What Is Magnesium Hydroxide?
Magnesium hydroxide, with the chemical formula Mg(OH)₂, is found in minerals like bluestone and brucite, presenting as a white powder in industrial products. Due to its strong alkalinity and reaction with carbon dioxide to form barium carbonate, it is identified as a highly toxic substance requiring careful handling.
Uses of Magnesium Hydroxide
Its applications are diverse, including:
1. Environmental Applications
Used in flue gas desulfurization and as a neutralizer in wastewater treatment, it constitutes a significant demand in environmental management.
2. Flame Retardants
Added to plastics and building materials, it acts as an eco-friendly flame retardant.
3. Food and Pharmaceuticals
Recognized as safe for human consumption, it serves as a food additive, antacid, and laxative, leveraging its properties to neutralize stomach acid and stimulate intestinal motility.
Properties of Magnesium Hydroxide
This compound has a molecular weight of 58.34, a specific gravity of 2.39, and is practically insoluble in water. It reacts with weak acid solutions and ammonium salt solutions, with its aqueous solutions being alkaline. Magnesium hydroxide also absorbs CO₂ to form hydroxycarbonates and decomposes endothermically between 330-430°C, a trait utilized in flame retardancy.
Other Information on Magnesium Hydroxide
Production Methods
Three primary methods include:
1. Pulverization Method: Directly pulverizing bluesite, a natural ore, which is cost-effective but may lead to variable purity levels.
2. Alkaline Precipitation Method: Precipitating magnesium hydroxide from seawater or bittern by adding an alkali, often slaked lime, to form a low-cost and non-toxic byproduct.
3. Hydration Method: Reacting magnesia with hot water, an approach favored in regions with abundant magnesite resources.
Each method offers distinct advantages in terms of cost, purity, and environmental impact, making magnesium hydroxide a versatile compound in various industries.