Nano MNO2 production from fine-grained and low-grade manganese ore using a mixture of citric acid and molasses as reductant

This study was carried out to investigate the production of manganese nanomaterials by enriching fine-grained and low-grade manganese ores. Ore was taken from Balikesir region in Turkey. Experimental studies were discussed in two different stages. In the first stage, the ore was enriched by a leaching method and optimum enrichment conditions were determined. For this, different mixtures of acids and reducing agents were used. The optimum Mn dissolution was 120 minutes. 97.05% Mn dissolution efficiency was obtained from the ore containing 29% MnO under a 120 minute leaching time, 600 rpm stirring speed, 2 M HCl and HNO3 (3:1) concentration, 0.5 M citric acid + 10% molasses reducers and at 90 degrees C. In the second stage, the Mn solution dissolved under optimum conditions was photo-reduced by exposure to sunlight and then MnCO3 was produced using Na2CO3. The produced MnCO3 was roasted and 200 nm MnO2 nanorods were obtained.