In electro-chemistry, manganese is an effective element. It is used in higher density batteries. Or else nickel-cobalt formulation is used. These are used in smaller amounts than other elements.

The power pack batteries are prone to fires and are not considered stable, despite being able to take the vehicles further.

There are other combinations too — lithium-nickel-manganese oxide (LNMO). The use of manganese makes the battery of limited life cycle and high resistance. It means the battery gets too hot and the voltage drops. CATL’s version (and others) seem to have overcome this.

The demand for manganese is likely to be up. There is no shortage of Mn. It will be an important component for batteries. South Africa tops the list of producers, followed by China, Australia, Brazil, Gabon and India.