Button batteries, also known as coin cells, are small power sources that are often found in numerous electronic devices which require a compact, efficient source of power. They’re named “button” batteries because of their small, round, and flat shape that resembles a button.
These batteries come in different types, the two main ones being alkaline and silver oxide:
- Alkaline button batteries: Wide range of sizes, relatively low initial cost but have a shorter life compared to other types. They also discharge more quickly when stored.
- Silver oxide batteries: Slightly more expensive, but they offer a longer lifespan and better stability for devices that need a continuous, stable energy supply.
Button batteries have different models, including but not limited to: LR44, SR44, CR3032, LR1130, SR1130 etc. These represent different chemistries, voltage levels and sizes.
Button batteries are incredibly widespread in their use due to their small size and efficiency. They’re often found in a diverse range of products both in consumer electronics and in industrial applications. Here are some typical applications:
- Watches: One of the most common uses of button batteries is in analog watches, which require a compact, long-lasting, and reliable source of power.
- Hearing Aids: In hearing aids, button batteries are widely utilized due to their small size, which fits the compact design of the devices.
- Electronic Car Keys: The transmitters inside electronic car keys are often powered by button batteries.
- Calculators: Smaller calculators often use button batteries because they require little power and operate for a long time on a single battery.
- Portable Medical Devices: Devices like glucose meters, digital thermometers, and certain types of heart-rate monitors may use button batteries.
- Games and Toys: Many handheld electronic games and small toys use button batteries.
- Computer Motherboards: Button batteries are used in computers to power the BIOS, which maintains system time and settings when the computer is powered off.
- Small LED Lights: Some small LED lights, such as those used in wearable tech, keychain lights, or seasonal decorations, are powered by button batteries.
- Remote Controls: Devices like remote controls for alarm systems or garages may use button batteries.
Caution is advised in households with small children and pets as they can be a choking hazard, and can cause health complications if swallowed because these batteries contain heavy metals like mercury, lead, zinc and others which are toxic in nature.
Button batteries provide a valuable service for powering various small electronic devices, but it’s crucial to take a few precautions when handling and using them:
- Choking Hazard: Due to their small size, button batteries pose significant dangers as choking hazards, especially for young children and pets. Always make sure to use and store these batteries in a place that’s out of reach of small children and pets.
- Risk from Ingestion or Insertion: Beyond being choking hazards, if button batteries (particularly lithium button batteries) are ingested or inserted into the body (such as in the ears or nose), they can cause serious injuries. Swallowed button batteries can cause chemical burns in as little as two hours, and even potentially be life-threatening. Seek immediate medical attention if you believe a battery has been swallowed or inserted into the body.
- Proper Installation: Always make sure to install the button batteries the correct way into your devices. Incorrect installation can potentially lead to short circuits, leakage or even rupture.
- Proper Replacement: Replace button batteries with the same or equivalent type to avoid any damage to the device. Mixing different types can lead to leakage or rupture.
- Avoid extreme temperatures: Do not expose the batteries to extreme heat or cold. These conditions can pote
Summarize
The small size of button batteries poses a risk to children and pets who might inadvertently consume them, thereby causing severe, even potentially fatal, health complications due to chemical leaks or burns. Therefore, it’s essential to keep all batteries, new or used, securely stored and out of reach.
Immediate medical intervention is crucial if ingestion is suspected. Avoid inducing vomiting or giving food or drink unless instructed by a healthcare professional, as it might worsen the condition. Follow medical advice closely and provide any information about the ingested battery’s type and size, if known.