Magnesium Hydroxide [Mg(OH)₂] – Key Uses & Applications
Magnesium hydroxide is a versatile compound with applications in medicine, industry, food, and environmental management. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its uses:
1. Magnesium hydroxide application Medical & Pharmaceutical Uses
Antacid
Relieves heartburn & indigestion by neutralizing stomach acid (pH ~10.5).
Found in Milk of Magnesia (a liquid suspension).
Laxative
Draws water into the intestines to soften stool and relieve constipation.
Works within 30 minutes to 6 hours (dose-dependent).
Dental & Skincare
Mild abrasive in toothpaste (whitening agent).
Used in antiperspirants & deodorants for pH control.
2. Magnesium hydroxide application Industrial & Chemical Uses
Flame Retardant
Added to plastics, cables, and building materials.
When heated (>350°C), it decomposes into magnesium oxide (MgO) + water vapor, cooling flames.
Wastewater & Pollution Control
Neutralizes acidic industrial wastewater (e.g., mining runoff).
Removes sulfur dioxide (SO₂) from smokestack emissions (flue gas desulfurization).
Precursor to Magnesium Oxide (MgO)
Used in refractory materials (high-temperature linings for furnaces).
3. Magnesium hydroxide application Food & Agriculture
Food Additive (E528)
pH regulator in processed foods (e.g., cheese, cocoa products).
Prevents clumping in powdered foods.
Agriculture & Animal Feed
Corrects acidic soil (raises pH for better crop growth).
Magnesium supplement in livestock feed.
4. Magnesium hydroxide application Environmental & Other Uses
Oil & Gas Industry: Drilling fluid additive.
Battery Manufacturing: Used in some nickel-metal hydride batteries.
Safety & Side Effects
Magnesium hydrate Generally safe in regulated doses (FDA-approved for antacids & food).
Magnesium hydrate Overuse as a laxative → diarrhea, electrolyte imbalance.
Magnesium hydrate Inhalation risk (industrial workers should use masks).
Magnesium hydrate [Mg(OH)₂] is a versatile compound with key uses in medicine, industry, and environmental applications. In healthcare, Magnesium hydrate serves as an antacid (e.g., Milk of Magnesia) to neutralize stomach acid and relieve heartburn, while its laxative properties help treat constipation. Industrially, Magnesium hydrate acts as a flame retardant in plastics and construction materials by releasing water vapor when heated, suppressing fires. Magnesium hydrate also neutralizes acidic wastewater and flue gases in pollution control. In agriculture, Magnesium hydrate corrects soil acidity and supplements animal feed. Approved as a food additive (E528), Magnesium hydroxide prevents clumping in powdered products. Though generally safe, overuse can cause digestive side effects. Magnesium hydrate's low toxicity and multifunctional properties make it valuable across diverse fields.