[SMM Science Popularization] An Article on Manganese Carbonate Ore - Characteristics, Reserves, and Uses

1. Formation and characteristics of manganese carbonate ore: Manganese carbonate ore primarily forms in deep underground rocks, with its main component being manganese carbonate, also known as rhodochrosite. This type of ore belongs to the carbonate class and is easily distinguishable from other ores. It typically appears in the form of lumps, granules, blocks, or concretions, with colors ranging from grayish-black to rose, and turns dark brown after oxidation. Its hardness ranges from 3.5 to 4.5, and its density from 3.6 to 3.7.

2. Reserves and distribution of manganese carbonate ore in China: China boasts abundant reserves of manganese carbonate ore, which is mainly distributed in deep underground areas. The surface parts form manganese oxide ores with a metallic luster due to oxidation and leaching. China's manganese ore reserves total 790 million mt, with economically recoverable reserves accounting for 42%.

The main distribution areas of manganese carbonate ore in south China are as follows: 1. Guangxi. Guangxi is one of the regions with the most abundant manganese ore resources in China, with reserves ranking first nationwide (approximately 120 million mt), accounting for 43% of the country's total reserves. The manganese carbonate ore in this region is predominantly sedimentary deposits, with relatively high ore grades (manganese content over approximately 20%) and stable ore layers that are easy to mine. 2. Guizhou. Guizhou ranks second in manganese ore reserves nationwide (approximately 50 million mt), accounting for 18% of the country's total reserves. The manganese carbonate ore in this region is also mainly sedimentary, with thick ore layers and stable grades. 3. Hunan. Xiangtan Manganese Mine: Located in Xiangtan City, Hunan Province, the ore is distributed in layers, with the main manganese-bearing minerals being rhodochrosite and kutnahorite. The grade is approximately 20%, belonging to marine sedimentary deposits. Dongxiangqiao, Yongzhou City: Manganese ore from the Permian Dangchong Formation has been discovered here, with reserves of approximately 2.795 million mt. Although the grade is relatively low (4.5%–10%), some surface-weathered parts have formed manganese oxide ores, which have been put into production. 4. Other regions. Sichuan, Yunnan, Chongqing, and other places also have small amounts of manganese carbonate ore distribution, but on a relatively small scale.

3. Uses of manganese carbonate ore: Manganese carbonate ore in China is mainly used to produce electrolytic manganese, namely electrolytic manganese metal. Its processing flow involves grinding manganese carbonate ore into manganese powder, fully dissolving it in sulphuric acid, and then producing manganese sheets through electrolysis. During this process, high-purity manganese carbonate concentrate can be prepared for the production of manganese sulphate, electrolytic manganese metal, active manganese dioxide, EMD, and manganese tetroxide, among others.

In addition, manganese carbonate ore is also used to manufacture magnetic materials, serving as one of the main components of soft ferrites. It can also be used as a desulfurization catalyst, enamel pigment, varnish drier, as well as a raw material for other manganese salts and feed additives. Manganese carbonate is also commonly used as a fertilizer additive to treat manganese-deficient plants, and is applied in health supplements and the glazing of ceramic products.