Recessed tab for higher energy density and thinner batteries

Various embodiments are described herein for an electrode assembly for a battery and a method of making the electrode assembly. The electrode assembly comprises an active material layer having a recess formed therein at an outer surface of the active material layer, the recess extending from a side facet of the active material layer toward an interior portion of the active material layer; a current collector layer supported on and in electrical contact with the outer surface of the active material layer; and a tab element supported partially within the recess and in electrical contact with at least one of the active material layer and the current collector layer, the tab element being adapted to provide an electrical connection for the electrode assembly.