Manganese Oxide

Brief Overview

Manganese(II) oxide is an inorganic compound with chemical formula MnO. It forms green crystals. The compound is produced on a large scale as a component of fertilizers and food additives.

Manufacturing Process

MnO occurs in nature as the rare mineral manganosite.
Commercially it is prepared by reduction of MnO2 with hydrogen, carbon monoxide or methane, e.g.:

MnO2 + H2 → MnO + H2O
MnO2 + CO → MnO + CO2

Together with manganese sulfate, MnO is a component of fertilizers and food additives. Many thousands of tons are consumed annually for this purpose. Other uses include: a catalyst in the manufacture of allyl alcohol, ceramics, paints, colored glass, bleaching tallow and textile printing.