[Chemical Knowledge]：Properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods of magnesium oxide, introduction of magnesium oxide

Magnesium oxide properties

Magnesium oxide (MgO), also known as bitter soil, is an inorganic compound with stable chemical properties. It appears as a white powder or colorless crystals with a density of 3.58g/cm³ and a melting point of up to 2852°C. Magnesium oxide has good fire resistance and insulation, and is insoluble in water, but can react with acid and ammonium salt to generate the corresponding magnesium salt. It is volatile at high temperatures and reacts slowly with carbon dioxide and water vapor to form magnesium carbonate.

Magnesium oxide uses

Magnesium oxide is widely used in industry, agriculture, medicine and other fields. In the building materials industry, magnesium oxide is an important raw material for the production of refractory materials, which is used to manufacture the lining and hearth of high temperature kilns. Magnesium oxide is also a key component in the preparation of ceramics, enamels, electrical insulation materials and chemical products. In agriculture, it is used as a fertilizer and feed additive to increase the magnesium content of soil and animals. In the field of medicine, magnesium oxide is used as a stomach acid neutralizer and a laxative to help treat hyperacidity and constipation.

Magnesium Oxide Upstream Feedstock

The main upstream raw materials for magnesium oxide are natural magnesite (MgCO₂) and seawater magnesium (MgCl₂). Magnesite is calcined and decomposes to form magnesium oxide and carbon dioxide. This process is known as the calcination reaction: MgCO? → MgO CO₂. Extraction of magnesium from seawater is also a common method. Magnesium ions in seawater react with lime milk (Ca(OH)₂) to form magnesium hydroxide precipitate, which is then calcined to form magnesium oxide: Mg²-Ca(OH) →Mg (OH) ↓ Ca, Mg(OH) →MgO H₂ O.

Magnesium Oxide Downstream Products

Magnesium oxide is the basis for the production of many downstream products. For example, in the refractory industry, it is made into magnesia brick, magnesia alumina spinel brick, etc., used in metallurgy, glass, ceramics and other high temperature industries. Magnesium oxide can also be used in the production of magnesium cement, this special cement has fast hardening, water resistance, corrosion resistance and other characteristics, widely used in ground pavement, repair materials. In the field of environmental protection, magnesium oxide is used as a desulfurizer to treat sulfur dioxide in industrial waste gas. In the electronics industry, magnesium oxide is made into high-purity single crystals for the manufacture of special optical materials and insulators.

Magnesium Oxide Storage Method

Magnesium oxide is hygroscopic and easily reacts with moisture and carbon dioxide in the air, so it is necessary to pay attention to moisture-proof and sealing during storage. Generally, double-layer packaging bags are used, the inner layer is a plastic bag, and the outer layer is a woven bag to ensure its dryness and stability. The storage environment should be kept dry, ventilated and cool, avoiding direct sunlight and humid air. Store away from acidic substances to prevent chemical reactions. Magnesium oxide should be stored for a long time as much as possible, and it is recommended to use it within the shelf life to ensure that its performance is not affected.

Magnesium Oxide Market Demand

With the increasing demand for high-performance materials in various industries, the market demand for magnesium oxide is growing steadily. In the iron and steel metallurgy industry, the demand for refractory materials directly drives the magnesium oxide market. In the field of environmental protection, the use of magnesium oxide as a desulfurizer is also increasing year by year. The demand for high-purity magnesium oxide in the electronics industry has increased significantly, driving the market expansion of high-end magnesium oxide products. In the future, with the continuous development of new technologies and new applications, the market prospect of magnesium oxide will be broader.

Magnesium Oxide Production Process Improvement

In order to improve the quality and production efficiency of magnesium oxide, many improvements have been made in the production process in recent years. For example, in the process of magnesite calcination, the use of advanced rotary kiln and fluidized bed calcination technology can effectively improve the output and product purity. By optimizing the process of extracting magnesium from seawater, the impurity content is reduced and the purity of magnesium hydroxide is improved, so as to produce high quality magnesium oxide. Use clean production technology and energy-saving equipment to reduce energy consumption and pollutant emissions and achieve green production.

Magnesium Oxide Market Distribution

The production and consumption of magnesium oxide are mainly concentrated in Asia, Europe and North America. As the world's largest producer and consumer of magnesium oxide, China's output and market share dominate. European countries, especially Germany and Russia, are known for their high-quality refractories and have a large demand for high-purity magnesium oxide. The North American market focuses on environmental protection and high-end applications, and there is a strong demand for magnesium oxide for desulfurizers and electronic materials. The global market shows a diversified development trend, and different regions have different demand for magnesium oxide according to their own industrial structure and technical needs.

Magnesium Oxide Industry: Challenges and Opportunities

Although the magnesium oxide market has broad prospects, it also faces some challenges. For example, fluctuations in raw material prices and increasingly stringent environmental protection policies have put pressure on manufacturers. The international market competition is fierce, technical barriers and trade barriers are also the difficulties that enterprises need to overcome. With the progress of science and technology and the continuous change of market demand, the magnesium oxide industry has also ushered in new opportunities. The development of new materials and new technologies has opened up a broader application field for magnesium oxide. Enterprises can improve the added value of products and market competitiveness through technological innovation and management optimization.

Conclusion

As an important inorganic chemical raw material, magnesium oxide has broad application prospects and market potential. Under the premise of ensuring product quality and environmental protection, through process improvement and technological innovation, it can further enhance its market competitiveness and economic benefits. In the face of future opportunities and challenges, industry practitioners need to continue to explore and practice, and contribute to the sustainable development of the magnesium oxide industry.