abstract |
A primary electrochemical cell having an oxidizable anode, for example lithium, and an electrolytic solution including a reducible liquid cathode material, for example thionyl chloride. An additive material, for example polyvinyl chloride, in the form of a gel of polyvinyl chloride and the reducible liquid cathode material is dispersed throughout the electrolytic solution. When the temperature of the cell rises due to abnormal conditions, such as those present during a short circuit, the additive material dissolves in the solution limiting the current flow within the cell. |