A project has been set-up to increase the understanding of the role of manganese in various aluminium alloy systems. The size and distribution of Mn-containing phases effect the microstructural evolution during processing. The effect of selected thermal treatments on the precipitation of manganese has been investigated in a series of high-purity Al-Mn (0 - 2 wt% Mn) alloys. In this paper the effect of alloying level on the amount of manganese precipitated during homogenization at temperatures between 390 degrees C and 640 degrees C has been investigated. In addition the dispersoid size, morphology and distribution has been determined.