Spent Zn-C Dry Cells as a source of Manganese

Abstract

This paper presents a possible way of enhancing the availability of raw materials for our local battery industry. Spent Zn-C dry cells were collected, pretreated and subjected to various processes like grinding, leaching and alkalization. The method used is called hydrometallurgical method which allows for easy separation of the various components of the spent cell. Manganese dioxide was extracted from the spent dry cells (Zn-C) and hydrogen gas was passed over it to produce manganese metal. From the process 5.38kg/day was recovered. This shows about 91% of manganese recovered