Product Overview & Executive Summary
USP Grade Light Magnesium Oxide Powder - Product Datasheet & Specifications
Product Name: USP Grade Light Magnesium Oxide Powder
Synonym: Calcined Magnesia (Light), Magnesia U.S.P. (if applicable)
Chemical Formula: MgO
CAS Number: 1309-48-4
EINECS Number: 215-171-9
Product Description
USP Grade Light Magnesium Oxide Powder is a fine, white, amorphous powder characterized by its exceptionally low bulk density and high specific surface area. It is produced via the calcination of high-grade magnesium hydroxide or magnesium carbonate at controlled temperatures. This process yields a fluffy, voluminous powder with a porous particle structure, resulting in high chemical reactivity and excellent adsorption properties. Its high purity level, with minimal impurities, makes it suitable for demanding applications across various high-tech industries, including pharmaceuticals, advanced ceramics, and electronic materials.
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Key Features
High Purity & USP Compliance: MgO content typically ≥ 98.5% - 99.5%, meeting USP standards for pharmaceutical and industrial applications.
Low Bulk Density: Exhibits a very light, fluffy consistency, ensuring easy dispersion and high coverage.
High Surface Area: Possesses a large specific surface area, contributing to its superior reactivity and adsorption capacity.
Controlled Reactivity: The calcination process is optimized to deliver consistent and predictable chemical activity.
Chemical Stability: Excellent thermal stability with a melting point of approximately 2852°C, suitable for high-temperature applications.
Functional Performance: Effective flame retardancy and smoke suppression through endothermic decomposition.
Detailed Technical Specifications & Analytical
Chemical Composition & Purity
| Parameter | Specification | Standard Grade | High Purity Grade | Test Method |
Magnesium Oxide (MgO) Content | ≥ 98.5% | 98.5 - 99.2% | ≥ 99.4% | Gravimetric Analysis |
Loss on Ignition (LOI) | ≤ 3.0 - 5.0% | 3.5% | 2.0% | 950°C ± 25°C, to constant weight |
Calcium Oxide (CaO) | ≤ 0.50% | 0.30% | ≤ 0.10% | ICP-OES / AAS |
Iron (as Fe2O3) | ≤ 0.05% | 0.03% | ≤ 0.01% | ICP-OES / Colorimetric |
Chlorides (as Cl) | ≤ 0.10% | 0.07% | ≤ 0.05% | Potentiometric Titration |
Sulfates (as SO4) | ≤ 0.15% | 0.10% | ≤ 0.08% | Gravimetric Analysis / IC |
Heavy Metals (as Pb) | ≤ 0.005% | Complies | ≤ 0.002% | USP/EP Method |
Arsenic (As) | ≤ 0.0003% | Complies | ≤ 0.0001% | HG-AFS / ICP-MS |
Physical Properties
Parameter | Specification / Typical Value | Test Method | Notes |
Appearance | White, fine, lightweight powder | Visual Inspection | — |
Bulk Density (Loose) | 0.10 - 0.25 g/cm³ | ASTM B527 | Tunable based on customer requirement. |
Tapped Density | 0.20 - 0.40 g/cm³ | ASTM B527 | — |
Particle Size (D50) | 1.0 - 10.0 micrometers | Laser Diffraction | Custom grinding available. |
Particle Size (D97) | ≤ 20.0 micrometers | Laser Diffraction | — |
Specific Surface Area (SSA) | 30 - 70 m²/g | BET Nitrogen Adsorption | Key indicator of activity. |
| Iodine Absorption Value | 80 - 140 mg I2/100g | Titration | Measure of surface activity. |
Whiteness | ≥ 92% | Hunter / CIE Lab | Reflectance measurement. |
Oil Absorption | 100 - 150 g/100g | ASTM D281 | Relevant for paints and plastics. |
Screen Residue (325 mesh) | ≤ 0.5% | Wet Sieving | — |
Water Solubility | Practically insoluble | — | Soluble in dilute acids |
Key Characteristics & Functional Advantages
High Chemical Purity: Meticulously controlled manufacturing process ensures minimal levels of impurities, critical for electronic and pharmaceutical applications.
Low Bulk Density and High Porosity: Provides excellent coverage and acts as a functional filler. The porous structure is ideal for adsorption applications.
Superior Reactivity and Adsorption: The large specific surface area makes it highly reactive, facilitating its use as an acid scavenger, catalyst support, and reactant.
Excellent Thermal Stability: With a melting point of approximately 2852°C (5166°F), it functions as an effective refractory material and high-temperature stabilizer.
Effective Flame Retardancy & Smoke Suppression: Decomposes endothermically, making it a key component in halogen-free flame retardant systems.
Good Dispersibility: Can be engineered with surface treatments to improve compatibility and prevent agglomeration.
Primary Applications & Industries Served
Flame Retardant & Smoke Suppressant:
- Used as an additive in PVC cables, rubber products, and polyolefins as a synergistic flame retardant.
- Provides effective halogen-free flame retardancy and smoke suppression through endothermic decomposition.
Advanced Ceramics & Refractories:
- Raw material for production of magnesia ceramics, crucibles, and furnace linings.
- Imparts high-temperature strength and thermal shock resistance to refractory materials.
Pharmaceutical & Nutraceutical Applications:
- Active ingredient in antacids and laxatives.
- Source of magnesium in dietary supplements, meeting USP and Ph. Eur. standards.
Electrical & Electronic Materials:
- Critical component in insulation coating for grain-oriented silicon steel (GOES) sheets used in power transformers.
Environmental & Chemical Processes:
- Functions as an adsorbent for acidic gases and in wastewater treatment.
- Used as a catalyst and catalyst support in various chemical processes.
Food & Feed Applications:
- Acts as an anti-caking agent and nutritional supplement in food and animal feed.
- Meets FCC specifications for food additive applications.
Packaging, Storage & Handling
Packaging Options: 25 kg multi-ply paper bags, 500 kg or 1000 kg FIBCs (Big Bags). Custom packaging available.
Storage Recommendations: Store in a cool, dry place. Keep containers tightly closed to prevent moisture absorption.
Shelf Life: 24 months from the date of manufacture.
Handling Precautions: Avoid creating dust. Use local exhaust ventilation. Wear appropriate PPE (dust masks, safety glasses, gloves).
Safety Information (Summary of SDS)
GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous.
Hazard Statements: May cause mild mechanical irritation to eyes and respiratory system.
First Aid Measures:
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air.
- Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.
Quality Assurance & Customization
Quality Management System: Manufactured in a facility certified to ISO 9001:2015 standards.
Batch Certification: A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) is provided with each shipment.
Regulatory Compliance: Meets USP., FCC., Ph. Eur., REACH, and RoHS.
Customization Services:
- Custom particle size distribution.
- Modification of specific surface area and reactivity.
- Surface treatment (e.g., with stearic acid or silanes) for improved compatibility.