Mn5PO42OH2

Mn₅PO₄₂(OH)₂ is a rare and complex phosphate mineral belonging to the group of phosphates and arsenates. It was first identified in 2012 at the **Tsumeb Mine** in Namibia, where it was found as a secondary mineral in copper-rich hydrothermal veins. The mineral forms as a result of low-temperature oxidation and weathering processes involving manganese, phosphorus, and water.

The chemical composition of Mn₅PO₄₂(OH)₂ consists of manganese (Mn), phosphorus (P), oxygen (O), and hydrogen (H). Its structure is characterized by layers of manganese-oxygen polyhedra linked by phosphate groups, with hydroxyl (OH) groups filling interlayer spaces. The mineral typically appears as small, dark brown to black crystals or granular aggregates, often associated with other manganese phosphates such as **strengite** and **bobierrite**.

Mn₅PO₄₂(OH)₂ is classified under the **NASA Mineralogy Database** and is of interest to mineralogists due to its unique crystal chemistry. Its formation is linked to the alteration of primary manganese-bearing minerals in oxidizing environments. While not commonly encountered, it serves as an example of how complex phosphate minerals can develop under specific geological conditions.

Due to its rarity, Mn₅PO₄₂(OH)₂ is primarily studied in research settings rather than having industrial or commercial applications. Its discovery contributes to the understanding of secondary mineral formation in hydrothermal systems and provides insights into the behavior of manganese in low-temperature geological processes.