General battery question-CR123

I know lithium batteries have a shelf life of approx 10 years, but do not know what capacity can be expected after this period. I.E., If a flashlight will run 1 hour on a new battery, how long would it run on a battery 1, 2, 5 years old? This is assuming the batteries are kept at room temp (50-80F). I ask to determine if it is practical to buy quantities of batteries that may not be used in a year or two. Would it be better to store lithium batteries in plastic bags in the refridgerator or freezer?

Norris

I don't think storing lithium cells in the freezer is very practical. You're talking about 10 years.

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nsmith said:
I know lithium batteries have a shelf life of approx 10 years, but do not know what capacity can be expected after this period. I.E., If a flashlight will run 1 hour on a new battery, how long would it run on a battery 1, 2, 5 years old? This is assuming the batteries are kept at room temp (50-80F).

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Quoting Duracell (about Li cells), "Capacity retention is over 95% after 5 years of room temperature storage."

Don't sweat it.

Doug Owen

When manufacturers quote battery shelf life, they are usually talking of at least 70% capacity retention.