Used as a catalyst in the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, manganese dioxide speeds up the breakdown into water and oxygen without being consumed in the reaction. It is commonly employed in laboratory settings for oxygen generation. In dry-cell batteries, such as alkaline and zinc-carbon batteries, it acts as a depolarizer to prevent hydrogen buildup and maintain consistent electrical output. It also serves in the production of ferrites for electronic components due to its magnetic properties. In glass and ceramic manufacturing, it functions as a colorant and decolorizer, removing green tints caused by iron impurities or adding black, brown, or purple hues. Additionally, it is used in wastewater treatment to remove iron and hydrogen sulfide from water supplies. Manganese dioxide is also employed as an oxidant in organic synthesis for selective oxidations, such as converting alcohols to aldehydes, and in some cleaning products like rust removers due to its oxidizing properties.