Magnesium Hydroxide Product Description

1. Product Overview

Magnesium Hydroxide (chemical formula: Mg(OH)2) is a white, odorless, fine powder with a slightly alkaline nature. It is a sparingly soluble inorganic compound with a high decomposition temperature and excellent flame retardant, acid-neutralizing, and smoke-suppressing properties. As an environmentally friendly material, it is widely used in chemical, environmental, p-h-a-rmaceutical, plastic, rubber, and other industrial sectors. With increasing global demand for halogen-free flame retardants and green chemicals, magnesium hydroxide has become an essential raw material in modern industry.

2. Chemical and Physical Properties

• Chemical Name : Magnesium Hydroxide

• Molecular Formula : Mg(OH)2

• Molecular Weight : 58.32 g/mol

• Appearance : White powder

• Odor : Odorless

• Melting Point : Decomposes at ~350°C

• Solubility in Water : Slightly soluble (0.0009 g/100 mL at 18°C)

• pH (10% suspension) : 10.5-11.5

• Decomposition : Produces magnesium oxide and water

• Reactivity : Reacts with acids to form magnesium salts and water

3. Production Process

Magnesium hydroxide can be produced via various methods, including:

• Natural Mining : Refinement of brucite, a naturally occurring mineral form of Mg(OH)2.

• Precipitation Process : Reacting a soluble magnesium salt (e.g., magnesium chloride or magnesium sulfate) with an alkaline solution (e.g., s-o-dium hydroxide or a-m-monia water).

• Seawater Method : Common in coastal regions, involves reacting seawater-derived magnesium ions with lime.

The choice of process affects the purity, particle size, specific surface area, and application of the final product. For industrial and p-h-a-rmaceutical applications, synthetic magnesium hydroxide offers better control over purity and consistency.

4. Key Applications

(1) Flame Retardant and Smoke Suppressant

Magnesium hydroxide decomposes endothermically at approximately 340-350°C, absorbing heat and releasing water vapor, which dilutes combustible gases and cools the combustion surface. Its residue, magnesium oxide (MgO), forms a protective layer that suppresses further ignition. It is widely used in:

• Cables and wires

• Polyolefin plastics

• EVA foam

• PVC and rubber products

• Fireproof coatings

(2) Wastewater Treatment

As an alkaline agent, magnesium hydroxide effectively neutralizes acidic wastewater, stabilizes pH, and precipitates heavy metals. Its advantages over traditional c-a-ustic soda (NaOH) include:

• Safer handling

• Slower, more controlled neutralization

• Long-lasting buffering capacity

• Lower environmental impact

(3) P-h-a-rmaceuticals

Magnesium hydroxide is used as:

• Antacid : Relieves indigestion and heartburn by neutralizing stomach acid.

• Laxative : Stimulates bowel movements by retaining water in the intestines.

It is a key ingredient in over-the-counter antacid tablets and milk of magnesia formulations.

(4) Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD)

Magnesium hydroxide reacts with s-u-lfur dioxide (SO2) in industrial exhaust gas streams to produce magnesium sulfite/sulfate, effectively reducing SO2 emissions. Compared with limestone-based systems, it offers:

• Higher reaction efficiency

• Less sludge

• Recyclable by-products

(5) Other Applications

• Fertilizer additive : Provides magnesium, an essential plant nutrient

• Ceramic industry : Used as a raw material for MgO ceramics

• Pulp and paper : Acts as a buffering and neutralizing agent

• Paints and coatings : Enhances fire resistance

• Cosmetics and personal care : Used in deodorants and skincare products

5. Advantages of Magnesium Hydroxide

• Halogen-Free Flame Retardant : Safe, environmentally friendly substitute for brominated compounds

• High Thermal Stability : Decomposes at high temperatures without releasing toxic gases

• Smoke Suppression : Minimizes smoke generation during combustion

• Environmentally Safe : Non-toxic, non-corrosive, biodegradable

• Mild Alkalinity : Provides controlled neutralization, reducing risks in wastewater treatment

• Multifunctionality : One compound serves multiple roles across diverse industries

6. Available Grades and Specifications

Custom grades are available upon request, including surface-treated and modified magnesium hydroxide for improved dispersion and compatibility with polymers.

7. Packaging and Storage

• Packaging Options :

  • 25 kg PP/PE woven bags

  • 500 kg or 1000 kg jumbo bags

  • Custom packaging available on request

• Storage Conditions :

  • Store in a dry, well-ventilated area

  • Keep away from moisture and acids

  • Avoid direct sunlight

• Shelf Life : 2 years under proper storage