Brucite: Properties and Industrial Applications
Brucite is a naturally occurring mineral composed of magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)₂). Brucite typically forms in fibrous, foliated, or granular masses and is found in metamorphic rocks, serpentine deposits, and as an alteration product of peridotite. Due to its high magnesium content, low impurities, and unique chemical properties, brucite has become an important industrial mineral with diverse applications.
1. Flame Retardant Applications
Brucite is widely used as an eco-friendly, non-toxic flame retardant, particularly in industries seeking alternatives to halogen-based compounds.
How Brucite Works:
When heated above 300°C, Mag hydroxide for Composite board undergoes endothermic decomposition, releasing water vapor (H₂O) and forming magnesium oxide (MgO).
The released water dilutes flammable gases, while the MgO residue forms a protective, heat-resistant layer.
Key Uses:
√ Plastics & Polymers – Plastic Grade Magnesium Hydroxide Added to cables, wires, and automotive parts to improve fire resistance.
√ Rubber & Textiles – Plastic Grade Magnesium Hydroxide Enhances flame retardancy in conveyor belts, insulation materials, and fireproof fabrics.
√ Construction Materials – Plastic Grade Magnesium Hydroxide Used in fire-resistant panels, coatings, and sealants.
Advantages over Synthetic Flame Retardants:
Plastic Grade Magnesium Hydroxide No toxic fumes (unlike brominated or chlorinated retardants).
Plastic Grade Magnesium Hydroxide Cost-effective and naturally abundant.
2. Environmental & Wastewater Treatment
Brucite’s alkaline nature (pH ~10.5) makes it valuable for:
A. Acid Neutralization
Magnesium Hydroxide For Dyeing Sewage Treats acidic mine drainage (AMD) and industrial wastewater.
Magnesium Hydroxide For Dyeing Sewage More efficient than lime (CaO) in some cases due to its higher neutralizing capacity per unit weight.
B. Heavy Metal Removal
Magnesium Hydroxide For Dyeing Sewage Precipitates toxic metals (e.g., Pb, Cd, Cu, Ni) as insoluble hydroxides.
Magnesium Hydroxide For Dyeing Sewage Used in electroplating, battery recycling, and contaminated soil remediation.
3. Agricultural Uses
A. Soil Amendment
Corrects soil acidity (raises pH) and supplies magnesium, a vital nutrient for chlorophyll production.
Preferred over dolomite in magnesium-deficient soils.
B. Animal Feed Supplement
Mag hydroxide for Composite board Provides bioavailable Mg to prevent grass tetany (a magnesium deficiency disorder in livestock).
4. Cosmetics & Pharmaceuticals
A. Antacids & Medicinal Uses
Mild alkali used in indigestion remedies (similar to milk of magnesia).
B. Personal Care Products
Brucite Acts as a pH adjuster in:
Deodorants (neutralizes odor-causing acids).
Skin creams & lotions (soothes irritation).
5. Construction & Cement Industry
Brucite-based magnesium oxychloride cement offers:
Mag hydroxide for Composite boardRapid hardening (used in fireproof flooring and repair mortars).
Mag hydroxide for Composite board High bond strength (for decorative panels and artificial marble).
6. Asbestos Substitute (Fibrous Brucite)
Some fibrous brucite varieties can replace asbestos in:
Gaskets, brake linings, and insulation (with proper safety measures to avoid inhalation risks).