I'm not sure if this is the right forum for this, but the mods can feel free to move it if they wish. I ran across this deal on Craigslist, somebody selling 12,000 C size batteries for 18 cents each. There is no useful information about battery type, manufacturer, etc., in the ad other than they are Chinese. They are located in Carol Stream, IL. If you have any interest, you can contact the seller with your questions.
http://chicago.craigslist.org/wcl/for/352780938.html
http://chicago.craigslist.org/wcl/for/352780938.html