Innovative Techniques for Electrolytic Manganese Residue Utilization: A Review

Abstract

Electrolytic Manganese Residue (EMR) is a secondary material generated during the process of manganese production, poses significant environmental challenges, including land consumption and contamination threats to soil and water bodies due to its heavy metal content, soluble manganese, ammonia nitrogen, and disposal issues. This review thoroughly examines EMR, emphasizing its metallurgical principles, environmental impacts, and sustainable treatment methods. We critically analyze various approaches for EMR management, including resource recovery, utilization of construction materials, and advanced treatment techniques to mitigate its environmental challenges. Through an extensive review of recent EMR-related literature and case studies, we highlight innovative strategies for EMR valorization, such as the extraction of valuable metals, conversion into supplementary cementitious materials, and its application in environmental remediation. Our findings suggest that integrating metallurgical principles with environmental engineering practices can unlock EMR’s potential as a resource, contributing to the circular economy and reducing the environmental hazards associated with its disposal. This study aims to deepen the understanding of EMR’s comprehensive utilization, offering insights into future research directions and practical applications for achieving sustainable management of electrolytic manganese waste. Finally, we propose some recommendations to address the issue of EMR, intending to offer guidance for the proper disposal and effective exploitation of EMR.