Collection: Manganese

Manganese is a chemical element with the symbol Mn and atomic number 25. It is a silvery-grey, hard, and brittle transition metal that plays an important role in both industry and biology.

🔬 Chemical and physical properties

Symbol : Mn
Atomic number : 25
Atomic mass : approximately 54.94 u
Appearance : gray-white metal, fragile
Natural state : often found combined with other elements in ores such as pyrolusite (MnO₂)
Oxidation : various forms (+2 to +7), the most common being +2, +4, and +7

🏭 Industrial uses

Manganese is essential in many areas:

Metallurgy :
- Alloys : Used in steels to improve their strength and hardness (e.g., manganese steel).
- Desulfurization : It removes sulfur and oxygen during steel production.
Batteries :
- Used in alkaline batteries (e.g., manganese dioxide batteries) and some lithium-ion batteries.
Pigments and ceramics :
- Colored compounds used in glasses, enamels, and paints.

🧬 Biological role

Manganese is an essential trace element for living beings:

Involved in the functioning of enzymes, particularly those related to the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids and amino acids.
Necessary for bone formation and a healthy nervous system.
It is found naturally in foods such as whole grains, nuts, legumes, green leafy vegetables.

⚠️ Toxicity

In low doses , it is vital for the body.
In high doses (especially by inhalation in an industrial setting), it can cause a neurological condition called manganism , with symptoms similar to those of Parkinson's disease.