Frequently Asked Questions

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: Optimum and Coppertop.
Which battery type should I use in extreme temperatures?
If equipment must be used periodically in extreme temperatures, premium alkaline batteries are
recommended. These types perform much better than zinc carbon batteries under such
conditions.
Which way does the + and – go?
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.
Who invented the battery?
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 Alessandro 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.
Why use a rechargeable Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery?
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.