The use of an alkaline electrolyte, electrolytically prepared manganese dioxide, and a more reactive zinc powder contribute to a higher initial cost than zinc-carbon cells. However, due to the longer service life, the alkaline cell is actually more cost-effective based upon cost-per-hour usage, particularly with high drains and continuous discharge. The high-grade, energy-rich materials composing the anode and cathode, in conjunc-tion with the more conductive alkaline electrolyte, produce more energy than could be stored in standard zinc-carbon cell sizes.
