The invention relates to integrated electrode separators (IES), and their use in lithium ion batteries as replacements for free standing separators. The IES results from coating an electrode with a fluoropolymer aqueous-based emulsion or suspension, and drying the coating to produce a tough, porous separator layer on the electrodes. The aqueous fluoropolymer coating may optionally contain dispersed inorganic particles and other additives to improve electrode performance such as higher ionic conduction or higher temperature use. The IES provides several advantages, including a thinner, more uniform separator layer, and the elimination of a separate battery component (separator membrane) for a simpler and cost-saving manufacturing process. The aqueous separator coating can be used in combination with a solvent cast electrode as well as an aqueous cast electrode either in two separate process steps, or in a one-step process.