation of the improved anode into an electrochemical battery or cell and association of the heat treated anode with a suitable cathode material, the cell may be discharged under controlled conditions for a short time prior to its usual 'burn-in' discharge.

Method for lithium anode and electrochemical cell fabrication

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Minneapolis, MN, United States of America

William D Helgeson