Lithium carbonate

Lithium carbonate is an inorganic compound, the lithium salt of carbonate with the formula Li₂CO₃. This white salt is widely used in the processing of metal oxides.

For the treatment of bipolar disorder, it is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most important medication needed in a basic health system.

Uses

Lithium carbonate is an important industrial chemical. It forms low-melting fluxes with silica and other materials. Glasses derived from lithium carbonate are useful in ovenware. Lithium carbonate is a common ingredient in both low-fire and high-fire ceramic glaze. Its alkaline properties are conducive to changing the state of metal oxide colorants in glaze particularly red iron oxide (Fe₂O₃). Cement sets more rapidly when prepared with lithium carbonate, and is useful for tile adhesives. When added to aluminium trifluoride, it forms LiF which gives a superior electrolyte for the processing of aluminium. It is also used in the manufacture of most lithium-ion battery cathodes, which are made of lithium cobalt oxide.