Reductive acid leaching of manganese dioxide with glucose: Identification of oxidation derivatives of glucose

The oxidation of glucose during the reductive leaching of pure MnO2 and manganese ore in sulphuric acid at 90 °C MnO2 was investigated. The aim was to identify the derivatives and the chemical pathway of glucose oxidation. Organic derivatives were monitored by HPLC using an Aminex HPX-78H column and UV detection. Chromatographic patterns of leaching solutions showed that major compound formed was formic acid. Minor quantities of glycolic, glyceric and traces of gluconic acids were identified. Results suggest that during the leaching reaction, the carbon chain of glucose is shortened by detachment of one carbon atom as formic acid.