Spodumene ( LiAlSi2O6 ) - Discovery, Occurrence, Properties and Applications of Spodumene

Jul 20 2006

Chemical Formula

LiAlSi2O6

Topics Covered

Background

Discovery

Occurrence

Chemical Analysis

Properties

Applications

Background

Spodumene is a lithium aluminosilicate that belongs to the pyroxene family of minerals. Spodumene has the chemical formula LiAlSi2O6. It is the most abundant lithium ore.

Discovery

Spodumene was first discovered around the year 1800 by the Brazilian scientist Jose Binifacio de Andrada e Silva while in Sweden. He identified it along with the mineral petalite.

Occurrence

Spodumene is found in North America, Brazil, USSR, Spain, parts of Africa such as Zimbabwe, China, Portugal, Argentina and Australia.

Chemical Analysis

Lithium

3.73%

Li2O

8.03%

Aluminium

14.50%

Al2O3

27.40%

Silicon

30.18%

SiO2

64.58%

Oxygen

51.59%

 

 

Total

100%

Total Oxides

100%

Properties

Specific gravity

 

3.0-3.2g/cm3

Hardness (mohs)

 

6.5-7.0

Refractive index

 

1.653-1.882

Applications

Spodumene is used for:

•         A flux in ceramics and glass

•         Production of lithium metal

 

Primary author: AZoM.com

 

Tell Us What You Think

Do you have a review, update or anything you would like to add to this article?

Leave your feedback
(Logout)
Your comment type
Submit

Related Books

  • Optically Anomalous Crystals

Sponsored Content

Editorial Highlights

The Current State of the Global Semiconductor Market

The Current State of the Global Semiconductor Market

The global semiconductor market has entered an exciting period. Demand for chip technology is both driving the industry as well as hindering it, with current chip shortages predicted to last for some time. Current trends will likely shape the future of the industry, which is set to continue to show

How are Graphene Batteries Made?

How are Graphene Batteries Made?

The primary distinction between graphene-based batteries and solid-state batteries lies in the composition of either electrode. Although the cathode is commonly changed, carbon allotropes can also be employed in fabricating anodes.

Newsletters you may be interested in

See all Newsletters »

Terms

While we only use edited and approved content for Azthena answers, it may on occasions provide incorrect responses. Please confirm any data provided with the related suppliers or authors. We do not provide medical advice, if you search for medical information you must always consult a medical professional before acting on any information provided.

Your questions, but not your email details will be shared with OpenAI and retained for 30 days in accordance with their privacy principles.

Please do not ask questions that use sensitive or confidential information.

Read the full Terms & Conditions.

Provide Feedback