Jun 14 2013
Nanoparticles are used, or being evaluated for use, in many domains such as biology, physics, chemistry, cosmetics, optical components, polymer science, pharmaceutical drug manufacture, toxicology, and mechanical engineering.
This article discusses the properties and applications of magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles. Magnesium is a Block S, Period 3 element, hydrogen is a Block S, Period 1 element, and oxygen is a Block P, Period 2 element. Magnesium can be commercially produced from carnallite, dolomite, brucite, magnesite, olivine and talc.
Magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles appear in a white powder form, and have a low toxicitym making them attractive for use in applications where environmental exposure may be an issue. Pure magnesium hydroxide nanopowder, like many fine powders, is graded as an irritant and can cause some skin, eyes, and breathing irritations.
Chemical Properties
The chemical properties of magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles are outlined in the following table.
| Chemical Data |
| Chemical symbol |
Mg(OH)2 |
| CAS No. |
1309-42-8 |
| Group |
Magnesium 2
Hydrogen 1
Oxygen 16 |
| Electronic configuration |
Magnesium [Ne] 3s2
Hydrogen 1s1
Oxygen [He] 2s2 2p4 |
| Chemical Composition |
| Element |
Content (%) |
| Magnesium |
|
| Hydrogen |
|
| Oxygen |
|
Physical Properties
The physical properties of magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles are given in the following table.
| Properties |
Metric |
Imperial |
| Density |
2.34 g/cm3 |
0.084 lb/in3 |
| Molar mass |
58.83 g/mol |
- |
Thermal Properties
The thermal properties of magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles are provided in the table below.
| Properties |
Metric |
Imperial |
| Melting point |
350°C |
662°F |
Applications
The key applications of magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles are as follows:
- As a flame retardant in various polymer compositions
- As a precursor for magnesium oxide refractory ceramics
- Can be evenly dispersed in PA, PP, ABS, PVC, and other rubber and plastic products
- As smoke suppressants
- As a non-hazardous alkali to neutralize acidic wastewaters.
- In the biorock method for building artificial reefs
Source: AZoNano