Property
It exhibits a diverse range of colors. The theoretical content of Li2O(lithium oxide) is as high as 8.03%, while the actual content typically ranges from 2.91% to 7.66%. It often contains trace amounts of elements such as sodium (Na), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg), and occasionally incorporates impurities like chromium (Cr), cesium (Cs), helium (He), and rare earth elements.
It possesses good chemical stability and is not prone to chemical reactions in ordinary chemical environments. However, it can undergo decomposition and other reactions under specific conditions such as high temperatures and strong acids. For example, when calcined to approximately 1000°C, it rapidly transforms into the β-spodumene form and exhibits thermal cracking properties.
Applications
Spodumene is the primary raw material for extracting lithium, and lithium is a key material in the production of lithium-ion batteries.
In glass manufacturing, spodumene can be used as a flux to lower the melting point of glass while enhancing the glass’s transparency, mechanical strength, and thermal shock resistance.
In the ceramic field, spodumene can improve the thermal stability, corrosion resistance, and mechanical strength of ceramics, and also reduce the firing temperature of ceramics.
Additionally, spodumene can be used to produce various lithium compounds, such as lithium carbonate and lithium hydroxide.
