LR44 battery features, specifications and working principle

The LR44 battery is a type of alkaline button cell battery commonly used in small electronic devices. Here's a brief introduction to the LR44 battery:

Chemistry: The LR44 is an alkaline battery, which means it uses zinc and manganese dioxide chemistry. Alkaline batteries are known for having a higher energy density and a longer shelf-life when compared to zinc-carbon batteries.

Voltage: The nominal voltage of an LR44 battery is 1.5 volts, which remains relatively constant as the battery depletes.

Size: The LR44 typically measures 11.6mm in diameter and 5.4mm in height, which is standardized across different manufacturers.

Capacity: The capacity of LR44 batteries can vary depending on the manufacturer and usage conditions, but they typically offer between 110 to 130 milliampere-hours (mAh).

Replacements and Equivalents: The LR44 is also equivalent to other battery model numbers depending on the specific chemistry and brand, including AG13, A76, 357, and SR44. However, there can be slight differences in voltage and capacity amongst these equivalents, particularly between alkaline (LR) and silver oxide (SR) versions; for instance, SR44 batteries generally offer a more stable voltage and longer life but tend to be a bit more costly.

If your device requires an LR44 battery, it's important to check the manual or existing battery’s label to ensure you are using the correct equivalent as certain devices might be sensitive to slight differences in voltage or capacity.

When using or replacing LR44 batteries, or any small batteries, be mindful of safety as they can be a choking hazard for children and pets, and they must be disposed of properly according to local regulations to avoid environmental harm.

Basic characteristics and uses of LR44 battery

The LR44 battery is a small and circular alkaline battery with several key characteristics:

Basic Characteristics:

• Chemistry: Alkaline zinc-manganese dioxide (Zn/MnO2).
• Voltage: 1.5 volts.
• Diameter: Approximately 11.6 mm.
• Height: Approximately 5.4 mm.
• Capacity: Varies by manufacturer, generally around 110 to 130 milliampere-hours (mAh).

Performance:

• Shelf Life: Alkaline LR44 batteries can have a shelf life of a few years (typically 2-3 years) due to low self-discharge rates, but it varies depending on the storage conditions.
• Voltage Stability: The voltage drops gradually over the lifespan of the battery, with a plateau that sustains most of the battery life before it drops off toward the end.
• Availability: Widely available, often found in drugstores, hardware stores, and supermarkets.

Common Uses:

LR44 batteries are used in a variety of small electronic devices, including:

• Watches: Small digital or analog wristwatches that require a compact power source.
• Calculators: Slim electronic calculators frequently use LR44 batteries due to their flat, round shape.
• Laser Pointers: Because of their size and power output, they are well-suited for small laser pointers.
• Digital Thermometers: Many medical or kitchen thermometers use LR44 batteries due to their reliability and long shelf life.
• Hearing Aids: Some hearing aid models use LR44 or its equivalent due to the small size and voltage requirements.
• Toys: Small electronic toys or handheld games that require a compact power source.
• Glow Sticks: Some reusable glow sticks or light-up decorations use LR44 batteries for their size.
• Car Key Fobs: The compact size makes them suitable for remote controls and key fobs.

General Considerations:

• Non-rechargeable: LR44 batteries are usually not rechargeable, so they should be disposed of properly after their lifespan.
• Safety Notes: As with all small batteries, LR44s should be kept away from small children and pets to prevent choking or ingestion hazards. If swallowed, they can be dangerous and require immediate medical attention.
• Environmental Impact: Batteries should never be thrown away in regular trash due to potential environmental harm. They should be recycled according to local regulations.

Because of their common size and voltage, LR44 batteries are also often used interchangeably with other similar types like AG13, A76, 357, and SR44 (silver-oxide). However, it's important to note that while they might physically fit where LR44 batteries are used, the different chemistry of silver-oxide batteries (represented by "SR") means they might have a slightly higher voltage (typically 1.55 volts) and a longer lifespan, making them a higher-end alternative to alkaline cells like the LR44.