Battery Types

There are many types of batteries and you probably have products in your home that use nearly all types. AAA batteries, AA batteries, D batteries, 9 volt and C batteries have given way to lithium-ion batteries, rechargeable batteries and micro-batteries for watches and small devices.

Camera, computer and cell phone batteries are specific to devices, but most devices allow you to use any brand and to use rechargeable batteries if you choose.   

Batteries are powered by and contain various types of chemicals, some more toxic than others. Some disposable batteries contain zinc-carbon or alkaline. Rechargeable batteries that use lithium-ion power are very popular today and last longer in devices that may be dormant for long periods of time.  

Even rechargeable batteries degrade over time. They can be recharged but will eventually lose the capacity to charge. Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries can be charged for approximately 1000 cycles. NiCd (nickel cadmium) batteries are rated at 1,000 cycles but when discarded will do more damage to the environment.

Primary cell batteries include aluminum and atomic batteries, chromic acid cells, silver oxide batteries, and lithium and mercury batteries. Rechargeable batteries include alkaline batteries, lead-acid batteries, carbon-zinc batteries, lithium-ion batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel hydrogen and nickel-zinc batteries.  

Wherever possible, it is wise to use rechargeable batteries. You will pay a little more for the batteries, but you will get significant use and power from these batteries and contribute less to landfills. If you can recycle your batteries, do so. Check your local recycling centers and find out what kind of batteries they take. Try to buy the type of batteries your local recycling center will accept so you don’t have to throw away your batteries. Batteries will eventually degrade and leak in landfills. The chemicals leak into the soil and into the ground water and can cause significant health and environmental issues.  

Be responsible in your use of batteries and take the time to learn which battery types and chemicals are best for the environment. Once you have taken this step it will become a habit to last a lifetime.