Primary Cells & Batteries, Manganese Dioxide

The US schedule separates button and coin cell formats under 8506100010 from all other manganese dioxide primary cells and batteries under 8506100090. The distinction is based on physical form factor: button and coin cells are small, disc-shaped cells typically used in watches, hearing aids, and small electronics. Standard cylindrical or prismatic alkaline cells fall under the NESOI line regardless of capacity.

Primary batteries do not trigger FSIS or APHIS admissibility review. However, importers should be aware that batteries containing certain materials may be subject to EPA regulations under RCRA or state-level extended producer responsibility (EPR) programs. Additionally, batteries marketed as consumer products must comply with CPSC safety standards, and lithium-containing variants (not this heading) face DOT hazmat transport rules. For manganese dioxide alkaline cells specifically, no mandatory federal import permit is required, but compliance with applicable product safety standards should be confirmed.