A separator (16) for batteries that does not include a layer of membrane material is provided. The separator (16) includes two layers (16a, 16b) of materials that are disposed adjacent each other. The layers can be formed of the same or different materials. The materials can be woven or nonwoven. In certain embodiments, the layers are formed of the same nonwoven, non-membrane material which is a matrix of polyvinyl alcohol fibers, cellulose fibers and a polyvinyl alcohol binder.
