Manganese Compounds
Manganese is an essential element in the human body, playing a critical role in growth, development and metabolic processes that take place within cells. Manganese compounds have a variety of uses, ranging from industrial and agricultural applications to nutritional supplements and medical treatments.
Industrial Applications
Manganese is a key component of some alloys that are used in the manufacture of construction materials, automotive parts and components, tools and electronics. Alloys containing manganese are highly resistant to corrosion and wear and have good strength and ductility. Without manganese, modern electronics would not be possible as a variety of specialized alloys are needed for creating components like semiconductors, wires and capacitors. Manganese compounds are also used as catalysts in the production of petrochemicals, plastics, dyes and paints.
Agricultural Applications
Manganese compounds are essential for the growth of healthy crops, as the element plays a critical role in the production of chlorophyll and the building of plant cell walls. A lack of manganese in soil can lead to visible deficiencies in plants, including stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Manganese is applied as a mixture of manganese sulfate and other compounds before planting, and can then be supplemented with additional inputs during the growing season.
Nutritional Supplements
Manganese is an important trace element in the human diet, as it is essential for proper bone and cartilage formation, neurological development, and proper functioning of the kidneys, liver, pancreas and other organs. Due to widespread soil deficiencies, many people do not get enough manganese in their diets, and supplements can help make up the difference. Dietary supplements usually take the form of manganese sulfate capsules or tablets and can also be found in some multivitamin formulations.
Medical Treatments
Manganese compounds can also be used to treat some medical conditions. For example, manganese sulfate is used intravenously to treat adult onset type 2 diabetes and to slow the deterioration of the eyesight in people with a type of glaucoma caused by elevated pressure within the eye. Manganese compounds are also used as a way of providing supplemental Mn to those suffering from anaemia and kidney disease.
Manganese compounds have many uses in different industries, including agriculture, electronics, construction, and medical treatments. The perfect balance of Mn in the human diet is essential for proper growth, development, and metabolic processes. Due to widespread soil deficiencies, many people do not get enough manganese in their diets and must take supplements to make up the difference. Without manganese, modern electronics would not be possible and agricultural productivity would suffer. Consequently, the importance of manganese compounds in modern life cannot be overlooked.
