Is there a way to test button batteries. . . while still in the package?

[lt1boss]

Is there ANY way to test button battieries, 1.5 volts, that are still in the package? packaging consists of thick cardstock like paper approximately .5 mm thick. I have probably a crate of these batteries and I don't want to open them up.
Any suggestions?

[franklin97355]

needles on your test leads.

[Sensor Geek]

A real engineer would use miniature divining rods made from bent resistor leads. Be sure to post some action shots for the rest of us.

Or, as franklin said, poke holes through the package if it doesn't already have them. Many already have test holes just for this purpose. Good, sharp needle-like leads are a great thing and would leave nearly imperceptible holes.

If the packaging is clear enough, examination of the seals under magnification and possibly UV can at least identify some bad ones, but not variations in charge state.

X-rays might reveal differences in charged and discharged cells, and would be very practical and cheap if you happen to be a rent-a-cop for the TSA and get a little bored between cupcake confiscations.

[JamesC4S]

X-rays might reveal differences in charged and discharged cells

This sounds as effective as weighing them... (E = MC^2).

[Sensor Geek]

Well, the effect might not be universal across all battery types, but it works for 9 volts.

X-ray of 9V battery

9v_x-ray.png (96.33 KiB) Viewed 605 times

Also, my cousin's uncle's daughter's father was able to detect the empty one by dowsing with chop sticks.

(I'm going to get banned from here, I just know it..)