NOVELTY - The composite thermal switch material comprises a homogeneous matrix of metallic nanoparticles and non-electrically conductive polymeric nanoparticles, which are fused to one another, and have a greater thermal expansion coefficient than the metallic nanoparticles. The metallic nanoparticles and the non-electrically conductive polymeric nanoparticles are present in homogeneous matrix in relative proportions such that the composite thermal switch material is electrically conductive below a switching temperature and is non-electrically conductive at or above the switching temperature.    USE - The composite thermal switch material is useful in a laminate structure and an electrode assembly for controlling short-circuiting in a lithium-ion battery (all claimed).    ADVANTAGE - The composite thermal switch material controls dangerous short-circuit current in the lithium-ion battery thus eliminating the overheating and rupture of the batteries, provides the enhanced shock and vibration resistances, improved cell internal resistance and long-term compatibility to the battery, and enhances the safety feature of the batteries at high temperature operating and storage conditions.    DETAILED DESCRIPTION - The composite thermal switch material comprises a homogeneous matrix of metallic nanoparticles and non-electrically conductive polymeric nanoparticles, which are fused to one another, and have a greater thermal expansion coefficient than the metallic nanoparticles. The metallic nanoparticles and the non-electrically conductive polymeric nanoparticles are present in homogeneous matrix in relative proportions such that the composite thermal switch material is electrically conductive below a switching temperature and is non-electrically conductive at or above the switching temperature. The metallic nanoparticles and the non-electrically conductive polymeric nanoparticles have a diameter of 0.020-0.20 micron. The metallic nanoparticles constitute 8-15 vol.% of the composite thermal switch material. The composite thermal switch material has a thickness of 25-250 microns. INDEPENDENT CLAIMS are included for:    (1) a laminate structure;    (2) an electrode assembly;    (3) a lithium-ion battery; and    (4) a method of preparing a composite thermal switch material.    DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING(S) - The diagram shows a schematic view of a lithium ion battery.    Battery (111)    Anode (113)    Cathode (115)    Separator (117)    Electrolyte. (119)