What chemicals inside a hearing aid battery make it explode?

In summary, the conversation involved using 75 used hearing aid batteries to create a small explosion in a fire. It was noted that any chemical can explode when heated in a closed metal container, but the chemicals in batteries, such as zinc and mercury, can be toxic. Due to safety concerns, the conversation was closed.
  • #1
gary350
274
66
I saved 75 used hearing aid batteries and threw them into a fire. It took about 8 seconds then, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom,boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom,boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom,boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom,boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom,boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom,boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom. About as much fun as shoot a whole pack of firecrackers. What chemical makes the batteries explode?
 
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  • #2
Just about anything will explode if it's heated in a closed metal container... and this might not be so much fun if you consider how many of those chemicals are toxic... zinc and mercury in particular.

We don't generally host discussions that could lead to a Darwin Award, so this thread is closed.
 
  • Like
Likes DrClaude, Bystander, davenn and 1 other person

FAQ: What chemicals inside a hearing aid battery make it explode?

1. What causes a hearing aid battery to explode?

Hearing aid batteries typically contain small amounts of zinc and manganese dioxide, which are the primary chemicals involved in the chemical reaction that produces electricity. However, if the battery is exposed to extreme heat or pressure, this reaction can become uncontrolled and lead to an explosion.

2. Are all hearing aid batteries at risk of exploding?

No, not all hearing aid batteries are at risk of exploding. Only disposable zinc-air batteries have the potential to explode, as they contain a flammable electrolyte solution. Rechargeable batteries, such as lithium-ion, do not pose the same risk.

3. How common are hearing aid battery explosions?

Hearing aid battery explosions are extremely rare. The likelihood of a battery exploding is less than 0.0001%, and most incidents occur due to improper storage or handling of the batteries.

4. What precautions can I take to prevent a hearing aid battery explosion?

To prevent a hearing aid battery explosion, it is important to store batteries in a cool, dry place and avoid exposing them to extreme heat or pressure. It is also important to check the expiration date on the battery and replace it if it is expired.

5. What should I do if a hearing aid battery explodes?

If a hearing aid battery explodes, it is important to carefully dispose of the battery and any damaged hearing aids. If you have any skin irritation or breathing difficulties, seek medical attention immediately. It is also important to contact the manufacturer of the battery to report the incident.

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