Home >> Toys >> Other Toys

How to Clean an Overcharged Alkaline Battery Leak

Batteries are not a new invention. The website All About Batteries reports that in 1936, a battery was found dating back to the Parthian Empire. Testing replicas of this ancient battery revealed that it was capable of generating up to two volts. By the 1800s, battery development began to be more successful, but it wasn't until 1949 that the alkaline battery, so ubiquitous today, was developed. When using an alkaline battery, there is a risk that when it's overcharged, it may leak. Fortunately, this is something that you can clean safely.

Things You'll Need

Sodium bicarbonate
Water
Bowl
Lemon juice
Vinegar
Sandpaper
Cotton swabs
Plastic bag

Instructions

- 1
  Mix together sodium bicarbonate and water in a bowl. Pour it over the battery to neutralize the potassium hydroxide. If potassium hydroxide leaked inside the powered item, such as a flashlight, pour the water-sodium bicarbonate mixture into it as well. Add drops of lemon juice into the water and sodium bicarbonate mixture, as this can help clean the battery leakage. Vinegar also works well.
- 2
  Clean the contacts of the battery with sandpaper. This will help remove any traces of the battery leakage. For hard-to-reach places, use cotton swabs.
- 3
  Allow the battery to dry thoroughly before disposing of it. Put the battery in a plastic bag. Contact your local trash collection department regarding proper disposal.
- 4
  Allow the device in which the battery was used to dry before using it again. You can also spray the contacts and the interior of the device itself with a cleanser that prevents oxidation.

Other Toys