Course:SPPH381B/TermProject/Alkaline battery- Samin/Air transport/Leaks of corrosive liquid or other material that can injure people or damage property (like zinc, manganese dioxide and potassium hydroxide)

Recognition

Alkaline batteries are prone to leaking potassium hydroxide, a caustic agent that can cause respiratory, eye, and skin irritations. It can cause tissue damage if it gets in the eyes in particular. It also attracts moisture and usually forms a white efflorescent crust of potassium carbonate after sitting for a little while. It is important to wipe up this electrolyte and carefully clean the battery compartment with a damp cloth to prevent it from migrating deeper into the electronics and causing irreparable damage to the circuit boards.

Evaluation

The Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR; 49 CFR parts 100-185) include provisions for packaging, hazard communication (package marking, labeling, and shipping papers), and handling batteries and battery-powered devices. The purpose of these regulations is to protect the safety of people and property when batteries and battery-powered devices are being shipped. When transported by aircraft, the packaging for batteries must incorporate an acid- or alkali-proof liner, or include an additional packaging of sufficient strength, and be adequately sealed to prevent leakage of electrolyte fluid from the packaging in the event of a leak from a battery.

Control

Alkaline batteries are safely packaged to be transported by air.

1. Store batteries in a dry place and avoid extremely high temperatures.

2. Better packaging.

3. Wear

4. When cleaning up an alkaline battery leak, work only in a well-ventilated area

5. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.

6. To clean up an alkaline battery leak, use an acid to neutralize the alkaline material. Neutralizing the alkaline will halt further corrosion of the electronic components. The best choices are vinegar (dilute acetic acid) or lemon juice (dilute citric acid). Both work and are nontoxic. Do not use water.