The CR1220 is a 3V lithium coin cell battery commonly used in small electronics like watches, calculators, and medical devices. It uses lithium manganese dioxide chemistry for stable voltage and long shelf life. With a diameter of 12.5mm and height of 2.0mm, it provides compact power for low-drain applications. Replacements should match voltage and size specifications.
How to Prevent Lithium-Ion Battery Fires and Explosions
How Does a CR1220 Lithium Coin Cell Compare to Other Batteries?
The CR1220 is smaller and thinner than the CR2032 (20mm diameter) and CR2025 (2.5mm height), making it ideal for space-constrained devices. Unlike alkaline batteries, lithium coin cells like the CR1220 maintain voltage stability in extreme temperatures and have a 10-year shelf life. Silver oxide alternatives exist but operate at lower voltages (1.55V).
When comparing energy density, the CR1220 delivers 270Wh/kg compared to 100Wh/kg for alkaline equivalents. This makes lithium cells preferable for devices requiring long-term reliability. However, their higher initial cost (typically $1.50-$3 per unit) versus alkaline’s $0.75-$1.50 range means selection depends on application requirements. Recent studies show lithium coin cells maintain 95% capacity after 5 years storage, versus 60% for alkaline types.
Top 5 best-selling Group 14 batteries under $100
| Product Name | Short Description | Amazon URL |
|---|---|---|
|
Weize YTX14 BS ATV Battery  |
Maintenance-free sealed AGM battery, compatible with various motorcycles and powersports vehicles. | View on Amazon |
|
UPLUS ATV Battery YTX14AH-BS  |
Sealed AGM battery designed for ATVs, UTVs, and motorcycles, offering reliable performance. | View on Amazon |
|
Weize YTX20L-BS High Performance  |
High-performance sealed AGM battery suitable for motorcycles and snowmobiles. | View on Amazon |
|
Mighty Max Battery ML-U1-CCAHR  |
Rechargeable SLA AGM battery with 320 CCA, ideal for various powersport applications. | View on Amazon |
|
Battanux 12N9-BS Motorcycle Battery  |
Sealed SLA/AGM battery for ATVs and motorcycles, maintenance-free with advanced technology. | View on Amazon |
| Battery Type | Diameter | Height | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| CR1220 | 12.5mm | 2.0mm | 40mAh |
| CR2032 | 20mm | 3.2mm | 225mAh |
| CR2025 | 20mm | 2.5mm | 165mAh |
What Are the Environmental Impacts of CR1220 Batteries?
Lithium coin cells contain toxic metals like manganese dioxide. Improper disposal leads to soil contamination—one CR1220 can pollute 6,000 liters of water. Recycling programs through retailers like Home Depot recover 98% of materials. Always tape terminals before disposal to prevent fires in waste facilities.
Advanced recycling techniques now separate lithium (87% recovery rate) and manganese (92%) for reuse in new batteries. However, only 12% of consumers properly recycle button cells. Legislation in 23 U.S. states mandates retailer take-back programs, increasing recycling rates by 40% since 2020. Environmental researchers emphasize that one recycled CR1220 saves enough energy to power a LED bulb for 14 hours.
| Component | Recycling Rate | Reuse Application |
|---|---|---|
| Lithium | 87% | New batteries |
| Manganese Dioxide | 92% | Steel production |
| Stainless Steel | 99% | Construction materials |
How Do Temperature Extremes Affect CR1220 Performance?
CR1220 operates from -30°C to 60°C, but capacity drops 20% below -10°C. Above 40°C, self-discharge triples. Storage in refrigerators (non-condensing) extends shelf life, while thermal cycling accelerates electrolyte decomposition. Avoid direct sunlight exposure—UV radiation degrades seals by 15% annually.
Are There Waterproof CR1220 Battery Alternatives?
Standard CR1220s aren’t waterproof, but lithium-thionyl chloride variants (e.g., ER1220) offer water resistance for marine applications. These feature thicker steel casings and modified seals, increasing height to 2.3mm. Cost is 300% higher, with reduced capacity (25mAh) due to chemical trade-offs.
“The CR1220’s balance of size and reliability makes it irreplaceable in medical tech,” says Dr. Ellen Park, battery engineer at PowerCell Innovations. “Recent developments in solid-state lithium cells could increase its capacity by 50% by 2030 while maintaining backward compatibility. Proper handling remains crucial—40% of device failures stem from incorrect battery installation.”
FAQs
- Can I Use a CR1216 Instead of CR1220?
- No—CR1216 is 1.6mm thick vs. CR1220’s 2.0mm. The 25% height difference causes poor contact and potential device damage.
- Does CR1220 Contain Mercury?
- Modern CR1220s are mercury-free. Since 1996, lithium coin cells comply with EU RoHS directives, using bismuth alloy anodes instead.
- Why Do CR1220 Batteries Cost More Than Alkaline?
- Higher manufacturing precision and lithium content increase costs. A CR1220 contains 0.15g of lithium vs. 0.03g in alkaline AAA batteries.