Magnasium oxide light
| Formula | MgO |
| Chemical formula | MgO |
| Density | 3.58 g/cm3 |
| Molar mass | 40.30 g/mol |
| Bulk density | 100 – 200 kg/m3 |
| CAS number | 1309-48-4 |
| HS Code | 25199010 |
| EC number | 215-171-9 |
| Storage | Without limitation |
| SDS | available |
| RTECS | OM3850000 |
| S phrase | S 22 |
| Odour | odourless |
| Form | solid |
| Color | white |
| Solubility in water | almost insoluble(20°C) |
| Solubility in ethanol | insoluble(20°C) |
| Boiling point | 3600 °C |
| Melting point | 2800 °C |
| Assay | 96.0 – 100.5 | % | |
| Description | Conforms | ||
| Identification | Conforms | ||
| Solubility | Conforms | ||
| Loss on drying | ≤ | 10 | % |
| Free Alkali & soluble salts | ≤ | 2.0 | % |
| Acid Insoluble substances | ≤ | 0.1 | % |
| Heavy metals | ≤ | 20 | ppm |
| Limit of Calcium | ≤ | 1.1 | % |
| Iron | ≤ | 0.05 | % |
Magnesium oxide light is an inorganic compound consisting of magnesium and oxygen, commonly used as a refractory material, in agriculture, and as a food additive.
🏭⚗️ Production
It is produced industrially by calcining (heating) magnesium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide at moderate temperatures (around 700–1000°C), resulting in a light, porous powder with lower bulk density compared to dense magnesia. In laboratory or pharmaceutical settings, it can be prepared by controlled thermal decomposition of magnesium salts.
🔬 Properties
Magnesium oxide light appears as a white, fine, porous powder with a chemical formula of MgO and a molar mass of about 40.3 g/mol. It is less dense and more reactive than dense magnesia, with a high melting point (~2852°C), good thermal stability, and basic (alkaline) properties.
🧪 Applications
It is widely used in refractory bricks, insulation, agriculture as a soil amendment to correct magnesium deficiency, and in pharmaceuticals as an antacid and laxative. It is also used as a food additive (E530) and in environmental applications such as wastewater treatment.
⚠️ Safety
Magnesium oxide light is generally considered safe but can cause irritation if inhaled as dust or upon contact with eyes and skin. Proper protective equipment like masks, goggles, and gloves should be used during handling. It should be stored in a dry place away from moisture.
