Prototype alkaline battery replacement for the Li/SO2 BA-5590/U battery

The concept of a cost-effective alkaline battery replacement for the BA-5590/U Li/SO₂, battery was successfully demonstrated. Initially, three types of alkaline “AA” cells were investigated. These include alkaline/manganese dioxide (Eveready Energizer), zinc chloride (Rayovac Heavy Duty), and LeClanche (Eveready Classic). Of the three alkaline batteries initially tested, the alkaline/manganese dioxide cells provided the lowest operating battery cost. Under a simulated cyclic load profile of a major BA-5590/U battery application, the alkaline battery provided power an approximate operating cost of $1.0/hr; whereas the operating cost of the BA-5590/U was approximately $1.4/hr. Finally, improved Eveready Energizer alkaline “AA” cells were tested. The improved Energizers, dubbed the Eveready Energizer Advanced Formula (EEAF), are promoted to last up to 33% longer than the conventional Energizer. Under worst case scenarios of 100% transmit (20 W), the EEAF battery operating cost was approximately $7.9/hr; whereas, the BA-5590/U operating cost is $8.1kr. Lower alkaline cell unit cost (through larger purchases and commercial availability) and continued increasing BA-5590/U unit cost are factors which will greatly affect an alkaline battery cost-effectiveness