Top 5 Applications of Lithium Carbonate

Lithium carbonate is an inorganic compound with the formula Li₂CO₃. The salt exists only in the anhydrous form and its solubility in water is low relative to other lithium salts. The compound is produced by combining lithium peroxide with carbon dioxide. This reaction is also used in certain air purifiers to absorb carbon dioxide: 2 Li₂O₂ + 2 CO₂ → 2 Li₂CO₃ + O₂. Here are a few applications of lithium carbonate:

1.       Medicinal Uses

Lithium carbonate is used to treat a manic depressive disorder (bipolar disorder). It works to stabilize the mood and reduce extremes in behavior. This is done by restoring the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. This medication can decrease how often manic episodes occur and decrease the symptoms of manic episodes.

2.       Glass and Ceramics

Lithium carbonate is used in the preparation of lithium aluminosilicate glass-ceramics. These ceramics have low thermal coefficients of expansion, which allow their use over a wide temperature range. Small amounts of lithium carbonate are also used as fluxes to reduce the melting point of silica, particularly for glasses used in ovenware.

3.       Fireworks

Lithium carbonate burns red when lit on fire. This is why lithium carbonate is used as a red dye in pyrotechnic displays. You can create special pyrotechnic displays by mixing ionic salts including lithium carbonate with flammable liquids.

4.       Manufacturing

Lithium carbonate is used to manufacture building material and wood preservatives. The substance is also used in the manufacturing of automotive care components. Several chemicals and veterinarian drugs are also manufactured using lithium carbonate. The compound is also used in the manufacturing of various oils and greases.

5.       Other Applications

Lithium carbonate is a component of general adhesives and binding agents. The compound is often used outside the home including outdoor toys such as sandboxes, canopies, and shelters, garden statues. The substance is also used in arts and crafts supplies such as painting, beading/jewelry making, scrapbooking, needlecrafts, clay, etc.

If you’re looking to buy lithium carbonate, AgileNobel is your place to go. In addition to lithium carbonate, the company also offers other chemicals including spodumene, humidity indicator cards, temperature data loggers, desiccants, lithium hydroxide, and many more.