What Is Electrolytic Manganese Flake?
Electrolytic manganese flake is a high-purity manganese metal produced by electrolysis of a manganese sulfate solution, with commercial grades typically specified at 99.7% or 99.8% minimum manganese. It is used as a manganese addition in steelmaking, in aluminum alloys, and in the production of specialty alloys and manganese chemicals. Because of its high purity and flake form, it dissolves readily and introduces minimal impurities, which makes it the preferred manganese source for demanding applications such as high-grade stainless steel and non-ferrous alloys.
European Market Prices on July 29
The table below shows the European electrolytic manganese market price published on July 29, quoted in US dollars per ton.
| Product | Specification | Lowest Price, USD/ton | Highest Price, USD/ton | Price Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrolytic Manganese | 99.70% | 1975 | 1995 | European Market |
The European reference range of 1975-1995 USD per ton reflects a stable trading session, with no change recorded for the day in this snapshot.
China Export Prices from Tianjin Port
China export prices for electrolytic manganese and manganese ingot, quoted in US dollars per ton, are shown below for the same July 29 snapshot.
| Product | Brand or Grade | Quote, USD/ton | Change | Sold Price, USD/ton | Remark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrolytic Manganese Metal | 99.70% | 1940-1950 | Up 10 | 1940-1950 | Tianjin Port, FOB |
| Manganese Ingot | 95# | 1995-2005 | Up 10 | 1975-1995 | Tianjin Port, FOB |
| Manganese Ingot | 97# | 2005-2015 | Up 10 | 2005 | Tianjin Port, FOB |
On this date, export quotes for electrolytic manganese and manganese ingot moved up by about 10 US dollars per ton, with the highest-priced grade, manganese ingot 97#, quoted at 2005-2015 USD per ton FOB Tianjin Port.
What Drives Electrolytic Manganese Prices
Electrolytic manganese prices are driven by production cost and market balance. Electricity is a major input in the electrolytic process, so regional power prices strongly influence the cost floor. Ore prices, sulfuric acid and other consumables add to the cost base, while steel demand and the operating rates of manganese producers shape the balance between supply and demand. Export prices are also affected by exchange rates, freight and port handling charges. Because these variables move frequently, price tables like the ones above are valid only for the stated publication date and should be read as directional reference levels rather than firm quotations.
How to Read Price Tables and Verify Current Quotes
When reading manganese price tables, check the product, the purity or grade, the quotation basis, and the date. European market prices and China FOB prices are different bases: the European range reflects delivered market levels in Europe, while the FOB Tianjin quote reflects the price at the Chinese port before freight and insurance. To obtain a firm price, contact suppliers with the required grade, quantity, destination and delivery timing, and request a written quotation valid for a defined period. Treating published snapshots as one input among several, including recent transactions and inventory levels, gives a more reliable picture of the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between electrolytic manganese flake and manganese ingot? Electrolytic manganese flake is produced by electrolysis at high purity, typically 99.7% or higher, while manganese ingot is a cast form of manganese metal available in grades such as 95# and 97#.
Are the prices in this article current? No. They are a point-in-time snapshot published on July 29 and should be treated as reference levels; current quotes must be confirmed with suppliers.
Why is the European price higher than the China FOB price? The European market price reflects delivered market levels including freight, duty and regional supply-demand conditions, while the FOB Tianjin quote covers the goods at the Chinese port only.
What does 99.7% min mean in a manganese specification? It means the manganese content is guaranteed to be at least 99.7% by weight, which is the minimum purity for this commercial grade.
Why did export quotes move up 10 USD per ton on July 29? The up-10 change reflects the daily adjustment in this snapshot, driven by supply-demand balance and cost conditions; such daily moves are normal in manganese pricing.