Alkaline (Zn-MnO2)
Battery Chemistries · 9 specs
Direct Answer
Alkaline (Zinc-Manganese Dioxide) is the worldwide standard primary (non-rechargeable) chemistry for consumer electronic cells (AA, AAA, C, D, 9V). Operating at 1.5V nominal, alkaline batteries utilize a potassium hydroxide (KOH) alkaline electrolyte, offering 100–140 Wh/kg energy density, a 5-to-10 year shelf life, and low environmental toxicity.
Source: IEC 60086-2 / ANSI C18.1M · Last reviewed Aug 28, 2026
Specs
| Nominal Cell Voltage | 1.50 V |
| Gravimetric Energy Density | 100 – 140 Wh/kg |
| Volumetric Energy Density | 250 – 350 Wh/L |
| Cycle Life (to 80% Capacity) | Single Use (Primary Non-Rechargeable) |
| Thermal Runaway Threshold | > 200 °C |
| Operating Temperature Range | -18 to +55 °C |
| Self-Discharge Rate | < 0.2% / Month (< 2% / Year) |
| Primary Anode Material | Zinc Powder (Zn) in Gel suspension |
| Primary Cathode Material | Manganese Dioxide (MnO2) with Graphite conductive matrix |
Chemical Architecture & Shelf-Life
Compared to older carbon-zinc (Leclanché) cells, alkaline batteries have higher energy capacity and better resistance to leakage because the zinc anode is dispersed as a powder in the core rather than serving as the outer container can. The alkaline potassium hydroxide electrolyte enables efficient discharge down to 0.8V per cell.