Applications of Magnesium Oxide Boards

23 Jan Applications of Magnesium Oxide Boards

Looking for material that’s versatile and eco-friendly? The construction world just found its new favorite – MgO boards. This game-changing material is transforming how we build. But what exactly are MgO boards, and why are they making waves? 

MgO boards are made from magnesium oxide, a mineral known for its fire-resistant properties. But they are not just about fire safety. These boards effectively work in construction and architecture. They are safe to use in construction, from homes to large commercial projects. 

Imagine a material that’s as easy to cut and shape as drywall. That’s MgO boards! They resist mold, mildew, and termites. These properties make them great for areas with moisture and pests. They’re also lightweight and strong, which means they can be used in tall buildings. 

But MgO boards offer more than just practical benefits. They are eco-friendly and made from non-toxic and sustainable materials. This makes them perfect for green building practices. It helps architects to reduce their carbon footprint.

In this blog, we’ll look at the many uses of MgO boards in construction. MgO boards are a builder’s dream. For making fireproof walls or ceilings, they are the best option. 

What Are Magnesium Oxide Boards?

Magnesium Oxide Boards are versatile construction materials.  They are used in ceilings, walls, flooring, and furniture. They are highly resistant to moisture and fire, making them perfect for kitchens and bathrooms.

In recent years, they have become the choice of architects because of their rich features. They are the perfect alternative to traditional construction materials. 

These boards are durable, lightweight, and offer excellent insulation in commercial and industrial areas. MgO boards are the best investment for your buildings because of their longevity.

Chemical Composition

MgO boards are composed of natural minerals and components, such as

• Magnesium Oxide
• Magnesium Chloride
• Water
• Fillers

Magnesium Oxide forms the structure of boards and provides strength. Magnesium Chloride helps to bind the material together, and water is used for mixing and paste formation. Meanwhile, fillers like wood flour are added to enhance flexibility.

This composition proves that MgO boards are safer and more sustainable. The lack of use of chemicals makes them harmless for users and the environment.

Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing process of MgO boards involves systematic steps. First, all the natural components are mixed, forming a thick paste. After that, the mixture is poured into a mold to give proper structure and shape. 

High-pressure pressing is used to make boards compact and strengthen their structure. Then, the MgO boards undergo a curing process in which drying and hardening occur. This hardening and drying can be done naturally or using controlled heat. 

Finally, the cured boards are cut and sanded for a smooth and neat finish. This manufacturing process ensures the MgO boards meet the quality and performance standards.

Here are the reasons why MgO boards are considered an eco-friendly building material:

Key Properties

MgO boards offer several unique features, which include:

• MgO boards are strong yet lightweight. They can bear loads without a crack or wear and tear and are easy to install.
• They are highly resistant to fire. They do not catch fire or emit toxic gases under high temperatures. This makes them a fireproof construction material.
• These boards do not absorb water, which keeps them from swelling or wrapping. This makes them a preferable choice for the areas with humidity.
• MgO boards have a non-porous surface. This feature makes them mold and mildew-resistant, ensuring hygiene and durability.
• Their composition involves natural components, making them safe, sustainable, and harmless.

Comparison of MgO Boards With Other Materials

Here is the comparison of MgO boards with other building materials. It will help you understand what makes MgO boards stand out in the crowd:

Advantages of Magnesium Oxide Boards

Magnesium Oxide boards become the top choice in construction materials. This is because it offers numerous advantages. It deals with all kinds of health, economic, and environmental needs.

Structural Benefits

MgO boards are lightweight but still very strong. They can endure high pressure and load, providing high performance. Their lightweight nature makes it easy and faster to install them. They do not add to the overall load of the building because of their lightweight. 

These boards have a non-combustion nature, which is worth mentioning. They don’t emit harmful gases during fire either, which makes them a safer choice. 

Their thermal resistance power prevents deformation under high temperatures. This feature protects the overall integrity of the building. These are why they hold an A Class rating for fire rating.

They provide sound insulation and are the best choice for creating quiet places. These properties make them ideal for schools, offices, and residential complexes.  

Environmental Benefits

MgO boards have a lower carbon footprint compared to traditional construction materials. Their manufacturing process involves only natural components. 

This process uses less energy, and no waste can be released afterward. This proves their part in the sustainable construction industry.

These boards are free from toxic chemicals harmful to humans and the environment. This ensures the safety of users and nature. Additionally, MgO boards are biodegradable after use. They break down naturally without releasing any harmful waste.

Another advantage of MgO boards is they are recyclable. They can be converted into new products, reducing construction waste. 

Health Benefits

Using MgO boards can significantly improve your health. They can keep indoor air pure and healthier. These boards have non-porous surfaces, which prevent mold and mildew. As a result, they provide safety against allergies and respiratory issues. 

This is a healthier choice for humid areas. They prevent pests and insects, which is another health protective factor. 

MgO boards do not emit harmful volatile organic compounds (VOC). These factors make them the best choice for buildings where air is the priority, such as hospitals.

Moreover, MgO boards contribute to a healthier thermal environment. They maintain the indoor temperature, reducing the need for heating and cooling devices. In this way, it eliminates the health risks caused by these devices.

Economic Benefits

MgO boards may feel expensive but are cost-effective in the long run. Their durability and ability to not wear out reduce the maintenance costs. The owner does not have to invest in frequent replacements and repairs. In this way, they can save a lot. 

MgO boards can be economical because of their versatility. They can be used in different places like flooring, walls, ceilings, and outer sheathing. They serve as a single solution. 

They replace many specialized materials and reduce overall cost. This simplifies the construction process.

In case of accidents like fire, they can reduce the damage, saving money. They resist moisture, molds, and pests and remain intact for long. It is a great return on the investment.  

Common Applications in Residential Construction 

Magnesium Oxide (MgO) boards are highly popular in residential construction. Their versatile properties make them the best choice for various applications. Some of the MgO boards’ common applications in residential areas are listed here.

Interior Walls and Ceilings

MgO boards are widely used for interior walls and ceilings. This is because of their various applications and features. 

They are ideal for places where fire safety is the priority. They are used in fireplaces and kitchens because of their fire resistance. Their non-combustion nature protects the house and gives owners peace of mind.

MgO boards stand out for their moisture resistance. They are widely used in humid places like bathrooms and basements. 

They do not absorb water and wrap out over time. They do not swell and are durable options that prevent mildew and mold growth. They help in maintaining a healthy indoor environment.

These boards offer great sound insulation. This is another reason they are widely used in interior walls and ceilings. They make creating a comfortable living space easy, especially in multi-story buildings.

Flooring Substrate

MgO boards are durable and strong construction materials. This is why it serves as an underlayment for flooring. Their stability and endurance make them a perfect fit for this purpose. They make the floor stay intact for a very long time.

Their installation is easy because of their lightweight. They keep the floor smooth and even for a long time. They prevent cracking even in high-traffic residential areas. 

Moreover, their water resistance makes them useful in flooring. They do not swell and stay in place. These boards benefit areas with water exposure, like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. 

Roof Sheathing

MgO boards are becoming immensely well-known for roof sheathing. The reason behind this is their excellent thermal insulation. 

They keep the home temperature stable. In winter, the house remains warm; in summer, they keep the temperature low. This reduces the extra expenses of heating and cooling devices.

Another reason for MgO board applications in roof sheathing is durability. They withstand extreme weather conditions, including snow, heavy rain, and high winds. 

They prevent issues like swelling and erosion over time. These boards ensure the roof remains intact and functional.

MgO boards are lightweight, which makes them easy to handle and install. It reduces labor costs and construction timelines. Moreover, this makes the pressure on the wall lighter and easier to handle.

These features make MgO boards a perfect choice for roofing.

External Cladding

Exterior Cladding is another application of MgO boards. Their resistance to pests and other insects adds another layer of safety for the building. They do not wrack up or crack even in high temperatures. This makes them robust and attractive solutions for residential areas.

MgO board facades can be customized. The homeowner can match their design preference with paint, finishes, or texture. 

MgO boards allow one to achieve any style without compromising quality. Whether a modern or traditional look is your priority, MgO boards are the destination.

These boards perform well against environmental factors, including UV rays and acid rain. This makes them suitable for homes in coastal areas. Mg boards provide a cost-effective and visually appealing exterior solution for residential buildings.

Decoration 

With MgO boards, you don’t have to worry about the decor of your space. Magnesium oxide boards can effortlessly amp up your living space because the material finished very nicely. They give a grand and royal look to your space along with the added benefits. 

Benefits to Homeowners

By using MgO boards in construction, homeowners enjoy a lot of benefits. These benefits include:

• Fire-resistant material that takes off the burden of protection against fire 
• Thermal Insulation
• Low Utility Bills because of heat insulation
• Low Maintenance Cost
• Minimum Repair
• Healthier Living Environment

Besides this, MgO boards are the perfect building material to use in both exterior and interior environments. 

Applications in Commercial and Industrial Spaces 

Magnesium oxide boards are the prior choice in commercial and industrial spaces. They are used in various ways because of their reliability and versatility. Some of them are listed here:

Fireproofing in Commercial Buildings:

In large buildings, ensuring fire safety is the top priority. MgO boards are fire-resistant and withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for ceilings and walls. 

These boards are commonly used in fire partitions, corridors, and emergencies. They ensure slow flames and more time for evacuation. These qualities make them essential in hospitals, schools, and shopping malls. 

MgO boards prevent smoke from spreading. As a result, escape becomes easier in case of an accident.

They are easy to install and provide high protection. MgO boards are the best way to protect lives and meet safety codes.

Hygiene-Sensitive Environments:

Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene is critical in hospitals, laboratories, and clinics. MgO boards are highly resistant to mold, mildew, and pests. This makes MgO boards perfect for these places. 

These boards stop harmful microorganisms from growing and maintain a clean environment. As a result, patients and staff stay safe and healthy.

Besides that, food processing units also need MgO boards. Their smooth surface makes it easy to clean them. They are constantly exposed to water cleaning agents and disinfectants here.

MgO boards survive well because of their water-repellent nature. These factors do not affect their durability and performance.  MgO boards prevent moisture from seeping in and keep the food preparation area safe and clean. These properties make MgO boards a hygienic and practical solution for these environments.

Industrial Applications

Factories and industries face challenges, including humidity, chemical exposure, and fire hazards. MgO boards cover all these problems. Their fire resistance protects critical areas, and moisture resistance protects against humidity.

MgO boards are in demand in heavy manufacturing industries. They are durable and strong and can bear the load of heavy machinery. 

They protect against cursive substances without craving and wearing out.  They strengthen the walls, ceilings, and floors of the industries. These uses prove MgO to be the best choice for heavy-duty industries.

Prefab Construction

Prefab is a modern form of construction. In this method, building parts are manufactured in factories and assembled on-site. Prefab construction is popularly used in modular homes and prefabricated building systems. It saves time, reduces waste, and cuts down costs. They are flexible, customizable, and suitable for modern design demands. 

Disaster-Resistant Structures

MgO boards are strong and reliable, even in disaster-prone areas. They are designed not only for hurricanes but also for floods and fires. They offer durability and safety. Therefore, they are best suited for people who live in areas susceptible to danger. They ensure security and comfort during extreme weather. 

Acoustic Insulation

MgO boards are helpful for sound absorption as well. Theaters, recording studios, and conference halls are the most users of these boards. These panels enhance sound quality and bar it from noise. They are also easy to install and make spaces soundproof.

Retrofit and Renovation Projects

Old buildings have elements such as dangerous asbestos and others. MgO boards are perfect for safe renovation. These are quick and efficient replacements for hazardous materials. Prefabricated solutions also help make spaces safe.

Limitations and Challenges

Here are the challenges and limitations of using MgO boards:

Cost Considerations

The primary limit of using MgO boards is a significantly higher initial cost. Compared to conventional materials, MgO boards tend to incur greater upfront costs. Using specialized manufacturing processes and quality control in production can drive up costs. These boards must be transported to various construction sites, which can also add to expenses. It happens especially in large projects.

MgO boards require minimal maintenance. It adds up to their worth. However, the initial costs can still be a barrier. Smaller projects working with tight budgets find it a big investment challenge.

Installation Challenges

MgO boards usually need skilled labor to fit properly. Training for handling, positioning, and installation of these boards is essential. Skilled workers are needed to ensure their performance and longevity.

Lack of expertise can lead to improper fitting or structural problems. Edges of MgO boards are pretty brittle. It requires careful handling when moving or installing. Even minor damage, like chipped edges, can affect their aesthetics or functionality. 

This means proper equipment, trained handling, and care in handling the materials is essential. It leads to increased labor costs and complexity of the project.

Availability and Awareness

Some regions have adopted wide use of MgO boards. Still, there are some areas that rely on conventional construction materials. This slower adoption can be due to various factors, including awareness and availability.

Many builders and contractors need to know about MgO board technology and its benefits. Lack of knowledge prevents them from adopting these. Moreover, these boards do not have easy access and all features available in remote areas. 

This may add up to the transportation costs and delays. Builders and homeowners might look away from MgO boards without proper education and awareness. It turns them to trust the familiar options. 

Potential for Over-Specification

Over-specification poses another challenge regarding MgO board products. These boards have advanced features like fire resistance, water resistance, and strength. However, not all projects require such high performance. When MgO boards are placed in areas like interior walls of non-humid spaces, it adds unnecessary costs. Using them in such areas is not cost-effective.

This, in turn, reduces their practical value.

Wrap Up

MgO boards comprise a part of new-generation solutions suited for all modern constructions. They add value to modular homes and prefabricated systems. Being durable, these boards stand strong enough under extreme conditions. They don’t fall apart when hurricanes and floods damage buildings. Besides that, they resist fire. They are the go-to material for self-building or renovating low-cost yet resilient structures.

MgO boards will achieve what everyone would expect from modern construction materials. Being versatile, MgO boards are durable and sustainable. They are also efficient for both residential and commercial constructions.

It’s time to get the long-term benefits of MgO boards and start including them in your next project. It will help you build a better and safer tomorrow. Trust Sulfycor for your MgO board needs and experience the future of construction today.