A rechargeable battery includes an electrode assembly; a can housing the electrode assembly and having an open end, a bottom surface substantially opposite to the open end, a first planar surface and a second planar surface, wherein the first planar surface and the second planar surface each have a first fracture portion that facilitates buckling of the can under compression, wherein a first axis is defined extending from the bottom surface to the open end, and wherein the first fracture portion extends along a second axis in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first axis; and a cap plate sealing the open end of the can.