Lithium carbonate Li2CO3 is a colorless crystalline substance. It practically does not dissolve in organic solvents. Solubility in water limited to: 1.5g in 100g water at 0 ° C; 1.26g @ 25 ° C; 0.99g @ 50 ° C; 0.83g @ 75 ° C. Solubility increases slightly in the presence of salts of other alkali metals and ammonium (with the exception of carbonates).
The crystal lattice of Li2CO3 is monoclinic, a = 0.839 nm, b = 0.500 nm, c = 0.621 nm, β = 114.5 °, z = 4, space group C2 / c.
Lithium carbonate has pharmacological activity, affects the central nervous system.
Receiving.
In industry, lithium carbonate is obtained by acting with alkali metal carbonates (Na or K) on soluble lithium salts LiCl, LiNO3, Li2SO4 at 90 ° C.
Li2SO4 + Na2CO3 → Li2CO3 ↓ + Na2SO4
Application.
As a starting material for the synthesis of other lithium derivatives;
as a component of compositions in the production of ceramics, sitalls, electrical insulating porcelain, heat-resistant ceramic coatings (including for combustion chambers and jet engine nozzles);
as a compound of glazes, enamels, acid-resistant coatings, primers for aluminum, cast iron, sheet steel;
as a component of glasses to give strength, resistance to corrosion. Glasses with the addition of lithium carbonate have increased permeability to ultraviolet radiation;
in the aluminum industry as a flux. The addition of lithium carbonate increases the productivity of aluminum electrolysers;
as a flux for brazing aluminum and magnesium;
as a component of pyrotechnic compositions;
as a component of fuel cells;
in the cement industry as an additive that accelerates the hardening of cement mortars;
in psychiatry as a pharmacological agent for the treatment of depression and manic-depressive psychoses;