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Battery Identification Chart
Not sure which batteries you have? Check the chemistry markings below. Familiar examples help, but size and shape alone cannot tell you the battery type.
DOWNLOAD FREE A4 CHART ↓Read the Label First
Look for the chemistry name on the battery or check the manufacturer’s information. Never open a battery pack to identify it. If a label is unreadable, send us a clear photo and we’ll help with the next step.
Alkaline
ALKALINE
AA, AAA, C, D and 9V batteries in everyday equipment.
Zinc-carbon
ZINC CARBON / ZINC CHLORIDE
Often sold as heavy-duty batteries. Read the chemistry label.
Lithium primary
LITHIUM / NON-RECHARGEABLE
Some AA batteries and coin cells. Separate from rechargeable lithium-ion.
Lithium-ion
Li-ion / Li-polymer / LiFePO4
Laptop, phone, power-tool and other rechargeable packs.
Lead acid
Pb / LEAD ACID / VRLA
Car batteries, UPS units and other backup power systems.
Nickel-cadmium
Ni-Cd / NiCd
Some older tools and emergency-lighting battery packs.
Nickel-metal hydride
Ni-MH / NiMH
Rechargeable AA and AAA cells, and some equipment packs.
Button & coin cells
READ THE CHEMISTRY MARKING
A shape, not a chemistry: may be lithium, silver oxide or another type.
Damaged, Swollen, Leaking or Unusually Hot?
Do not add the battery to a routine collection container. Stop using it and seek specialist advice before handling. If it smokes or catches fire, get out, raise the alarm and call 999. Do not tackle the fire.
This is an identification aid, not a waste classification, packaging or transport approval. Illustrations are examples only.
Chemistry information: Energizer Battery Information. Warning signs: London Fire Brigade. Reviewed 8 October 2026.
How to Store Waste Batteries Safely → · Battery Recycling & Collection →
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