The structure and electrochemical performance of Ni-Al-layered double hydroxides (LDHs) prepared by electrochemical impregnation (ECI) were studied. The ECI Ni-Al LDHs, having the same structure as that of alpha-3Ni(OH)(2).2H(2)O, have a tapping density of about 1.55-1.8 g cm(-3). This compound has larger discharge capacity and better cycle stability than beta-Ni(OH)(2). It also shows good electrochemical behavior at large discharge rate and low temperature such as 0 degreesC. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.