Hobbies And Interests
History
Magnesium oxide is a naturally occurring compound found in the mineral called periclase. The Chinese combined magnesium oxide with their terracotta statues and their mortar in the Great Wall of China. The Romans also used the compound in their cement, which was naturally produced by volcanic activity.
Modern Production: Magnesium Carbonate
Magnesium oxide is produced by combining magnesium carbonate, which is mined, with a brine of magnesium chloride and seawater. The mixture is heated between 700 degrees Celsius and 1,000 degrees Celsius, producing magnesium oxide and carbon dioxide gas.
Modern Production: Natural Brines Part 1
Sources of underground magnesium chloride exist 2,500 feet below the surface. The company combines this magnesium chloride brine with calcium oxide (also known as lime) and extreme heat to produce calcined dolime.
Modern Production: Natural Brines Part 2
The calcined dolime is combined with a magnesium chloride and calcium chloride solution, creating a magnesium hydroxide and calcium chloride solution. The magnesium hydroxide is allowed to settle to the bottom.
Modern Production: Natural Brines Part 3
After the magnesium hydroxide settles to the bottom, the water is filtered, leaving a sediment. The sediment is washed to remove any chlorides. After several washes, the white cake is heated, which cooks any water out as steam, leaving behind magnesium hydroxide.