Magnesium carbonate

Chinese Name: Magnesium Carbonate

English Name: Magnesium carbonate

Magnesium carbonate, chemical formula MgCO₃, can be used as refractory material, insulation material for boilers and pipelines, and as an additive in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, rubber, ink, etc. The relative molecular mass of magnesium carbonate is 84.

Pharmaceutical intermediate, antacid, desiccant, color fixative, carrier, anti-caking agent; used as an additive and magnesium supplement in food.

In fine chemicals, it is used to produce chemical reagents; in rubber, it serves as a reinforcing agent and filler; it can be used as thermal insulation and high-temperature resistant fireproof insulation material; an important chemical raw material in the manufacturing of wires and cables. Used in the production of glass products; provides surface gloss in enamel and ceramics; used in the production of magnesium salts, pigments, paints, daily cosmetics, shipbuilding, and boiler manufacturing. Also used by athletes for hand drying during competitions.

Used in the production of magnesium salts, magnesium oxide, fireproof coatings, ink, glass, toothpaste, rubber fillers, etc. In food, it is used as a flour improver and bread leavening agent.

Properties

White monoclinic crystals or amorphous powder, odorless, stable in air. Relative density 2.16. Slightly soluble in water, aqueous solution is weakly alkaline, solubility in water is 0.02% (15°C). Easily soluble in acid and ammonium salt solutions. Decomposes easily into magnesium oxide and carbon dioxide when calcined. Decomposes upon contact with dilute acid, releasing carbon dioxide. Generally slightly soluble in water. When heated, it easily reacts with water (during hard water softening) to form magnesium hydroxide (because magnesium hydroxide is less soluble than magnesium carbonate). Equation: MgCO₃ + H₂O = Mg(OH)₂ + CO₂