Use of AA batteries
AA batteries are sizable and portable devices. They consist of electrochemical cells that are either disposable or rechargeable. Proper use of the dry cell battery is recommended. The type and size of the battery matter when one is choosing the kind to use. The batteries are used to generate power for home appliances. For example, radios, cassette players, toys, and flashlights.
The alkaline batteries also referred to as wet cell batteries contain electrolyte liquid that is used to power motorcycles, boats, motor automobiles. During compulsion chemicals electrolyte react with the heavy metals generate power. Ideally, the AA batteries have been designed using similar procedures like other batteries (Reddy, David & Thomas, 2001). The cathode and another are crucial in the completion of the power generation. The cathode is designed either in the laboratory or combined naturally with oxygen. Similarly, anode receives oxidation; it creates electric flow when it uses the oxygen atoms available.
The functionality of batteries differs based on the circumstances. For example, 1.5-volt alkaline cell function well when used with photographic equipment, calculator, tape recorders, toys and other equipment that use power under low temperatures. Further, AA batteries are chosen based on the usage. It has a capacity of about 400 to 900 milliamp hours. Lithium batteries are used to run devices that use a lot of power, for example, digital cameras.
Comments
AA dry cell batteries are referred as “general use” batteries
AA batteries last longer in power storage
The batteries are dependent on cut-off voltage or duty cycle.
Recycling/disposing
The composition of the AA batteries has chemicals that if not properly disposed they will harm the environment. It is recommended to either recycle or dispose of the batteries appropriately. The modern alkaline batteries are safe to be disposed with household trash. It was established that mercury was harmful to the environment manufactures have reduced mercury content in batteries to 0.25. Recycling the secondary batteries is possible. Further, a joint disposal center has been established in Canada and US.
Companies have established a mechanism that would aid in recycling none rechargeable batteries. It separates the battery from the metallic cases, zinc and manganese. Then a different company can use the metallic caps to make furnaces and low-grade steel, for example, zinc fumes and rebar. The process is recommendable since it is cost effective (Sangani, 2011, p.53). The concern is based on the need to have a safe environment. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have noted that manganese and zinc have no serious environmental consequence. Proper disposal should be followed because batteries that leak may corrode the surfaces or cause injuries to people. Specific pins have been designed to counter the effect of the reacting chemicals.
However, various countries are yet to establish an optimum method that could be used to dispose of used batteries. The establishment will ensure that the dry cells are used effectively.
Comments
Disposing of the batteries ensures safe environment
Recycling is cost effective especially with the secondary cells
Primary noncombustible wastes are mixed with household trash.
References
Reddy, David L. & Thomas B. (2001). Linden's handbook of batteries (3 ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.
Sangani, K. (2011). Battery recycling. Engineering & Technology, 6(12), 53-55. doi:10.1049/et.2011.1209
