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• Q. How does a battery work?

  A. Batteries may seem simple, but the delivery of packaged power is a complicated electrochemical process. Electric current in the form of electrons begins to flow in the external circuit when the device-a light bulb for example-is turned on. At that time, the anode material, zinc, gives up two electrons per atom in a process called oxidation, leaving unstable zinc ions behind. After the electrons do their work powering the light bulb, they re-enter the cell at the cathode, where they combine with the active material, manganese dioxide, in a process called reduction.
  
  The combined processes of oxidation and reduction couldn't occur in a power cell without an internal way to carry electrons back to the anode, balancing the external flow of current. This process is accomplished by the movement of negatively charged hydroxide ions present in the water solution called the electrolyte. Every electron entering the cathode reacts with the manganese dioxide to form MnOO-. Then, MnOO- reacts with water from the electrolyte. In that reaction, the water splits, releasing hydroxide ions into the electrolyte and hydrogen ions that combine with MnOO- to form MnOOH.
  
  The internal circuit is completed when the hydroxide ions produced in this reaction at the cathode flow to the anode in the form of ionic current. There, they combine with unstable zinc ions, which were formed at the anode when the electrons were originally given up to the external circuit. This produces zinc oxide and water. This completes the circuit (which is necessary to have a constant flow of electricity) and powers your torch.
  

• Q. Why do batteries have different voltages and capacities?

  A. Different devices operate at different voltages and power levels. They all require batteries that provide the necessary power output at a minimum discharging voltage. The voltage of a given battery depends on the number of single cells connected in series and on their electrochemical system. For instance, a lithium-manganese-dioxide cell has a nominal voltage of 3 V, a rechargeable lead-acid cell offers 2 V, while an alkaline-manganese cell has an initial voltage of approx. 1.5 V.
  
  The capacity of a battery is calculated by the amount of active ingredients stored inside its housing. Rated capacity can be misleading because it doesn't provide a measure of a battery's ability to deliver energy. The actual delivered capacity is highly dependent on:
  

  • Drain rate (load)
  • Operating temperature
  • Cutoff voltage

  In order to properly operate a specific electrical device:
  

  • The battery's operating voltage must be matched to that of the device
  • The correct battery size must be selected in order to provide the desired operating time for the device
  • The battery must be able to deliver the power required
  • The battery's internal resistance must be smaller than that of the device

• Q. What is inside a battery?

  A. Batteries may be small, but they're far from simple. They're highly engineered electrochemical cells. Chemical energy is converted to electrical energy by means of redox reaction. This process takes place between the three major parts of a battery: The anode, cathode, and electrolyte. Different types of batteries use different materials for these parts. The materials for these parts are chosen depending on how well they give up or attract electrons, something that must happen for an electric current to be generated. The anode is often a metal, the cathode a metallic oxide, and the electrolyte a salt solution that facilitates the ion flow.

• Q. What is the anode, cathode and electrolyte?

  A. These are the basic components of a battery and like other alkaline batteries are: The anode is the negative electrode and is made of zinc. The cathode is the positive electrode and is made of manganese dioxide. The electrolyte is an aqueous solution that allows transport of ions between the electrodes and is made of potassium hydroxide.

• Q. Who invented the battery?

  A. In the 1860s, George Leclanche of France developed what would be the forerunner of the world's first widely used battery-the zinc carbon cell. The anode was a zinc- and mercury-alloyed rod (zinc, the anode in Volta's original cell, proved to be one of the best metals for the job). The cathode was a porous cup of crushed manganese dioxide and some carbon. Into the mix was inserted a carbon rod to act as the current collector. Both the anode and the cathode cup were plunged into a liquid solution of ammonium chloride, which acted as the electrolyte. The system was called a "wet cell."
  
  Though Leclanche's cell was rugged and inexpensive, it was eventually replaced by the improved "dry cell" in the 1880s. The anode became the zinc can containing the cell, and the electrolyte became a paste rather than a liquid-basically the zinc carbon cell that is known today.
  

• Q. Do all batteries last the same amount of time?

  A. No, different batteries provide different lengths of life and power output, depending on the type and amount of chemicals used to compose them. Think of it like cooking a meal: Using different ingredients and amounts make the meal taste different.

• Q. When should I remove batteries from my device?

  A. Batteries should be removed from devices/equipment when:
  

  • The device is not expected to be in use for several months
  • The batteries are worn out (to prevent possible damage from battery leakage)
  • The device is being powered by household (AC) current

• Q. Should I clean the battery compartment?

  A. For best performance, keep battery contact surfaces and battery compartment contacts clean by rubbing them with a clean pencil eraser or a clean cloth each time you replace batteries.

• Q. Can I recharge any battery?

  A. You can only recharge a battery if it's specifically marked "rechargeable."
  
  Recharging a non-rechargeable battery may cause it to rupture or leak and may cause personal injury.
  
  

• Q. Which battery type should I use in extreme temperatures?

  A. If equipment must be used periodically in extreme temperatures, premium alkaline batteries are recommended because they perform much better than zinc carbon batteries under such conditions.

• Q. Does it matter what type of battery I use in my device?

  A. Always replace the battery or batteries in your equipment with the size and type specified by the manufacturer.
  
  Alkaline batteries are often recommended for best performance because zinc carbon batteries have inferior life spans and equipment may not operate properly if zinc carbon batteries are used.
  
  

• Q. How can I get a better life out of my batteries?

  A. To help extend the life of your batteries:
  
  

  • Turn off battery-operated radios and appliances when they're not in use
  • Remove batteries from devices that won't be used for a while
  • Store your batteries in a dry place at normal room temperature without the contacts touching

  
  

• Q. Can I mix old and new batteries?

  A. Do not mix old and new batteries. Doing so will reduce overall performance and may cause battery leakage or rupture. We recommend replacing all batteries within a device.

• Q. Can I mix different battery types?

  A. No, different batteries are designed for different purposes. Mixing a lithium battery with an alkaline battery will not improve device performance. In fact, it will reduce performance and may even damage your device or cause battery leakage or rupture.
  
  As well, do not mix different battery brands within a device. Doing so will reduce overall performance and may also cause battery leakage or rupture. We recommend using the same type of batteries within a device.
  
  

• Q. Which way does the + and - go?

  A. Carefully follow instructions on your equipment regarding proper insertion of batteries, ensuring that the + (plus) and - (minus) terminals are aligned correctly.
  
  CAUTION: Some equipment using three or more batteries may appear to work properly even if one battery is inserted incorrectly; such usage may lead to battery leakage or rupture that could result in equipment damage.
  
  

• Q. Are batteries affected by temperature?

  A. We recommend storing batteries at room temperature in a dry environment. Extreme heat or cold reduces battery performance. You'll want to avoid putting battery-powered devices in very warm places. In addition, refrigeration is not necessary or recommended.

• Q. Should I store my batteries in the refrigerator or freezer?

  A. We recommend storing batteries at room temperature in a dry environment. Extreme heat or cold reduces battery performance. You'll want to avoid putting battery-powered devices in very warm places. In addition, refrigeration is not necessary or recommended.

• Q. Do I have to change all the batteries at the same time?

  A. We do recommend changing all batteries in a unit at the same time. A partially used battery will drain energy from a new one, reducing the total amount of battery power available.

• Q. A battery turned warm in my pocket. Is this normal?

  A. No, batteries should not become warm when not in use. We print a caution on our packaging warning consumers not to carry or store batteries loose in your pocket or purse. They can be shorted by contact with metal objects and leak or rupture and cause personal injury.

• Q. Can I light a battery on fire?

  A. NEVER light or dispose of batteries in a fire-they may explode, rupture, and cause safety risks.

• Q. How should I handle batteries that leaked in a device?

  A. Although most batteries contain chemicals that won't harm exposed skin, they should still be treated as any chemical would. Always take precautions when handling exposed battery chemicals. Battery chemicals shouldn't be placed near the eyes or ingested. Contact a physician immediately if this should occur.

• Q. Should I remove batteries from my device if I'm not going to be using it for a while?

  A. Yes. Remove batteries from a device when it is not expected to be in use for several months.

• Q. Can I take a battery apart?

  A. No. Do not dismantle batteries. When a battery is dismantled, contact with the components can be harmful and may cause personal injury or fire.

• Q. My child likes to play with batteries. Is this ok?

  A. Young children should not play with batteries. Batteries are made to power devices, not to be played with individually.
  
  Remember that while batteries are popular, commonplace devices, they generate portable power by means of potent chemical reactions. Batteries should never be disassembled, abused, mishandled, or treated as toys.
  
  Although most batteries contain chemicals that won't harm exposed skin, they should still be treated as any chemical would. Always take precautions when handling exposed battery chemicals. Battery chemicals shouldn't be placed near the eyes or ingested. Contact a physician immediately if this should occur.
  
  To assure safety, use of batteries by children should be closely monitored by a responsible adult.

• Q. My battery got wet and now there is a white powdery substance on it. What do I do?

  A. In the unlikely event that a battery is wet or covered with a white powdery substance, limit your handling of the battery to that required for proper removal and disposal and immediately wash any exposed body surfaces and clothing with soap and water.
  
  If contact with the eyes occurs, immediately flush the eyes with running water for at least 15 minutes and then seek immediate medical assistance.

• Q. There are Chinese letters on my batteries. What does it mean?

  A. The characters indicate that the batteries are mercury free.

• Q. Do you have any contests, offers or sweepstakes?

  A. All our promotions are live on this site, on our Promotions page. Check back often for updates.

• Q. Where can I buy Duracell products?

  A. Right here on Duracell.com. On every product's detail page you can find the e-retailers that carry the product.
  
  You should also be able to find many of our products in common stores around your town as well.

• Q. How should I dispose of batteries?

  A. All batteries should be recycled. Batteries should not be disposed of with household waste but taken to battery collection points for recycling. Refer to our Care and Disposal section to get more details on this topic.

• Q. Which is the best alkaline battery for performance in the portfolio?

  A. Duracell Ultra Power is the most powerful Duracell alkaline battery ever across all devices.

• Q. Does Duracell Ultra still have the POWERCHERCK facility on all cells?

  A. Yes, every Duracell Ultra Power battery has POWERCHECK, an integrated tester that all, batteries

• Q. Can alkaline batteries be recharged?

  A. Only batteries that are specifically labeled "rechargeable" should be recharged. Any attempt to recharge a non-rechargeable battery could result in rupture or leakage. We recommend that you use NiMH Duracell rechargeables. Paired with one of our different chargers, they can be recharged hundreds of times.

• Q. What is an alkaline battery?

  A. Duracell pioneered the Alkaline Manganese Dioxide electrochemical system nearly 40 years ago. In the 1960s, this battery system rapidly became the popular choice of designers in the ever-widening field of consumer electronics. Alkaline or Alkaline Manganese Dioxide cells have many advantages over zinc-carbon cells including up to ten times the ampere-hour capacity at high and continuous drain conditions.
  
  Also, its performance at low temperatures is superior to other conventional aqueous electrolyte primary cells. Other significant advantages are longer shelf life, better leakage resistance, and superior low-temperature performance. Its more effective, secure seal provides excellent resistance to leakage and corrosion. Today, Duracell manufactures two alkaline batteries: Ultra Advanced with POWERCHECK and CopperTop.

• Q. Why use a rechargeable Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery?

  A. Many of today's high-drain devices like digital cameras require replacing your batteries more often than you're used to-why not choose Duracell NiMH batteries? They can be recharged hundreds of times.
  
  The Duracell rechargeable AA battery is ideally suited for powering digital cameras and other devices that require a lot of power. Also available are AAA batteries, useful in small electronic devices such as MP3 players and handheld games. Duracell rechargeable NiMH batteries and chargers offer you the quality and dependability you've come to trust from Duracell, in a long-lasting, cost-effective power option.

• Q. What is the difference between lithium and alkaline?

  A. Lithium and alkaline batteries employ different chemistries for maximum performance in different devices. Light in weight and compact, lithium batteries often come in distinctive sizes for use in specific devices.

• Q. Is it normal for Duracell NiMH Rechargeable batteries to become warm while charging?

  A. Yes, it is normal for both the cells and charger to become warm while charging.

• Q. Can I charge other brands' rechargeable batteries in a Duracell charger?

  A. Yes, Duracell chargers will charge other NiMH AA or AAA batteries. However, Duracell cannot guarantee the quality, safety, or performance of other battery brands, so using Duracell rechargeable batteries is recommended.

• Q. Can Duracell StayCharged NiMH cells be charged in any NiMH battery charger?

  A. Yes, in any NiMH charger, but Duracell chargers are recommended because they are among the safest in the industry.

• Q. How long will Duracell StayCharge batteries stay charged?

  A. They will retain up to 75% of their capacity after one year in storage.

• Q. Can I charge competitive NiMH cells using a Duracell NiMH charger?

  A. Duracell chargers will charge competitive NiMH AA or AAA cells, yet as Duracell cannot guarantee the quality, safety or performance of competitive NiMH cells, we recommend charging only Duracell NiMH cells with your Duracell NiMH charger.

• Q. Can I charge non-NiMH cells (alkaline, zinc, heavy duty, NiCad, etc.) in my Duracell charger?

  A. No. You can only charge NiMH batteries in a Duracell charger.

• Q. Can Duracell NiMH Rechargeable cells be used in my device?

  A. Yes. As long as it is the right size, you can use Duracell NiMH cells in any device, however Duracell recommends consulting your device user manual for compatibility. NiMH cells are best suited to high-drain devices - in other words, devices such as digital cameras, which usually drain alkaline batteries very quickly.

• Q. Should Duracell NiMH cells be fully discharged before re-charging?

  A. Duracell NiMH cells do not suffer from the so-called memory effect and it is OK to charge them even when they are not fully discharged. It is NiCad formulated cells that are subject to a memory effect and Duracell does not offer NiCad cells.

• Q. Should I charge Duracell StayCharge NiMH cells before I use them?

  A. It is not necessary to charge Duracell Staycharge NiMH cells before use because they retain up to 75% of their capacity after one year in storage. However, it is necessary to charge Duracell Base NiMH cells before their initial use as they lose 1% to 2% of their capacity per day while in storage.

• Q. How many times can I charge my Duracell NiMH batteries?

  A. Duracell NiMH batteries can be re-charged hundreds of times they're great value!

• Q. What should I do if my Duracell charger does not seem to be charging?

  A. We suggest trying the following:
  a. Unplug the charger from the wall between each use
  b. Check that the batteries are positioned correctly in the correct slots
  c. Ensure you are attempting to charge Duracell NiMH rechargeable batteries

• Q. Why do chargers list a "range" of time when explaining their charge time?

  A. When a charger lists a range of charge time, it refers to the time it takes to charge a lower mAh cell. For example, an AAA cell will typically have a lower mAh capacity rating than an AA cell and will therefore require less time to charge.

• Q. Will I need a voltage converter for my Duracell charger when travelling overseas?

  A. A plug adaptor will be required, but not a voltage converter. (The voltage range on Duracell chargers is 100 - 240 volts, 50/60Hz).

• Q. Can I charge Base NiMH cells in my Duracell charger?

  A. Yes. All NiMH batteries can be charged in Duracell chargers. Recognize that higher mAh capacity cells require longer charge times to reach full capacity.

• Q. Do Duracell chargers shut off when charging is complete?

  A. Duracell chargers will switch to a trickle charge when the normal charge is complete. Duracell recommends you unplug your charger when it is not in use.

• Q. Is it safe to leave the cells in the charger overnight?

  A. Yes, due to Duracell's built-in safety features, it is safe to leave the cells in the charger overnight. Duracell does recommend that you un-plug the charger after use.

• Q. What is the difference between the 3 different types of rechargeable battery?

  A. Value range: Can be recharged more times than higher capacity batteries
  
  Performance range: Best for frequent use consumers who take a lot of photos once
  
  Endurance range: Once charged, power stays available for use, there's more life per charge, they're convenient, and pre-charged so ready for use immediately.

• Q. Which devices shouldn't you use rechargeable batteries in?

  A. You can use rechargeables in any device; however there are devices where you will have higher consumer satisfaction than others.

• Q. What about gadgets you don't often use? Will the battery drain itself if the gadgets are unused for a while?

  A. Standard rechargeable batteries do discharge overtime and are therefore not ideal for devices not used often or low-drain equipment. The new Duracell ActiveCharge, a low self discharge rechargeable holds up to 75% of its charge even after a year when not used, and overcomes this problem, thus can be used in low-drain devices or gadgets that are not often used.

• Q. Is there a safety concern about using rechargeables in some toys?

  A. There are no safety issues with rechargeable batteries in toys.

• Q. Is it OK to use rechargeable batteries in any device?

  A. You can use round cell rechargeable in absolutely any device where you would normally use an alkaline battery, unless stated otherwise by the device manufacturer. There are no interference implications using rechargeable battery brands that are different to the device brand. (Please note that this is referring to round cell rechargeables, the lithium different shaped batteries are often developed by the manufacturer specifically to fit a certain cavity size, and therefore only the brand battery might work).

• Q. How was the Duracell Bunny conceived?

  A. It began in 1973, when breakthrough advertising was developed to communicate that Duracell alkaline batteries lasted much longer than ordinary and inexpensive zinc carbon batteries. A small, pink, fluffy bunny was created who, powered by Duracell batteries, was able to outlast all others in an array of colourful challenges.

• Q. How has the Duracell Bunny changed over time?

  A. Throughout his successful career, the Duracell Bunny has embarked on numerous sports and cultural activities:
  
  

  • He excels on drums, which he has been practicing since 1973

  • With unparalleled endurance, the Bunny's a natural at skiing, kayaking, boxing, football and marathons; he always performs at the top.

• Q. How many ads has the Duracell Bunny starred in?

  A. The Duracell bunny has starred in many adverts including:
  
  1988 "Night & Day" (G)
  1988 "Disco Bunny" (NL)
  1989 "Skiing Bunnies" (F)
  1992 "Kayaking Bunnies" (F)
  1993 "Punch Bag Bunnies"
  1995 "Xtra Beats"
  1995 "Kayaking Bunny in Space"
  2006 "Mountain Bunny"
  2009 "Power Bunny"

• Q. What was the most successful advertising campaign?

  A. Soccer bunny, it's been running for over ten years. The bunny has won the World Cup three times and shows no sign of losing.

• Q. Is the Bunny available for sale?

  A. Unfortunately the Duracell Bunny is not available for sale.

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