Basic knowledge of batteries: Two mainstream disposable batteries--alkaline and carbon zinc1.0

ALKALINE BATTERIES: HIGH-PERFORMANCE CHOICE

Core features

• Electrolyte: Potassium hydroxide (alkaline)

• Voltage output: Relatively stable (about 1.5V)

• Capacity: The AA type is usually 1800-3000 mah

• Working temperature: It has a wide range of adaptability and good low-temperature performance

• Shelf life: 5-7 years

• Advantages

• High energy density, providing more electrical energy under the same size

• It has a strong ability to discharge large currents

• Long shelf life and low self-discharge rate

• It maintains good performance in low-temperature environments

  
  

Carbon-zinc battery: An economical option

Core features

• Electrolyte: Ammonium chloride or zinc chloride (acidic)

• Voltage output: Gradually decreases with use

• Capacity: AA type is usually 500-1000 mah

• Operating temperature: Suitable for room temperature environment

• Shelf life: 3-5 years

Advantages

• The price is affordable and the initial procurement cost is low

• Meet the basic low-power consumption requirements

• The technology is mature and the supply is stable

  
  

Performance Comparison and Key Points of Procurement Decision-making

Comparison of technical parameters

Characteristics	Alkaline battery	carbon-zinc battery
Energy density	High (100-150 Wh/kg)	low (30-50 Wh/kg)
Nominal voltage	1.5V	1.5V
Discharge curve	Relatively gentle, voltage stable	It gradually decreases and the voltage is unstable
Typical capacities of AA batteries	1800-3000mAh	500-1000mAh
High current discharge capacity	Excellent	Poor

Application scenario decision tree

Choose alkaline batteries when:

• Medium to high power consumption of devices (digital cameras, toys, flashlights)

• The ambient temperature for use is variable or relatively low

• The equipment requires stable voltage support

• Long-term storage or emergency use requirements

• Customer experience and product reputation take priority

When choosing carbon-zinc batteries:

• The power consumption of the equipment is extremely low (remote control, clock)

• It is used in a stable indoor temperature environment

• Short-term or one-time use scenarios

• A market with extremely sensitive prices

• Intermittent use of equipment

Economic Analysis: Not just the unit price

• Total Cost of ownership (TCO) should take into account

• Procurement cost: Unit price of batteries

• Replacement cost: Labor and logistics costs related to the frequency of replacement

• Equipment protection cost: Inferior batteries may cause damage to the equipment

• Customer satisfaction costs: returns, complaints, and impact on brand reputation

• Inventory costs: shelf life, storage condition requirements

Summary

      For low-power devices such as remote controls, although carbon-zinc batteries have a lower unit price, considering the replacement frequency and user experience, the overall cost of alkaline batteries may be lower.