A rechargeable alkaline battery (also known as Alkaline Rechargeable or Rechargeable Alkaline Manganese (RAM)) is a type of alkaline battery that is rechargeable. The first generation rechargeable alkaline technology was developed by Battery Technologies Inc in Canada and licensed to Pure Energy, EnviroCell, Rayovac, and Grandcell. Subsequent patent and advancements in technology have been introduced. The shapes include AAA, AA, C, D, and snap-on 9-volt batteries. Rechargeable alkaline batteries have the ability to carry their charge for years, unlike most NiCd and NiMH batteries which self-discharge in 90 days (see below **). However, new low self-discharge NiMH cells, such as Sanyo "Eneloop", claim to retain 90% charge after 1 year. If produced properly, rechargeable alkaline batteries can have a charge/recharge efficiency of as much as 99.9% and be an environmentally-friendly form of energy storage.
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Although these batteries can be used in any device that supports a standard size (AA, AAA, C, D, etc.), they are formulated to last longest in periodical use items. This type of battery is best suited for use in low-drain devices such as remote controls or for devices that are used periodically such as flashlights, television remotes, portable radios, etc.
Though rechargeable alkaline batteries are relatively cheap and contain a high charge-capacity, their rechargeable capacity will vary by how much they are discharged:
Rechargeable alkalines are alterations of traditional alkaline batteries. They resist leakage that a recharge would cause, so they can be safely recharged many times.
Some types of cells contain mercury or cadmium and thus are a serious environment hazard unless special care is taken for their disposal. As of August 2007[update], a number of companies make batteries that are non-toxic and free from heavy metals. According to the websites of EnviroCell[1] and PureEnergy and according to old Rayovac packaging, these manufacturers' rechargeable alkaline batteries have no mercury or cadmium.
It is also possible to recharge primary alkaline batteries in a rechargeable alkaline charger or even some NiMH/NiCd chargers, but the manufacturers recommend against doing so.