What Is Magnesium Sulfate?
Magnesium sulfate is a white crystalline to crystalline powdered metal salt.
It is also known as Epsom salt or Epsom salt, especially in its heptahydrate form.
Uses of Magnesium Sulfate
Magnesium sulfate is widely used as a highly safe chemical.
1. Fertilizer
In pesticide applications, magnesium sulfate monohydrate is mainly used. Chlorophyll, which plants need for photosynthesis, contains magnesium sulfate, so magnesium sulfate can be mixed into fertilizers to aid plant growth.
The advantage of magnesium sulfate is that it is more soluble than other magnesium soil amendments. In addition, the pH of its aqueous solution is nearly neutral, so it does not significantly affect soil pH when applied.
2. Bathing Agent
In Europe and the United States, magnesium sulfate has long been used as a bathing agent. It is expected to have a warming effect and relieve pain.
3. Laxatives and Enemas
Magnesium sulfate is a fast-acting salt laxative. It has long been used for medicinal purposes and suppresses the absorption of water in the intestines. It also concentrates water in the intestines and softens stools to promote defecation.
Magnesium poisoning is one of the serious side effects of Magnesium sulfate. Symptoms include lethargy, muscle weakness, breathlessness, drowsiness, fever, and hypotension. When taking large doses, be aware of the above symptoms.
4. Organic Synthetic Chemistry
Magnesium sulfate is used as a drying agent in organic chemical synthesis experiments due to its high affinity for water. It can be added to the organic solvent phase during post-reaction post-treatment to remove water. Inorganic sulfates such as Sodium Sulfate and Calcium Sulfate can be used in the same way.
5. Other
Magnesium sulfate is one of the components found in seawater. It is also found in small amounts in bittern, which coagulates tofu.
It is also used as a pharmaceutical, food additive, and feed additive to treat hypomagnesemia, arrhythmia, and eclampsia.
Properties of Magnesium Sulfate
The chemical formula of the anhydride is represented by MgSO4, with a molecular weight of 120.37. The CAS number is registered as 7487-88-9.
Its melting point is 1,124°C and it decomposes upon melting. An odorless compound with hygroscopic properties, it is soluble in water, insoluble in ethanol, and practically insoluble in acetone and diethyl ether. It reacts with water and releases heat.
Its pH, which indicates the degree of acidity or alkalinity, ranges from 5.0 to 8.0 (50 g/L, 25°C).
Types of Magnesium Sulfate
Because anhydrous magnesium sulfate is unstable, it is usually found in nature as a hydrate. Known hydrates include 1 to 11 water molecules bound to 1 magnesium sulfate.
In nature, 7-hydrate is the most common. The CAS number for the septahydrate is 10034-99-8. 7-hydrate can be heated to monohydrate at 120°C and anhydrous at 250°C. The anhydrous form is called epsomite.
Other Information on Magnesium Sulfate
1. Production Method of Magnesium Sulfate
Magnesium sulfate can be obtained directly from natural resources. Magnesium sulfate can also be synthesized by reacting sulfuric acid with magnesium oxide or magnesium carbonate.
2. Handling and Storage Precautions
Precautions for Handling
Use in a location with a local exhaust ventilation system. Wear personal protective equipment when using.
In Case of Fire
Thermal decomposition may release irritating and toxic gases and vapors. Use a fire extinguisher suitable for the surrounding environment.
In Case of Skin Contact
Wear protective clothing and protective gloves to prevent skin contact. If skin contact occurs, immediately wash off with large amounts of water and soap. If symptoms persist, contact a physician.
In the Case of Eye Contact
Always wear protective glasses or goggles when using the product. In the unlikely event of eye contact, remove contact lenses and rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Seek immediate medical attention.
For Storage
Keep sealed in a polyethylene or polypropylene container. Store locked in a cool, well-ventilated place out of direct sunlight.