How to Clean an Alkaline Battery
Alkaline batteries are made up of manganese dioxide, zinc, potassium hydroxide and graphite. Alkaline batteries may need to be cleaned for two primary reasons. First, they may need to be cleaned if something was spilled on them. If this happens, remove the batteries from the electronic device as quickly as possible and begin the cleaning process. Second, if alkaline batteries are not used for long periods of time, or if they become damaged, they may leak. The leak presents itself as a white powder. The white power may be visible on or around the battery as well as the battery housing unit that the battery is stored in. Cleaning the battery and anything the battery may have leaked on is a simple process. Once the battery begins leaking it is damaged and should not be used. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
-
General Alkaline Battery Cleaning
-
1
Remove the alkaline battery from the device in which it is being used.
-
2
Combine equal parts of vinegar and warm water in a bowl.
-
-
3
Dip a soft cloth in the solution. Squeeze the cloth to remove excess moisture. The cloth should be damp, not dripping wet.
-
4
Gently wipe the battery to remove dirt, dust, grime, buildup or liquids that may have been spilled on it.
-
5
Allow the battery to air dry before attempting to use it again.
Cleaning a Leaking Alkaline Battery
-
6
Place protective gloves over your hands.
-
7
Combine equal parts of vinegar and warm water in a bowl.
-
8
Remove the alkaline battery from the battery housing unit it's stored in. If the battery is stuck, dip a cotton swab in the vinegar mixture and rub it around the battery. Allow the vinegar to eat at the corrosion for a few minutes before attempting to lift it out again. Continue this process until the battery can be removed.
-
9
Place the battery in a plastic bag until it can be properly disposed of. This will prevent it from leaking anywhere else.
-
10
Use a cotton swab dipped in the vinegar mixture to remove the battery leakage from the battery housing unit of the product it was stored in, or anything else that may have come in contact with the leaking battery.
-
1
References
- Photo Credit nine volts alkaline battery on table image by JoLin from Fotolia.com
