| Resumo: | The aim of this work is identification of the structural components of actual domestic spent alkaline AA batteries, as well asquantification of some of their characteristics. Weight, humidity, ash content, zinc and zinc oxide on anode, manganese on cathodeand other metals, potassium hydroxide on the internal components and heating values for papers, anode and cathode were determinedin several batteries. As expected, cathode, anode and the steel can container are the main contributors to the 23.5 g averageweight of the batteries. Cathode is also the major contributor to the positive heating value of the batteries as well as to the heavymetals content. Mercury was detected in very low levels in these mercury-free batteries. Zinc and zinc oxide amounts in the anodesare highly variable. Results obtained were compared to information on alkaline batteries in the literature from 1993 to 1995; and apositive evolution in their manufacture is readily apparent. Data from the producer of batteries shows some small discrepanciesrelative to the results of this experimental work.
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