A nonaqueous electrochemical cell and a method for the construction thereof wherein the cell contains a metal salt additive such as lithium nitrate (LiNO.sub.3) or calcium nitrate Ca(NO.sub.3).sub.2 which reduces the reactivity of substantially the entire active cathode surface. Electrolyte solvents such as propylene carbonate are thereby substantially prevented from reacting, on the surface of the cathode, with oxidizing agents within the cell. Decomposition of the electrolyte solvent with gaseous evolution is substantially reduced and cell stability is enhanced. The metal salt additives are particularly useful in nonaqueous cells containing manganese dioxide cathodes.