Alkaline batteries are one of the most popular batteries on the market. They are the most common due to their great versatility, adapting to all types of sizes. In addition, they are notable from other types of traditional options. Because, although they have the same voltage (ability to generate energy so that the appliances work) and size as these, they last 4 to 9 times longer.
The advantage of using alkaline batteries over traditional options is that thanks to their longer life, we won’t have to replace them as often. Due to their composition, all spent batteries are extremely harmful to the environment. We have to be very careful how we dispose of them. The consumption of batteries in our day-to-day is irremediable. But, if we use more efficient options, we will be consuming fewer resources. And we run less risk of disposing of these materials incorrectly.
In this post, we will delve into this topic and will discuss the 6 things you should know about it.
How does an alkaline battery work?
These batteries generate energy in the form of electrical current when two electrodes immersed in an alkaline solution (hence their name) react together.
The key to this function is only done when we place them inside an object and press the power button. By pressing the “on” we activate a circuit through which the electrons flow, causing the battery to generate the current.
How? By following these basic steps during its manufacture:
– A nail creates to which a nickel-plated steel cap weld. This will be the negative pole.
– An anode creates made of zinc, a material that releases electrons easily.
– To prevent the two electrons in the cell from coming into contact, the small zinc tube blocks with a lamination paper.
– The positive pole creates with an electrode made of manganese dioxide that mixes with graphite.
– Steel tubes manufacture that are filled with the alkaline solution in the last phase.
– The rest of the pieces assemble and that’s it.
How to clean alkaline battery corrosion?
It has happened to all of us that we have ever found a device that we had forgotten at home. And when we checked if it had batteries, they were inside rusty. Although it may be unpleasant at first glance, there are times when battery-dirty devices still work.
If you want to clean the part of the rust that is forming by the dripping acid and try to get the appliance to work again. You need a series of elements, both to protect yourself and to carry out the cleaning.
The first thing you should do is prepare a space to clean this rust, and it is best to do it in an open place, not a closed room. Don’t underestimate the toxicity that has built up and how damaging it can be to you.
Wear gloves and protect your eyes. If you also have a mask, now is the time to use it. We clarify that it is unlikely that anything will happen to you, but prevention is essential to avoid any type of accident that may take you to the emergency room.
A toothbrush can be a very suitable tool to clean the stained area, although if it resists, a little sandpaper can also help. It is important not to use too much force and then throw away the brush or sandpaper that you have used.
After rubbing, you will see how the dirt will come off and the metal parts and springs of the device will be like new again. If after cleaning and drying it, it remains the same, we regret to tell you that you will have to assess the internal state of the device or go to technical service, although it is usual for them to work again after cleaning.
How to clean alkaline battery leaks?
For a leaked alkaline battery, dip a cotton swab in vinegar or lemon juice and wipe up the spill to neutralize the main leak. Use an old toothbrush soaked in the same material to rub it over an already dry spill.
What are alkaline batteries made of?
Usually, the alkaline D, C, AA, AAA, button-cell, or 9-volts batteries make of steel and a mix of potassium/manganese/graphite/ and zinc and other materials like plastic and paper. All of these materials are 100% recyclable.
How to recharge an alkaline battery?
There are batteries on the market that are specially designing for continuous recharging once they exhaust. The way they are recharged is through a charger, which can be similar to the one we can use for the mobile battery, either solar or even through a USB port that we connect to the computer. This charger connects to the current, which recharges the batteries and leaves the batteries ready for new use.
When using these batteries, we have to make sure that they are completely drain before recharging them, as well as not leaving them charging for longer than necessary. In this way, they will last as long as possible.
A rechargeable battery pack with its corresponding charger is more expensive than its equivalent in disposable batteries, but the investment ends up paying off fairly soon. An interesting option, although many consumers do not usually take it into account. However, even if it takes much longer, the time will come when they too will run out. When the time comes, always follow our recycling tips.
How to clean alkaline battery acid?
An important aspect is the one to find out if they are alkaline or acid batteries. In the case that they are acidic, it is best to use sodium bicarbonate dissolved in distilled water; in case they are alkaline, it will be enough to use some cotton soaked in lemon juice. And if they are stubborn leaks, you can use an old toothbrush dipped in lemon juice or vinegar.
Product Link : Super alkaline battery