Can You Recharge CR2032 Batteries?

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CR2032 batteries are non-rechargeable coin-cell batteries. So, there is no way you can recharge it, no matter how innovative you can be. Any attempts to recharge a CR2032 battery is likely to lead to a serious s damage and in some cases accidents and injuries. Even if the recharging process seems smooth, the result will yield into nothing. After all, CR2032 batteries are primary batteries and once their energy is depleted cannot be restored.

Beyond the non-rechargeability property, there are numerous other features that you should know about this battery. Keep reading as we explain to you why you should never recharge the CR2032 and the alternatives that you can get if you are looking for rechargeable batteries.

Table of Contents

Overview of the CR2032 batteries

The CR2032 is a coin-cell battery that utilizes the lithium chemical compound to power different types of electronic devices. You will find this battery in calculators, wristwatches, remote controls, medical devices among other small and portable electronic devices.

The fact that this is a lithium-based battery means you can be sure of its reliability when it comes to powering the devices. The outer side of the battery comprises of a metal casing which serves as the battery’s negative terminals. Its positive terminal is right at the top of the battery.

Technical specifications of CR2032

Beyond being non-rechargeable, here are the key technical specs of the CR2031 battery that you should know:

Nominal voltage: 3 Volts
Capacity: 235 mAh
Diameter: 20mm
Height: 3.2mm
Operating temperature: 0°C-60°C

Why is it impossible to recharge CR2032 battery?

The answer is simple: The chemical composition of CR2032 does not allow it to be recharged. The anode of this battery comprises of lithium while the cathode is made of manganese dioxide. This combination does not allow the reversal of electrons- a process that takes place during the recharging process.

What will happen when I recharge CR2032 battery?

Let’s say you ignore the guidelines and proceed to recharge the CR2032 battery, is there anything bad that will happen?

Yes, many things will go wrong when you force your way. The first obvious incidence is overheating which will likely lead to the explosion of the battery. Fire is another possible incidence that can stem from your decision to recharge the battery.

Recharging this battery can make the lithium ions to form dendrites which will end up creating short circuit. All these mishaps because of your need to recharge this battery can cause major damage.

How do I dispose of CR2032 battery?

Since CR2032 batteries are not rechargeable, you will have to dispose them once their energy is depleted. You should be careful on how you dispose of these batteries to avoid causing environmental damage.

The first thing that you should consider when getting rid of these batteries is the local regulations in your area. Find out what the rules in the area state regarding the disposal of coin cell batteries and the related electronics.

Also, keep the battery away from heat and flames even after you are done using them. You should also separate these used CR2032 batteries from the regular trash. All these regulations are done for the safety of the environment and biodiversity in general.

CR2032 alternatives

Let’s say you want rechargeable coin cell battery that will still deliver the same performance as the CR2032 battery. Which alternative coin-cell batteries should you go for? Here are the perfect alternatives.

BR2032: This is usually considered a perfect alternative to the CR2032 battery. It is a rechargeable lithium battery that has the same voltage as the CR2032 (3 volts) battery. However, it is slightly thicker and has higher output than CR2032.

Rechargeable NiMH batteries: Away from the lithium batteries, you can go for the Nickel-metal hydride batteries. However, most people don’t consider them alternative for the CR2032 because of their low performance and are also big in terms of size.

Be careful when looking for the rechargeable alternative batteries for the CR2032. Ensure that the specs match with those of your device.

The physical dimensions of the alternative battery will also matter. Remember that each device has a designated battery compartment to support the size of the CR2032 battery. Your alternatives should perfectly fit into these battery compartments.

Where to buy CR2032 battery

CR2032 are easily available at different places where you can buy CR2032 batteries. One of them is from your local electronics shops and hardware store. Thanks to the technology and globalization, you can now buy CR2032 batteries online. All you need is to get reputable suppliers and manufacturers who have what it takes to deliver the best battery for your application.

When buying CR2032 batteries, take your time to verify its specifications. This is vital because different manufacturers tend to have different specs on these batteries.

Vet the brand of the battery to ensure that they produce high quality CR2032 batteries for sale. The same applies when it comes to choosing CR2032 battery suppliers. Ensure that they source their coin cell batteries from the best brands.

Do you want to get the best deals when purchasing CR2032 batteries? Buy them in bulk direct from the suppliers. Purchasing CR2032 batteries wholesale will ensure that you get the best price for quality battery.

Conclusion

Now that you know CR2032 is a non-rechargeable battery, what next? First, you should know the applications that will match the needs of non-rechargeable batteries. That means that you should have plans of buying new CR2032 batteries whenever the ones on your device get depleted.

The second option is to get rechargeable batteries that are alternatives to the CR2032 batteries. We have already described these alternatives in the guide and most of them belong to the lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium and nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) families. All you need is to analyze your power requirements and choose the right battery for your application.

Whichever the option that you end up with, ensure that you buy from the best coin-cell battery suppliers. Other than ending up with the quality battery, the safety of your electronics will be guaranteed.