11 Jun Chemical Composition of Magnesium Sulfate Boards
Table of Contents
Magnesium sulfate boards are made of magnesium oxide (MgO) and magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄). These materials create a strong, light, and useful product for construction. People like these boards because they are tough and long-lasting. For instance, research shows magnesium sulfate cement concrete gets 28% stronger in 90 days than normal concrete. Its ability to stretch without breaking can grow by 121%. These features make magnesium sulfate boards a good option for modern building methods.
Key Takeaways
Magnesium sulfate boards are made from magnesium oxide and sulfate. They are strong and last long for building projects.
These boards resist fire, water, and mold. They work well in wet places like bathrooms and kitchens.
Magnesium sulfate boards are light, making them easy to install. They are strong enough to handle heavy use without breaking.
These boards are eco-friendly because they use natural materials. They can be recycled, which helps the environment.
Magnesium sulfate boards are better than gypsum and cement. They resist fire, soak up less water, and last longer.
Chemical Composition of Magnesium Sulfate Boards
Magnesium Oxide and Magnesium Sulfate
Magnesium sulfate boards are made from two main materials. These are magnesium oxide (MgO) and magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄). Magnesium oxide gives the boards strength and keeps them stable. Magnesium sulfate makes the boards tough against water and fire. Together, they create a strong and lightweight material for building.
The mix of chemicals in these boards gives them great features. For example, they can bend with a strength of 11 MPa. They can handle impacts up to 20.3 KJ/m². Their density is 1049 kg/m³, making them light but sturdy. They also have very little chloride, only 0.01%, which stops rust over time.
Property | Value |
|---|---|
Flexural strength | 11 MPa |
Impact strength | 20.3 KJ/m² |
Apparent density | 1049 kg/m³ |
Moisture content | 9% |
Drying shrinkage | 0.2% |
Swelling rate | 0.4% |
Holding the bolt strength | 49 N/mm |
Chloride ion content | 0.01% |
Thermal conductivity coefficient | 0.206 W/(m·K) |
Combustion property | A1 Grade |
These features make magnesium sulfate boards a dependable choice for building projects.
Molecular Structure and Hydrated Forms
The way magnesium sulfate is built helps it work well. It comes in dry and wet forms. The wet form, like magnesium sulfate heptahydrate (MgSO₄·7H₂O), holds water without losing strength. This keeps the boards steady in damp places.
Magnesium oxide reacts with water to make magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)₂). This reaction makes the boards stronger and better at resisting fire. When heated, water vapor is released, helping stop flames. These chemical reactions keep the boards durable and safe from fire.
Additives and Reinforcements in Magnesium Sulfate Boards
Extra materials are added to make the boards even better. These additives improve certain features for different uses.
Additive/Reinforcement | Impact on Performance Properties |
|---|---|
Fiberglass Mesh | Makes boards stronger, flexible, and less likely to crack. Great for earthquake zones. |
Water-Resistant Agents | Stops water damage and mold growth. |
Smoothening Agents | Makes boards easier to handle and gives a smooth surface. |
Magnesium Sulfate (MgSO₄) | Improves toughness, fire safety, and moisture resistance, especially in wet areas. |
For example, fiberglass mesh makes the boards flexible and strong. This is helpful in places with earthquakes. Water-resistant agents stop water from soaking in, preventing mold. Smoothening agents make the surface better for handling and finishing. These extras help magnesium sulfate boards meet different building needs.
By mixing magnesium oxide, magnesium sulfate, and special additives, these boards become strong, durable, and versatile.
Physical Properties of Magnesium Sulfate Boards
Appearance and Texture
Magnesium sulfate boards look and feel unique. Their color can be opaque or see-through, depending on the magnesium sulfate amount. Boards with pure hydrogels are white, while those with magnesium sulfate have smaller pores and scattered crystals. The surface feels smooth and even, with a thickness of about 2–3 mm.
These boards have connected pores that range from 20–100 μm in size. This design helps them stay stable during freeze-drying, keeping the pores intact. These features make the boards strong and reliable for projects needing uniformity and durability.
Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
Appearance | Opaque or translucent for hydrogels with MgSO₄; pure hydrogels without Mg are white. |
Texture | Homogenous and soft, with a diameter of 1 cm and thickness of about 2–3 mm. |
Pore Structure | Interconnected and homogenous porous structure with pore sizes ranging from 20–100 μm. |
Effect of MgSO₄ Content | Increased MgSO₄ leads to smaller pore sizes (~20 μm) and dispersion of magnesium sulfate crystals. |
Morphological Changes | Pure hydrogels lose porous structure during freeze-drying, while MgSO₄/MgO maintains it. |
Density and Weight
Magnesium sulfate boards are light but strong, making them easy to use. A 12mm MagPanel weighs about 2.2 pounds per square foot. This is similar to gypsum boards but lighter than cement boards. Their density is around 1 g/cm³, which adds to their strength and flexibility.
Material | Thickness | Weight (pounds per square foot) |
|---|---|---|
12mm MagPanel | 1/2 inch | 2.2 |
Gypsum Board | 1/2 inch | 1.6 to 2.2 |
Cement Board | 1/2 inch | Heavier than MagPanel |
These boards are stronger than drywall, with flexural strength between 7 and 15 MPa. Drywall only has 3 to 5 MPa. This mix of density and strength makes them durable and easy to install.
Thermal and Acoustic Insulation
Magnesium sulfate boards are great for keeping spaces warm and quiet. Their thermal conductivity is 0.216 w/cm•k, which is lower than lime and sand bricks. This helps keep indoor temperatures steady, saving money on heating and cooling.
For soundproofing, a 6mm board blocks 29dB of noise. Double-sided 9mm boards can block up to 42dB. These features make rooms quieter and more comfortable.
Thermal Benefits:
Cuts heating and cooling costs.
Stops cold spots near outside walls.
Acoustic Benefits:
Absorbs sound well.
Blocks up to 42dB of noise with thicker boards.
These qualities show how useful the boards are for energy-saving and soundproof spaces.
Chemical Properties of Magnesium Sulfate Boards
Solubility and Moisture Resistance
Magnesium sulfate boards resist water well. They work great in damp places. Unlike other materials, they absorb very little water. This keeps them strong even in humid areas. Their water resistance helps them stay durable for a long time.
These boards don’t dissolve or weaken in water. This makes them perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. They absorb only 0.34% moisture, while gypsum boards absorb up to 3%. This big difference stops water damage and keeps the boards lasting longer.
Because they don’t soak up much water, mold can’t grow easily. Their water resistance protects the boards and helps keep indoor spaces healthier.
Fire Resistance and Non-combustibility
Magnesium sulfate boards don’t burn, making them safe for buildings. They resist fire in homes, offices, and factories. When heated, they release water vapor. This cools the surface and slows down flames.
These boards have top fire ratings. Their Flame Spread Index (FSI) is 0, meaning they are Class A materials. They also have an A1 rating, showing they don’t catch fire.
Feature | Measurement |
|---|---|
Flame Spread Index (FSI) | 0 (CLASS A) |
Fire Resistance Rating | A1 Non-Combustible |
These fire-safe boards are great for building homes and workplaces. They give you peace of mind by reducing fire risks.
Resistance to Mold and Mildew
Magnesium sulfate boards stop mold from growing. They are perfect for wet places. Their high alkalinity blocks mold and mildew. This keeps the boards clean and safe.
Tests show they absorb only 0.34% moisture, much less than gypsum boards. This low moisture level keeps them dry in damp areas. They also scored 0/0/0 on the ASTM G21 test, proving they resist mold completely.
Mold-resistant features:
Absorb only 0.34% moisture.
High alkalinity stops mold growth.
Perfect score on ASTM G21 test.
Using these boards helps create healthier spaces. They are great for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements where moisture is common.
Advantages of Magnesium Sulfate Boards
Durability and Longevity
Magnesium sulfate boards are strong and last a long time. They go through tough tests to handle bad weather. Special aging tests check how they hold up in heat and humidity. These tests show they stay solid and don’t crack or bend. Even in rough conditions, they keep their shape and strength.
Compared to other materials, they perform better. For example, they can resist fire for up to 4 hours. Gypsum boards only last 30–60 minutes in fire. Magnesium sulfate boards also don’t burn easily, making them safer.
Criteria | MgO Board | Gypsum Board | Cement Board | Fiber Cement Board |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Fire Resistance Rating | A1 Non-Combustible | Fire-Resistant | Highly Fire-Resistant | Fire-Resistant |
Thermal Combustibility | Non-Combustible | Combustible | Non-Combustible | Non-Combustible |
Fire Endurance | Very High (up to 4 hours) | Limited (30-60 minutes) | High (up to 2 hours) | Moderate (60-90 minutes) |
These qualities make them great for homes and buildings.
Environmental Benefits
Magnesium sulfate boards are eco-friendly and sustainable. They are made from natural magnesium oxide found in seawater. Making these boards creates less pollution and uses fewer resources. They also don’t leave much waste during installation.
Eco-friendly features:
Low pollution during production.
Can be recycled to cut down waste.
Long-lasting, so fewer replacements are needed.
Buildings cause 37% of global pollution. Using these boards helps the planet. They are durable, easy to use, and better for the environment.
Comparison with Other Construction Materials
Magnesium sulfate boards are better than many common materials. They are stronger and resist cracks more than Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC). For example, beams made with these boards bend less and hold up better under pressure. Cracks in these beams are smaller, showing they handle stress well.
Key benefits over other materials:
Twice as strong as OPC concrete.
Resist chemicals, lasting longer.
Fewer cracks, staying stable over time.
They also resist fire, mold, and water better than gypsum or fiber cement boards. These features make them a smart choice for modern building projects.
Common Uses of Magnesium Sulfate Boards
Walls, Ceilings, and Floors
Magnesium sulfate boards are great for walls, ceilings, and floors. They work well in bathrooms, kitchens, and wet places. These boards resist water and mold, keeping them strong. Their light weight makes ceiling installation easier. They also have smooth surfaces, perfect for painting or finishing.
For floors, these boards are tough and long-lasting. They can handle heavy use without breaking or bending. Their fire-resistant feature makes them safer for homes. Whether building or fixing spaces, these boards are reliable.
Good for Humid Areas
Magnesium sulfate boards are perfect for humid places. They don’t soak up much water, so they stay strong. Gypsum boards can swell or weaken, but these boards stay steady.
They stop mold and mildew, making them great for basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. You won’t have to worry about mold or damage from moisture. Even in wet areas, they keep their fire-resistant qualities, staying safe and durable.
Use in Businesses and Factories
Magnesium sulfate boards are useful in offices, hotels, malls, and schools. They resist fire and last a long time, meeting safety rules. They also look clean and professional.
In factories and warehouses, these boards handle heavy loads and tough conditions. They resist chemicals and are strong, making them good for industrial use. Their light weight makes them easy to install, saving time and effort.
These boards are also used for furniture, signs, and soundproofing. Their flexibility makes them helpful for many projects.
Type of Use | Examples |
|---|---|
Homes | Walls, ceilings, and floors; great for bathrooms and kitchens. |
Businesses | Offices, hotels, malls, hospitals, and schools; fire-resistant. |
Factories | Strong for warehouses and industrial spaces; resists chemicals. |
Other Uses | Furniture, signs, and soundproofing; easy to install and lightweight. |
Magnesium sulfate boards are versatile and dependable for homes and businesses.
Magnesium sulfate boards are made from magnesium oxide and magnesium sulfate. These boards are strong and useful for many building projects. They resist fire, water, and noise, making them a great choice. They last a long time in homes, offices, and factories. Their production is eco-friendly, helping the environment. Using these boards improves safety, strength, and sustainability in construction.
FAQ
What are magnesium sulfate boards made of?
Magnesium sulfate boards are made from magnesium oxide, magnesium sulfate, and fiberglass mesh. These materials make the boards light, strong, and fireproof. They are great for building projects needing strength and water resistance.
Are magnesium sulfate boards safe for homes?
Yes, they are very safe. These boards don’t burn, grow mold, or soak up water. Their fireproof feature makes them perfect for kitchens and bathrooms. They help keep your home safe and long-lasting.
How do magnesium sulfate boards compare to gypsum boards?
Magnesium sulfate boards are better than gypsum boards. They resist fire, water, and mold much better. Gypsum boards soak up water and swell, but magnesium sulfate boards stay strong in wet places.
Can magnesium sulfate boards be recycled?
Yes, they can be recycled. These boards are made from natural materials like magnesium oxide, which can be reused. Recycling helps reduce waste and is good for the planet.
Where can you use magnesium sulfate boards?
You can use them for walls, ceilings, and floors in homes, offices, and factories. They are great for wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Their fireproof and strong nature makes them useful for many spaces.