Li2CO3

Li2CO3, commonly called lithium carbonate, is an inorganic salt that consists of two lithium ions and the carbonate ion. It is a white, odorless crystalline solid that is moderately soluble in water (about 1.3 g per 100 g water at 20 °C; solubility increases with temperature). It decomposes upon heating to lithium oxide and carbon dioxide, with a decomposition point around 723 °C.

In aqueous solutions, Li2CO3 forms mildly alkaline solutions due to the carbonate ion.

Preparation and occurrence: Commercial lithium carbonate is produced from lithium-containing brines and hard rock minerals. In brine processing, lithium chloride brines are treated with sodium carbonate to precipitate Li2CO3: 2 LiCl + Na2CO3 → Li2CO3 ↓ + 2 NaCl. Li2CO3 is also a feedstock for many lithium compounds used in industry. The compound is not typically found as a pure natural mineral; lithium carbonate occurs mainly in brine deposits and is manufactured from them.

Uses: It is used as a flux in glass and ceramics and as a chemical precursor for lithium compounds, including lithium metal and lithium salts used in ceramics, polymers, and lithium-ion batteries. Pharmaceutical use: lithium carbonate is employed as a prescription mood stabilizer in the treatment of bipolar disorder and some other psychiatric conditions.

Safety: Li2CO3 is irritant to eyes and skin; oral ingestion can cause gastrointestinal irritation. It should be handled with appropriate PPE, stored in a dry, tightly closed container, and kept away from acids, which release carbon dioxide.