How to Fix Corroded Battery Compartments
You know that after removing the batteries, you need to store the electronics in a dry place, right? But you don’t always do that, do you? You just accidentally toss these decorative battery-powered holiday candles in a storage box and put the musical toys your child once loved in an old toy chest without thinking like the irresponsible battery owner you are.
And then next year (or many years later!) You will discover the consequences of your actions: a leaking battery and a corrosive terminal in which it is located, with a gritty bluish-white substance caused by a leak of potassium hydroxide.
Everything is fine. We’ve all been there. Your instinct may have been to breathe a little and mutter, “Well, I guess THIS is messed up!” And until recently, I would nod sullenly in agreement and sadly say goodbye to the toy guitar. But then I discovered that these compartments can be cleaned or, if they are really bad, replaced altogether.
Instructables has offered a crash course on how to safely do this job. (First of all, wear rubber gloves, goggles, and a mouth and nose mask. This material is toxic.)
There are tool lists and instructions for both cleaning and replacing , although I admit that replacing sounds like a lot of work and I will probably just give it up (sorry Earth, I can only do that much). However, cleaning up a more minor leak is not a big deal:
1. Remove the old battery.
You’re wearing protective gear, right? Ok, then remove the old battery with a screwdriver and dispose of it.
2. Neutralize residual potassium hydroxide.
You will need some vinegar or lemon juice to neutralize the residual potassium hydroxide. Here’s how :
1. The first thing to do is add the vinegar to a small container, such as a bottle cap.
2. Then add a little to each terminal using a small brush or something similar.
3. Wipe off excess from the terminals and let dry.
3. Clean it up
If you can easily remove the terminal without removing any wires, it will make things easier. Using a small file, sandpaper, or sanding board, saw off the terminal to remove any corrosion – or as much as possible. Then wipe with isopropyl alcohol. If you want to be more careful, Instructables suggests adding some non-oxidizing lubricant to prevent further oxidation.
Replace the terminal and add a battery to test it.
Progress
By now, you’ve probably learned the lesson about storing electronics with batteries in them, but small leaks and corrosion can still occur on the items we use every day. To add the odds in your favor, Instructables recommends that we do not mix different types of batteries in the same device and replace all batteries at the same time.
How To Fix Corroded Battery Terminals | lonesoulsurfer via Instructables
Updated at 11:39 am on June 10 to clarify that the potassium hydroxide needs to be neutralized, not the “acid.”