By sion932 
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) released the 13th edition of IEC 60086-1 in April 2021, titled “Primary batteries – Part 1: General”. This international standard serves as a foundational framework for primary batteries (non-rechargeable batteries), integrating updated requirements and standardized procedures to align with the evolving needs of the battery industry, device designers, and end-users. Incorporating the corrigendum issued in June 2022, IEC 60086-1:2021 replaces the 2015 edition (IEC 60086-1:2015) and enhances interoperability, safety, and environmental sustainability across global battery manufacturing and application.
1. Scope and Core Objectives
IEC 60086-1:2021 covers a broad spectrum of standardization aspects for primary cells and batteries, including dimensions, nomenclature, terminal configurations, markings, test methods, typical performance, safety, and environmental considerations. Its primary objective is to ensure interchangeability of primary batteries from different manufacturers by unifying form, fit, and function— a critical requirement for device designers to ensure compatibility and for users to make informed product selections. Additionally, the standard establishes systematic procedures for standardizing battery requirements and provides a classification tool for electrochemical systems, specifying system letters, electrode materials, electrolytes, and nominal/maximum open-circuit voltages.
2. Key Technical Requirements
2.1 Design and Physical Specifications
The standard outlines stringent design requirements for primary batteries, including detailed specifications for physical dimensions and terminal configurations. These requirements ensure that batteries fit seamlessly into compatible devices and maintain consistent electrical contact. By standardizing these parameters, manufacturers avoid design discrepancies that could lead to device malfunctions or safety hazards.
2.2 Classification and Nomenclature
As a critical classification tool, IEC 60086-1:2021 defines clear nomenclature rules and system letters for electrochemical systems. This classification enables consistent identification of battery types based on their chemical composition (e.g., zinc-carbon, lithium), facilitating accurate communication across the supply chain, from manufacturers to end-users. The standard also specifies nominal and maximum open-circuit voltages for each electrochemical system, providing a baseline for performance evaluation.
2.3 Performance and Test Methods
To guarantee reliable performance, IEC 60086-1:2021 prescribes standardized test methods for evaluating key battery parameters, such as capacity, open-circuit voltage, and internal resistance. These tests are conducted under controlled conditions, including varying temperatures and load scenarios, to assess battery performance in real-world applications. The standard also defines typical performance criteria, ensuring that batteries meet consistent quality benchmarks across different production batches.
2.4 Safety and Environmental Considerations
Safety is a paramount focus of IEC 60086-1:2021. The standard includes requirements to prevent hazards such as leakage, overheating, and short circuits, specifying safety measures for battery design, packaging, and handling. It also provides safety guidelines for end-users, such as prohibitions on incineration and short-circuiting of batteries. From an environmental perspective, the standard addresses sustainable production and disposal practices, aligning with global efforts to reduce the environmental impact of battery waste.
3. Revisions and Enhancements from the 2015 Edition
IEC 60086-1:2021 incorporates several key revisions to address industry advancements and emerging challenges since the 2015 edition. The inclusion of the June 2022 corrigendum ensures accuracy and clarity in technical specifications. While the core framework remains consistent with previous editions, the 2021 version strengthens safety requirements and updates test methods to reflect new battery chemistries and application scenarios (e.g., high-performance lithium primary batteries for industrial use). The redline version of the standard (IEC 60086-1:2021 RLV) provides a convenient comparison of changes between the 2021 and 2015 editions, aiding manufacturers in transitioning to the updated standard.
4. Industry Impact and Application
IEC 60086-1:2021 plays a pivotal role in global battery markets by establishing a unified standard that transcends regional boundaries. For manufacturers, compliance with the standard enhances market access, as it demonstrates adherence to international quality and safety norms. Device designers benefit from standardized battery specifications, reducing design complexity and ensuring compatibility with global supply chains. End-users gain confidence in product reliability and safety, as batteries meeting IEC 60086-1:2021 requirements undergo rigorous testing and certification.
The standard is particularly relevant in industries such as consumer electronics, medical devices, industrial equipment, and automotive applications, where primary batteries are critical for operation. Its emphasis on interchangeability and safety also supports the growth of IoT devices and portable electronics, which rely on consistent battery performance.
5. Future Outlook
IEC 60086-1:2021 is set to remain a key standard for primary batteries until its stability date in 2025. The IEC Technical Committee TC 35 (Primary cells and batteries) is already developing the 14th edition, with a forecast publication date of April 2024. This upcoming revision will likely address emerging technologies, such as advanced lithium-based chemistries and improved environmental sustainability measures, ensuring the standard continues to keep pace with industry innovations.
IEC 60086-1:2021 is an indispensable international standard that harmonizes primary battery design, performance, safety, and environmental practices. By providing a unified framework for manufacturers, designers, and users, it enhances interoperability, ensures product reliability, and promotes global market integration. As the battery industry evolves, the standard will continue to adapt, reinforcing its role in supporting safe, sustainable, and innovative primary battery technologies.
References
- IEC 60086-1:2021 RLV. Primary batteries – Part 1: General. International Electrotechnical Commission, 2021.
- IEC 60086-1:2021. Primary batteries – Part 1: General. IEC Webstore, 2021.
- IEC 60086-1:2021/COR 1:2022. Corrigendum to IEC 60086-1:2021. International Electrotechnical Commission, 2022.