A few year ago I built a text fixture that enabled the comparative testing of cells, and found no consistent difference between alkaline brands. That surprised me, since AA cells cost from $0.15 to more than $1.00 each, depending on brand and retailer. In general, you can safely buy *any* brand based solely on cost and expiration date. These Rayovac cells at about 20c each is a good deal - the exact same cells are probably $1 each at a convenience store...
In various test modes, including high current drain, etc. I found that any brand can be made to leak. Alkaline cells use a potassium hydroxide (KOH) electrolyte, which is liquid and very "alkaline" of course. The white crust is potassium carbonate, a safe chemical formed when KOH leaks and meets CO2 from the air. But the leaking KOH is powerfully alkaline and can damage tissue, so wash your hands...
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In various test modes, including high current drain, etc. I found that any brand can be made to leak. Alkaline cells use a potassium hydroxide (KOH) electrolyte, which is liquid and very "alkaline" of course. The white crust is potassium carbonate, a safe chemical formed when KOH leaks and meets CO2 from the air. But the leaking KOH is powerfully alkaline and can damage tissue, so wash your hands...
Thank you!