What is an Alkaline Battery?

Alkaline batteries are a common type of electrochemical battery that utilizes a carbon-zinc battery construction in which potassium hydroxide is used as the electrolyte. Alkaline batteries are commonly used in devices that require a stable power supply for a long period of time and are capable of operating in both high and low temperatures, such as controllers, radio transceivers, flashlights, etc.

1.Principle of operation of alkaline batteries

Alkaline battery is an ion-shortening dry cell battery which consists of a zinc anode, a manganese dioxide cathode and a potassium hydroxide electrolyte.

In an alkaline battery, the potassium hydroxide electrolyte reacts to produce hydroxide ions and potassium ions. When the battery is energized, a redox reaction occurs between the anode and cathode resulting in a charge transfer. In particular, when the Zn zinc matrix undergoes an oxidation reaction, it will release electrons which will then flow through the external circuit and reach the MnO2 cathode of the battery. There, these electrons will participate in a three-electron redox reaction between MnO2 and H2O in the release of oxygen.

2. Characteristics of Alkaline Batteries

Alkaline batteries have the following characteristics:

High energy density – can provide stable power for long periods of time

Long shelf life – can be stored for many years in a non-used state

High stability – can work in both high and low temperature environments.

Low self-discharge rate – no energy loss over time

Relatively safe – no leakage problems

3. Precautions for using alkaline batteries

When using alkaline batteries, be sure to observe the following points:

- Do not mix them with other types of batteries to avoid short circuit and leakage problems.

- Do not violently hit, crush or try to disassemble them or modify the batteries.

- Please keep the battery in a dry and cool place when storing.

- When the battery is used up, please replace it with a new one in time and do not dispose of the used battery.