Research Progress on the Safe Disposal and Comprehensive Utilization of Electrolytic Manganese Slag

Abstract

Manganese is an indispensable strategic resource in the steel, chemical, electronics, and new energy sectors. As the primary solid waste generated during the production of electrolytic manganese metal, electrolytic manganese slag accumulates in massive quantities, yet its comprehensive utilization rate remains below 10 %. This slag is rich in characteristic pollutants such as high concentrations of manganese ions (Mn²⁺), ammonia nitrogen (NH₄⁺-N), and sulfates (SO₄²⁻), posing a severe challenge to the ecological environment. In recent years, technologies for the safe disposal of electrolytic manganese slag have primarily included water washing, high-temperature solidification, and chemical solidification; these methods can effectively reduce its leaching toxicity. In terms of resource recovery, research and applications have expanded into multiple directions, such as the production of construction materials (cement, concrete, unburned bricks, and roadbed materials), the development of agricultural fertilizers, the recovery of valuable elements, and the synthesis of high-value-added products.