Sinai unveils its hidden treasure… Manganese illuminates its sky

In the enchanting corners of this magical island overlooking the Red Sea with its sparkling eyes, Egypt’s treasures and hidden natural wealth shine. It is Sinai, the enchanting oasis rich in a deep history and culture, preserving its hidden treasures beneath its golden sands and in its clear skies

The natural and geographical world of Sinai grants it an exceptional location, making it an ideal place to embrace valuable mineral resources. Among these hidden treasures, manganese ore stands out with its brilliance and economic significance

Manganese illuminates the sky of Sinai

Since ancient times, minerals and mining ores have held a special place in the hearts of people. They are not just elements hidden in the depths of the earth; they are treasures that enrich nations and prosper civilizations

Manganese, a noble chemical element, is a solid mineral with a shiny silver-gray color. It possesses unique ferromagnetic properties, and its ions give it distinctive colors, making it intriguing in the world of elements. This unique mineral has a long history of discovery and diverse uses in various industries worldwide.

Uses of Manganese

Manganese is used in various industries, such as the manufacturing of marine engine propellers, steam turbine blades, electronic circuits, and metal tools used in kitchens. It is also used in the production of screws, coins, and shaving tools

In addition, manganese is used in the production of fluorescent lamps and is a component of agricultural fertilizers and some animal foods. The role of manganese is not limited to these industries; it extends to the production of alloys containing aluminum, metal containers, and tin foil. Manganese also participates in the soap and shampoo industry.

Manganese compounds are used in a variety of industries. For example, manganese dioxide is used as a drying agent or catalyst in the production of dyes and varnishes. It is used as a color remover in the glass industry and is part of the composition of dry batteries

Historically

Manganese was discovered in 1774 by the Swedish scientist Scheele. In the same year, his colleague Johann Gahn isolated the element. The word “manganese” comes from the Latin language, meaning “magnetic.” This is because when manganese combines with aluminum, copper, or antimony to form alloys, these alloys exhibit magnetic properties.

Occurrences of Manganese in Egypt

Manganese ores are found in areas such as southern Sinai and the Eastern Desert, with minor accumulations in the Western Desert. Sinai proudly bears the title “Egypt’s treasure” as manganese ore sparkles in its sky

Manganese ores are also found in southern Sinai in the Um Bogma area, appearing as lenses associated with dolomitic limestone rocks in the Middle Carboniferous era. This area has reserves of about 3 million tons and is currently exploited by the state-owned Sinai Manganese Company, which replaced the British Sinai Company more than 66 years ago

Manganese ore deposits are also present in the Sharm El Sheikh area in southern Sinai, accompanying iron in rocks such as chert and mirabilite from the Cretaceous period. The manganese content in this area is about 45%, and the estimated reserve is around 30,000 tons, according to documented information from the Mineral Resources Authority

In the Eastern Desert, manganese ores are found in areas such as Wadi Malaak and Aish Al-Malahah. These ores appear as veins associated with basement rocks and Nubian sandstone rocks. The manganese dioxide content in this area ranges from 94.5% to 143.58%

The presence of manganese in these areas indicates Egypt’s importance as one of the main regions in the Middle East containing this strategic mineral. Thanks to these hidden treasures, Egypt enhances its position as a significant investment destination, paving the way for sustainable economic development and future prosperity