A lot of people have a flashlight at home for emergencies, usually powered by regular alkaline batteries that need replacement every few years. However, there is a method to make a battery that can last almost forever based on simple chemistry. JGJMatt demonstrated this inventive approach.
This innovative flashlight is designed using 3D printing technology to create a customized battery with magnesium as the anode and copper as the cathode. The cathode is formed by wrapping copper tape around a rectangular component, and magnesium ribbon is used for the anodes. The 3D-printed battery housing is filled with cotton wool, which acts as a storage medium for the electrolyte, in this instance, tap water.
The custom battery is utilized with a basic LED flashlight circuit enclosed in its own 3D-printed shell. In the event of a power outage, the LED flashlight is set up with the custom battery, and then submerged in water. This action activates the battery, providing around 4.5 volts and 20 milliamps to power the LED.
Although this DIY flashlight may not shine very brightly and may not be as dependable as a conventional battery-operated one due to the possibility of the DIY battery corroding over time unless kept completely dry, water-activated batteries do have their own advantages. It can serve as an enjoyable educational activity to demonstrate the basics of batteries, particularly for children who are interested in science and electricity!
**Image Source:** 20BaLeN02 / Shutterstock
