8506.60.00 - Air-zinc

This category, HTS code 8506.60.00, specifically classifies "Air-zinc" primary cells and primary batteries. These are electrochemical devices that convert chemical energy into electrical energy, designed for single use and not rechargeable. The defining characteristic of this group is the use of air as a cathode reactant, which reacts with the anode (typically zinc) during the discharge process.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings, such as manganese dioxide (8506.10.00), mercuric oxide (8506.30), silver oxide (8506.40), and lithium (8506.50.00) batteries, lies in the specific cathode material and operating principle. While other primary battery types rely on solid or liquid electrolytes and distinct cathode materials for their electrochemical reactions, air-zinc batteries uniquely utilize atmospheric oxygen for their operation.

The subcategories within 8506.60.00 further refine the classification based on the physical form of the air-zinc battery. "Button and coin cell batteries" (8506.60.00.10) refer to small, flat, circular batteries commonly found in hearing aids and small electronic devices. The "Other" category (8506.60.00.90) encompasses all other forms of air-zinc batteries that do not fall under the button or coin cell classification, such as larger cylindrical or prismatic configurations.