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Lithium carbonate is a chemical compound used in a wide range of application areas. As a white, crystalline powder, it is an important raw material for industry and also finds diverse uses in the household. In this blog post, we want to take a closer look at the properties and application possibilities of lithium carbonate.

The Properties of Lithium Carbonate

Lithium carbonate, also known by the chemical formula Li2CO3, is an inorganic compound consisting of lithium, carbon, and oxygen. It is a white, crystalline powder that is odorless and tasteless. With a density of 2.11 g/cm³, it is a relatively light salt.

One of the most important properties of lithium carbonate is its solubility in water. It dissolves only moderately in water but is significantly more soluble than other lithium compounds such as lithium chloride. This property makes lithium carbonate a versatile substance.

Furthermore, lithium carbonate is characterized by high thermal stability. It melts only at around 723 °C and decomposes only at temperatures above 1300 °C. This makes it significantly more heat-resistant than many other salts.

Another important characteristic of lithium carbonate is its basicity. As a salt of a weak acid (carbonic acid) and a strong base (lithium hydroxide), it reacts as a base. The pH value of aqueous solutions of lithium carbonate lies in the slightly basic range.

Applications of Lithium Carbonate in Industry and Household

The diverse properties of lithium carbonate make it an extremely versatile substance used in numerous industrial sectors and even in the household. Here are some of the most important areas of use:

Ceramic and Glass Industry

In the ceramic and glass industry, lithium carbonate is an important raw material. It serves as a flux, lowering the melting point of glass and ceramics, thus facilitating processing. Additionally, it improves the chemical resistance and hardness of the final products.

Batteries and Accumulators

Lithium carbonate is a central component of lithium-ion batteries, which are used in a wide variety of electrical devices such as smartphones, laptops, or electric cars. Here, it serves as a starting material for the production of lithium compounds used in the electrolytes and cathode materials of these batteries.

Medicine and Pharmacy

In medicine, lithium carbonate is used as an active pharmaceutical ingredient for treating bipolar disorders. Due to its mood-lifting effect, it is used in psychiatry. Furthermore, it plays a role in the production of medications and dietary supplements.

Chemical Industry

As a basic chemical, lithium carbonate is an important starting material for the production of a variety of other lithium compounds. These, in turn, are used in the manufacture of lubricating greases, ceramics, glasses, enamels, and many other products.

Household

Lithium carbonate can also be used diversely in the household. For example, it can be used as a cleaning agent for surfaces, for removing limescale deposits, or as a water softener. Due to its basic properties, it is also suitable for neutralizing acids.

Conclusion: Lithium Carbonate - A Versatile Helper

Lithium carbonate is a chemical compound with a multitude of useful properties. Whether in industry or the household—this salt finds use in numerous application areas. Its range of uses extends from glass production to batteries and medicine. With its versatility, stability, and solubility, lithium carbonate is a true all-rounder among chemical compounds.