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Duracell pioneered the Alkaline
Manganese Dioxide electrochemical system nearly 40 years ago. In the
1960-1970 decade, this battery system rapidly became the popular choice
of designers in the ever-widening field of consumer electronics. The
zinc/potassium hydroxide/manganese dioxide cells, commonly called
alkaline or Alkaline Manganese Dioxide cells, have a higher energy
output than zinc-carbon (Leclanche) cells. Other significant advantages
include:
- longer shelf life
- better leakage resistance
- superior low temperature performance
In comparison to the zinc-carbon cell, the alkaline cell delivers
up to ten times the ampere-hour capacity at high and continuous drain
conditions, with its performance at low temperatures also being superior
to other conventional aqueous electrolyte primary cells. Its more
effective, secure seal provides excellent resistance to leakage and
corrosion.
The use of an alkaline electrolyte,
electrolytically prepared manganese dioxide, and a more reactive
zinc powder contribute to a higher initial cost than zinc-carbon
cells. However, due to the longer service life, the alkaline cell
is actually more cost-effective based upon cost-per-hour usage,
particularly with high drains and continuous discharge. The high-grade,
energy-rich materials composing the anode and cathode, in conjunction
with the more conductive alkaline electrolyte, produce more energy
than could be stored in standard zinc-carbon cell sizes.
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