Gypsum board is softer and more easily cut due to its lower hardness and bending strength, and it is also typically more affordable in price. MgO board, also known as magnesium oxide board, offers superior performance in terms of fire resistance, waterproofing, and bending strength, but it is more expensive.
Moisture Resistance
Magnesium oxide boards exhibit a remarkable surface moisture absorption rate of 0.34%, starkly contrasting the 3% absorption rate of gypsum boards. This significant difference highlights the magnesium boards’ superior resistance to water and moisture. Gypsum boards, conversely, are highly vulnerable to water damage due to their high water absorption capacity, which can lead to board deterioration even from minimal water exposure.
Fire Resistance
Magnesium Oxide and Gypsum boards are both non-combustible, but magnesium oxide boards hold a distinct advantage. With a thickness of over 3 mm, magnesium oxide boards meet fire safety standards, whereas gypsum boards require a thickness of up to 12 mm to meet the same standards. The fire resistance of magnesium oxide boards is exemplified by their exceptional performance in rigorous tests, such as the ASTM E136-16A test, where they remained unaltered at 750°C.
Density
Magnesium oxide boards boast a low density of 0.85–1.2 g/cm3, contributing to their lightweight nature. The inclusion of glass fiber in these boards provides them with both strength and reduced weight. In comparison, gypsum boards have a density range of 1.2-1.3 g/cm3, necessitating higher density to match the strength of magnesium oxide boards at a lower density.
Impact Strength
MgO boards exhibit a high impact strength of 4.5 kilo Joules or greater, thanks to their fiberglass mesh composition. This attribute is crucial for withstanding sudden and intense impacts without compromising their form. Gypsum boards, containing paper fibers, have an impact strength of only 1 kilo Joule, making them more susceptible to cracks, breaks, and deformation.
Bending Strength
Bending strength, also known as flexural strength, refers to a material’s ability to withstand loads without bending or deforming. Magnesium oxide boards offer an impressive bending strength of 18-27 MPa, which is a result of their fibrous structure and fiberglass content. Gypsum boards, however, have a lower bending strength of 5.6 MPa or less, primarily due to their paper fiber composition.
Environmental Impact
Both magnesium oxide and gypsum boards are environmentally friendly, as they do not emit toxic chemicals. The manufacturing process of magnesium oxide boards, however, consumes less fuel than that of gypsum boards, making them not only cost-effective but also more environmentally friendly.
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