Lithium carbonate

Lithium carbonate is an inorganic compound, the lithium salt of carbonate with the formula Li
₂CO
₃. This white salt is widely used in the processing of metal oxides and treatment of mood disorders.

Lithium carbonate is an important industrial chemical. It forms low-melting fluxes with silica and other materials. Glasses derived from lithium carbonate are useful in ovenware. Lithium carbonate is a common ingredient in both low-fire and high-fire ceramic glaze. Its alkaline properties are conducive to changing the state of metal oxide colorants in glaze particularly red iron oxide (Fe
₂O
₃). Cement sets more rapidly when prepared with lithium carbonate, and is useful for tile adhesives. When added to aluminium trifluoride, it forms LiF which gives a superior electrolyte for the processing of aluminium.It is also used in the manufacture of most lithium-ion battery cathodes, which are made of lithium cobalt oxide.