Commercially it is prepared by reduction of MnO2 with hydrogen, carbon monoxide or methane, e.g.,::MnO2 + H2 → MnO + H2O:MnO2 + CO → MnO + CO2MnO can also be prepared by decarbonation of the carbonate::MnCO3 → MnO + CO2This calcining process is conducted anaerobically to prevent formation of Mn2O3.
Pri temperaturah pod 118 K je antiferomagneten.