JohnK

I've read a lot of posts here about batteries leaking and advice on cleaning them up. When someone asks about this, they do not always mention what type of battery has leaked! Carbon zincs leak an acid, and cleaning or neutralizing requires an alkaline substance like baking soda. Alkaline batteries leak potassium hydroxide, which requires an acid to neutralize, such as vinegar, which is about 5% acetic acid, i.e., weak. I've seen mention of using acetone or rubbing alcohol, which I do not understand at all, and acetone will do real damage to lots of plastics. Giving advice on general terms without knowing what type of battery is dangerous. Here is a good link, and there are probably many more -

http://cleaning.lovetoknow.com/How_to_Clean_Leaking_AA_Batteries

Jim Bob

Great post and information. Thanks.

mas24 Loc: Southern CA

Thanks for sharing this article. I know of no one today using carbon zinc batteries. They are the cheapest and absolute worst of all. And some cheap alkaline batteries can leak inside the packaging in 6 months.

JohnK

I mentioned carbon zinc for reference and the baking soda thing. I don't know if they are made anymore. The article has good advice on lithium ion batteries too. Should have mentioned if you rinse with water if should be distilled. Thanks for the replies.

JohnK

I used to say that I have never had a Duracell battery leak but I can't say that anymore. Have had lots of Panasonics leak.

nicksr1125 Loc: Mesa, AZ

Any alkaline battery will leak given the right circumstances. I work for Batteries Plus here in Columbus and we see more devices with leaking Duracell batteries than any other brand. We sell a lot of Rayovac and seldom see a device with a leaker. I've switched to Energizer Lithium AA's for my flash unit. They're absolutely the tops as far as long lasting & not leaking.

boberic Loc: Quiet Corner, Connecticut. Ex long Islander

Leaking Lithium batterys can be a serious problem in that lithium is explosive in air. Depending on the chemical compound ofthe lithium in the battery it may not be so dangerous. Even so NEVER expose any lithium battery to heat as it will explode. Lithium iodide batteries are used in medical implantables. If a patient with a pacemaker or implantable defibrillator dies, the device must be removed if the person is to be cremated because the device will explode and damage the cremetorium,