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Manganese Carbonate, High Purity

Updated: 2026-07-24

Overview

High purity manganese carbonate (MnCO3) is an inorganic compound primarily used in industrial applications due to its stability and manganese content. It is synthesized through precipitation reactions involving manganese salts and carbonate sources. The powder is valued for its role in producing manganese oxides, which are critical in ceramics, agriculture, and energy storage. MnCO3 is classified as a non-hazardous material under standard conditions, though its decomposition at high temperatures releases CO2. Industrial grades typically exceed 99% purity, with trace metals like iron and lead controlled to meet battery and food-contact standards.

Physical and Chemical Properties

High purity manganese carbonate appears as a fine, odorless powder with colors ranging from white to pale pink, depending on impurities. Its crystalline structure belongs to the calcite group, contributing to its low solubility in water (0.065 g/L at 25°C). The compound decomposes upon heating above 200°C, forming manganese oxide (MnO) and carbon dioxide. Key chemical properties include its reactivity with strong acids, producing manganese salts, and its role as a reducing agent in metallurgy. Its density (3.12 g/cm³) and thermal stability make it suitable for high-temperature processes like ceramic glazing.

Main Applications

In ceramics, MnCO3 acts as a colorant and flux, producing brown and black hues in tiles and tableware. The agriculture sector uses it as a manganese supplement in fertilizers to correct soil deficiencies. Its largest modern application is in lithium-ion battery production, where it serves as a precursor for lithium manganese oxide (LMO) cathodes. Other niche uses include animal feed additives, water treatment chemicals, and glass manufacturing. The rise of electric vehicles has driven demand for battery-grade MnCO3 with ultra-low impurity levels (<50 ppm heavy metals).

Safety and Storage

While manganese carbonate is generally low-risk, prolonged dust inhalation may cause respiratory irritation. OSHA recommends a TWA limit of 5 mg/m³ for manganese compounds. Storage requires moisture-proof containers (e.g., lined drums) in well-ventilated areas, separated from acids to prevent CO2 release. Decomposition products (MnO, CO2) require fume hoods during high-temperature processing. Spills should be vacuumed rather than swept to avoid airborne particles. Suppliers typically provide Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) compliant with GHS standards.

B2B Procurement Guide

Industrial buyers should prioritize purity (≥99.5% for battery applications), verified by ICP-MS testing. Particle size distribution (D50 2–10 µm) affects reactivity in downstream processes. Heavy metal content (Pb, Cd, As) must meet RoHS and REACH standards for European markets. Bulk pricing varies by order volume and purity. Container-load shipments (20+ tons) often qualify for 10–15% discounts. Reliable suppliers include Umicore, Prince International, and regional producers in China (e.g., Hunan QingChong Manganese). Request Certificates of Analysis (CoA) for each batch.

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