Primary batteries are widely used for their low cost, high energy density, and convenience. Unlike rechargeable batteries, they cannot be recharged, making them disposable after use.
For low-power applications, such as sensors or microcontroller projects that spend most of their time in low-power states, primary batteries are often a better choice. These devices can run for months or even years on a single battery. In such cases, the cost, complexity, and energy overhead of incorporating rechargeable batteries and chargers may not be justified.
Form Factors
Primary batteries are available in various standardized shapes and sizes to suit a wide range of devices.
| Form Factor | Description | Typical Uses |
|---|---|---|
| AA (LR6) | Cylindrical, 50mm x 14mm | Remote controls, toys, clocks |
| AAA (LR03) | Smaller cylindrical, 44mm x 10.5mm | Compact devices like remotes, LED lights |
| C (LR14) | Cylindrical, 50mm x 26mm | Flashlights, larger toys |
| D (LR20) | Cylindrical, 61mm x 34mm | High-power devices like lanterns |
| 9V (PP3) | Rectangular, six 1.5V cells in series | Smoke detectors, walkie-talkies |
| Coin Cells | Flat, small round batteries (e.g., CR2032) | Watches, key fobs, calculators |
Chemistries
Primary batteries differ in their chemical composition, which affects their voltage, energy density, shelf life, and environmental impact.
| Chemistry | Voltage | Energy Density | Shelf Life | Environmental Impact | Typical Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alkaline | 1.5V | Moderate | 5-10 years | Low, but not reusable | Everyday electronics (e.g., remotes, clocks) |
| Zinc-Carbon | 1.5V | Low | 2-3 years | Low, inexpensive | Low-drain devices (e.g., radios) |
| Lithium (LiMnO₂) | 3V | High | 10+ years | Low toxicity, recyclable | Cameras, medical devices |
| Silver Oxide | 1.55V | High | 5-10 years | Low, but limited availability | Watches, hearing aids |
| Mercury Oxide | 1.35V | Moderate | Long | High toxicity, discontinued in most regions | Specialty devices (now obsolete) |
Key Comparisons
| Feature | Alkaline | Zinc-Carbon | Lithium (non-rechargeable) | Silver Oxide | Mercury Oxide |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 1.5V | 1.5V | 3V | 1.55V | 1.35V |
| Energy Density | Moderate | Low | High | High | Moderate |
| Cost | Moderate | Low | High | High | High |
| Shelf Life | 5-10 years | 2-3 years | 10+ years | 5-10 years | Long (but obsolete) |
| Best For | Everyday devices | Low-drain devices | High-drain or long-life devices | Precision instruments | Specialty (now rare) |
Cost Comparison:
- Alkaline: Moderate cost, widely available.
- Zinc-Carbon: Very low cost, but lower performance and shorter lifespan.
- Lithium: High cost but offers the longest shelf life and high energy density, ideal for high-drain and long-life applications.
As a practical comparison, an average AAA Alkaline battery has a capacity around 700mAh whereas an AAA Lithium battery (non-rechargeable) is around 1200mAh - at around 5x the cost. Lithium-based primary batteries can still be worth the money. The raw mAh value is just one aspect. A test with a wireless temperature sensor showed that alkaline AAA batteries had to be replaced once a month whereas lithium-based batteries lastet almost three months.
Final Notes
Primary batteries are an excellent option for applications requiring simplicity, long storage life, or infrequent use.
Choosing the right chemistry and form factor ensures optimal performance and cost-effectiveness. While their non-rechargeable nature limits reusability, many primary batteries are recyclable, helping to reduce environmental impact.
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(content created Dec 08, 2024)