RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES

What types of batteries are rechargeable?

Rechargeable, including:

• Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd). (9V, AA, AAA, C, D, Battery Pack) These batteries have a wide range of uses including portable hand tools, electronics, appliances, shavers and toothbrushes. These batteries generally exceed hazardous waste criteria for Nickel and Cadmium. Charge only with specified chargers according to charger manufacturer's instructions. Do not dismantle or short circuit as this may cause the battery to explode, leak or get hot causing personal injury.
• Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH). (9V, AA, AAA, C, D, Battery Pack) Nickel-metal hydride batteries provide significantly more power per unit weight than Ni-Cd batteries and do not contain cadmium. These batteries generally exceed hazardous waste criteria for Nickel. Follow the same precautions as listed above for Ni-Cd batteries.
• Lithium Ion (Li-Ion). (Button, Proprietary Battery Pack). Lithium ion batteries provide significantly more power per unit weight and do not suffer from the memory effect Ni-Cd and Ni-MH batteries. All batteries containing lithium generally exceed hazardous waste criteria for reactivity. Lithium-ion batteries can rupture, ignite, or explode when exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight. Never store them inside of a car during hot weather. Never short-circuit, open the battery casing, or damage the safety devices on these batteries as it may cause the battery to ignite or explode.
• Small Sealed Lead-Acid (SSLA) batteries. Some are rechargeable. These batteries contain lead and sulfuric acid. Small Sealed Lead-Acid batteries generally exceed hazardous waste criteria for lead content and corrosivity.

For additional information regarding Universal Waste & Non-Hazardous Waste Batteries, see the Proper Management of Household Batteries fact sheet from the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, www.energizer.com, www.rayovac.com, and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battery_(electricity).