Batteries FAQ - All Battery Types

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 a zinc (Zn) charge of unstable 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, and completes the circuit (which is necessary to have a constant flow of electricity) and powers your device.

Battery life can be measured in milliamp hour (mAh). This unit measures (electric) power over time.

The following tips may help extend the life of your batteries: 

• Turn off battery-operated radios and appliances whenever they’re not in use 
• Store your batteries in a dry place at normal room temperature without the contacts touching 

Always replace the battery or batteries in your equipment with the size and type specified by the device manufacturer. For standard size batteries (AAA, AA, C, D, 9V), alkaline batteries are often recommended for best performance. Zinc carbon batteries have inferior life spans and equipment may not operate properly if zinc carbon batteries are used. This is due to reduced mAh and charge of zinc carbon battery chemistry.

For high-drain professional devices, Procell recommends to use Procell Alkaline Intense batteries, designed with a unique power profile to last longer (vs. prior Procell Alkaline AA, AAA, C and D batteries) in high drain professional devices that require a high amount of power or peaks of power, such as blood Pressure monitors, soap dispensers or flashlights.

For low-drain professional devices, Procell recommends to use Procell Alkaline Constant batteries, designed to provide consistent performance over a long period of time and last longer (vs. prior Procell Alkaline AA, AAA, C and D batteries) in low drain devices such as smoke/carbon monoxide detectors, remote controls and flushometers.”

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.

No, Procell batteries are not designed to be used underwater or in vacuum conditions. Procell cell design enables operation in temperatures from:

-4°F to 129.2°F or -20°C to 54°C, with Lithium coin and High-Power Lithium batteries operating in temperatures from -4°F to 140°F or -20°C to 60°C.

• The batteries are worn out. This can be indicated by loss of power to the device or a lower physical reading on a voltmeter.
• The device is being powered by AC current rather than battery power

Carefully follow instructions on your equipment regarding proper insertion of batteries, ensuring that the + (plus) and – (minus) terminals are aligned correctly. These should be clearly marked on both the device and on the battery.

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.

Procell Alkaline Constant batteries can be used in all your devices – low, mid and high-drain, although Procell has engineered Procell Alkaline Intense range specifically designed to last longer (vs. prior Procell Alkaline AA, AAA, C and D batteries) in high drain professional devices that require a high amount of power or peaks of power, such as electronic door locks, soap dispensers or security cameras.

Procell Intense batteries can be used in low and mid-drain devices, although they have been specifically designed with a unique power profile to last longer (vs. prior Procell Alkaline AA, AAA, C and D batteries) for high drain professional devices that require a high amount of power or peaks of power, such as electronic door locks, soap dispensers or security cameras.