Manganese carbonate (MnCO3) is a white crystalline powder that is insoluble in water but soluble in acids. It is a light beige powder, odorless, and tasteless, which slowly oxidizes in contact with air, a process that is accelerated by the presence of water and increased temperature. Manganese carbonate is used in the preparation of other manganese salts and pure pharmaceutical-grade manganese carbonate is used in medicine for treating anemia.
In the industrial sector, manganese carbonate is used as an additive to plant fertilizers to cure manganese-deficient crops. It is also used in ceramics as a glaze colorant and flux, and in concrete stains. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is utilized in medicines as a hematinic. Additionally, it is used in health foods, in welding rods, and as an animal feed additive.
Manganese carbonate is also used in the production of magnetic materials, synthetic manganese dioxide, and organic manganous salts. It serves as a paint dryer and is used in porcelain/ceramic glaze and electrodes. In the production of dry-cell batteries and for ferrites, manganese carbonate is used to decompose, releasing CO2 at 200 °C to give manganese(II) oxide.
Regarding safety, excessive exposure to manganese carbonate powder may result in irritation; prolonged and repeated inhalation may cause inflammation to the nervous system. Inhalation or ingestion may lead to a nervous system disorder. It is important to handle manganese carbonate with care to prevent health risks associated with long-term exposure.
For storage, manganese carbonate should be kept in a cool, dry place to prevent deliquescence and should be stored away from moisture and in a well-sealed container to maintain its quality and effectiveness for various applications.