Lithium carbonate is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Li2CO3 and a molecular weight of 73.89. It is a colorless monoclinic crystal, slightly soluble in water and dilute acid, and insoluble in ethanol and acetone. Carbonates with lower thermal stability than other elements of the same group in the periodic table, do not deliquescence in air, and can be obtained by adding lithium sulfate or lithium oxide solution to sodium carbonate. By introducing carbon dioxide into its aqueous solution, it can be converted into acid salts, which undergo hydrolysis when boiled. Used as raw materials for ceramics, glass, ferrites, etc., and for spraying silver paste on components.

Lithium carbonate appears as a white powder or small crystals at room temperature, with no obvious odor and a light texture. The density is about 2.11 grams per cubic centimeter, and decomposition occurs at high temperatures. This substance is slightly soluble in cold water, and its solubility gradually decreases with increasing water temperature. In hot water at 100 ℃, its solubility actually decreases by nearly a quarter compared to cold water. This special solubility characteristic makes it commonly used in industrial production for reaction control under specific temperature conditions.

In terms of chemical stability, lithium carbonate performs well in dry environments and is not easily deteriorated after long-term storage. When the temperature exceeds 618 ℃, it begins to decompose, producing lithium oxide and releasing carbon dioxide gas. This substance is prone to react with strong acids such as hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid, generating corresponding lithium salts and producing a large number of bubbles. The laboratory commonly uses dilute hydrochloric acid to test for the presence of lithium carbonate, and observing vigorous bubbles can be used as a preliminary judgment.

In the field of battery manufacturing, lithium carbonate is an important raw material for lithium-ion battery cathode materials, which directly affects the charging and discharging efficiency and cycle life of the battery.