Hydrophylized separator material

Hydrophilized separator material of synthetic fibers and/or filaments is impregnated with 0.01-10 g/m2 alkali hydroxide and/or carbonate before use. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) production of the hydrophilized separator material from synthetic fibers and/or filaments by impregnation with an aqueous solution of alkali hydroxide and/or carbonate and then drying; and (2) alkaline batteries or cells containing the hydrophilized separator material.