Question about D batteries
 

I use LCD lighting for artwork, I noticed one was dull after just a week w new batteries.
I was replacing the batteries when I noticed one of the old batteries was very wet.
Strange smell and a burning feeling on my hands. Is this a fire hazard?, First time ever having this experience w batteries

Sounds like the batteries puked acid. It will promote corrosion in the fixture/contacts. Given the low voltage I would not think fire hazard.

And it's DC.

Carter

Did you go cheap with the batteries? Duracell or Everready have always been stout for me but I have noticed that the cheap ones do leak.

I saw some H.F. batteries and they were made with reverse polarity. Made in China

Might be worth sticking a multimeter on them.
Yo could probably load-test with a small fan or light bulb at the same time.

Duracell