
Due to their size, these batteries are not collected in the containers as shown above, but rather large blue plastic drums. They are rechargeable but have a lifespan of 3-5 years. Smaller versions of this battery are often found in uninterruptable power supplies (UPS) and emergency lighting systems. They contain both a toxic heavy metal (lead) and corrosive liquid (sulfuric acid), both of which are hazardous materials. Lead-acid batteries are commonly known as car batteries. These batteries must be recycled as universal waste. A number of these batteries manufactured by Sony in Dell, Sony, Apple, Lenovo, Panasonic, Toshiba and Sharp laptop computers have been recalled in the past due to possibility of a dangerous short circuit causing the units to become unstable, posing a risk of explosion. They come in sizes similar to that of Ni-Cad batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are most commonly found in devices that drain a significant amount of power quickly such as cameras, cordless power tools and most commonly, laptop computers. Ni-Cad batteries are available in a host of sizes from large rectangular devices to smaller sizes akin to alkaline batteries. The presence of cadmium, a toxic metal, requires this battery to be recycled. Ni-Cad batteries are a very common rechargeable battery found in many devices most commonly in cordless power tools. Although this type of battery is becoming increasing rare, it may still be found in older equipment. Mercury and silver are toxic metals regulated as hazardous waste that should never be disposed in the trash. Non-rechargeable batteries similar in appearance to the lithium button cell batteries mentioned above. They can be identified by the markings “RECHARGEABLE” OR “Ni-MH”. Batteries of this type are rechargeable and available in sizes similar to alkaline batteries (size AAA, AA, C, and D). Ni-MH Batteries contain a NiOOH positive electrode and a water reactive, metal alloy forming the negative electrode. They are commonly found in watches, laser pointers, computer motherboards, and other electronic devices that require a power source of small size.

They are commonly known as “button cell” batteries due to their small size. Lithium batteries are typically nonrechargeable and contain lithium, a water reactive alkali metal. NOTE: To prevent short-circuits and potential fire hazard during storage and transport, battery terminals must be taped over prior to placing the battery into the receptacle.

MacMillan (1st floor receiving hallway outside of B22).Icahn M06 storage (outside of loading dock).EHS provides collection containers in research buildings on campus for collecting batteries approved for recycling. The following batteries are collected for recycling and are prohibited from disposal in the general trash. Please refrain from placing alkaline batteries in the universal waste/recycling pails. Princeton University follows this guideline and does not recycle alkaline batteries. From a life cycle and energy management standpoint, recycling an alkaline battery is more environmentally detrimental than disposing of it directly in the trash i.e., landfilling. Alkaline Batteries - General Lab Waste (Trash)Īlkaline batteries are not rechargeable and do not contain any regulated hazardous materials. The following is a quick guide listing some common batteries and the proper methods of disposal. hazardous but common (other examples include pesticides and mercury lamps), and while storage and shipping requirements are less stringent, proper disposal is mandatory. NOTE: Batteries of this type are categorized by the EPA as universal waste, i.e.
