[General Q&A on batteries] Liquid and powder come out from batteries! Causes and remedies for liquid leaks

Have you ever removed the battery cover of a remote control or toy for the first time in a while and found that the battery was leaking liquid, had whitish powder, or was rusty?
Actually, it's a battery leak . Mainly, batteries that are in use often leak, but even unused batteries can leak if they are stored poorly. Why does it leak this time? Also, what can I do to prevent fluid leaks? I would like to explain it in detail!

Causes of battery leakage

A battery mainly consists of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and an electrolyte, and when this electrolyte leaks out for some reason, it is called a "leakage." The main causes of fluid leakage are as follows.

(if in use)
・Batteries were left in the device for a long time. ・The positive and negative terminals of the batteries were reversed. ・New and old batteries were used together.

(if unused)
・The storage location was in a bad environment. ・(Dry batteries only) Batteries were stored past their expiration date.

We tend to do things like leaving batteries in for long periods of time or using new and old batteries together, but surprisingly, these practices can lead to battery leakage.
Now, let's take a look at how you can prevent battery leakage!

What can I do to prevent fluid leaks?

To prevent battery leakage, pay attention to the following six points!

(1) Do not use new and old batteries in the same device. (2) Do not use batteries of different manufacturers and types (such as alkaline and manganese batteries) in the same device. (3) Remove batteries that will not be used for a long time from the device. (4) Check the batteries in use about once every few months to see if there are any abnormalities. (5) Store in a place away from high temperatures and humidity. (6) (Dry batteries only) Check the expiration date. Do not use old batteries

If you keep these six points in mind, you can prevent your batteries from accidentally leaking and damaging your batteries and the equipment you're using!

If the liquid leaks

Even if you are careful on a daily basis, there may be times when your battery leaks. Let's take a look at what to do if your battery leaks.
First, the leaking battery can no longer be used, so dispose of it. However, liquid leaking from batteries is very dangerous, so please dispose of it carefully by following the steps below.

(1) Wear rubber gloves and protective goggles before touching batteries.
(2) Wipe off the liquid and crystals (powder) with a tissue or rag.
(3) Apply tape to the positive and negative terminals to insulate them.
(4) Place the insulated battery in a plastic bag
(5) Dispose according to the instructions of your local government.

When disposing of items, be careful not to get liquid on your face, body, or clothes. If contact occurs, immediately rinse with plenty of water and seek medical advice.

In addition, if a battery leaks while in use, the liquid that leaked from the battery may adhere to the equipment being used, or the equipment may become rusted due to the liquid. Continued use is not recommended as this may cause malfunctions to the device.

If the battery you are using leaks, please read the instruction manual for the device you are using or contact the manufacturer directly to find out what to do.

summary

What did you think? This time, we introduced the causes of battery leakage and how to deal with it.
One thing you should know is that liquid leakage is a function of venting gas to prevent the battery from exploding , and it can also be said to be part of the safe structure to prevent explosions , so ``never allow liquid leakage.'' Another point that you should be aware of is that this is not possible .

By managing your battery on a daily basis, you can say goodbye to that unpleasant moment when you think, "Oh, it's leaking..." Let's use batteries correctly and live a more comfortable life!