Sony launches new mercury-free button battery

Sony (NYSE:SNE) has developed a new mercury-free alkaline button battery, which it plans to commercialize in six different models. The new line is slated for an Oct. 10, 2009, launch at a cost of ¥200 (US$2) each.

The new battery mixes absorbent raw material into the battery’s cathode in place of mercury, and when combined with existing technology, prevents the build-up of hydrogen gas, the company claims.

In conventional alkaline button batteries, mercury is added to the anode material to suppress zinc corrosion and prevent the build-up of hydrogen. When mercury is not properly disposed, it can infiltrate the food chain, causing damage to humans and the environment.

Sony also makes a mercury-free silver oxide button battery, first commercialized in 2004 in 10 different models. Silver oxide batteries are used in everything from wrist watches and small-size thermometers to mobile game products.

The two mercury-free batteries are expected to eliminate 470 kilograms of mercury per year from Sony’s battery production.

Sony is also introducuing a new package design for its mercury-free alkaline and mercury-free silver oxide button batteries, and plans to promote them in its “mercury-free series,” according to a news release.

In 2008, the European Union enacted tough environmental standards for batteries (see EU readies new battery mandates). The move imposes restrictions on and requires labeling of batteries that contain mercury.

Cleantech developments making news in the past 24 hours

• Water innovation beyond desal: the new opportunities?
• Areva to launch solar business with Ausra takeover

View the last week of cleantech developments here | Subscribe to full feed