Magnesium carbonate
[CAS# 546-93-0]

Identification

• Classification: Inorganic chemical industry >> Inorganic salt >> Carbides and carbonates
• Name: Magnesium carbonate
• Synonyms: Magnesium carbonate anhydrous
• Molecular Formula: MgCO₃
• Molecular Weight: 84.31
• CAS Registry Number: 546-93-0
• EC Number: 208-915-9
• SMILES: C(=O)([O-])[O-].[Mg+2]

Properties

• Density: 3.0 g/cm³
• Melting point: 990 °C

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H302
• Safety Statements: P270-P301+P312-P330

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	2	H373
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H312

Discovery and Applications

Magnesium carbonate is a naturally occurring mineral that has been widely studied and used across various industries due to its versatility and abundance. It is typically found in nature in the form of magnesite (MgCO₃), which occurs in sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. The compound is known for its white, powdery appearance and its ability to decompose upon heating, releasing carbon dioxide and leaving magnesium oxide.

The discovery and identification of magnesium carbonate date back to the 18th century when researchers first began studying the chemical composition of minerals. Joseph Black, a Scottish chemist, was one of the early scientists who identified the role of carbon dioxide in the decomposition of carbonates, including magnesium carbonate. The mineral magnesite was later found to be a significant source of magnesium, leading to increased interest in its extraction and use.

Magnesium carbonate has a variety of applications, ranging from industrial to pharmaceutical. One of its most common uses is as a drying agent in the manufacture of glass and ceramics. Its ability to absorb moisture makes it useful in controlling humidity and improving the quality of the final products. Additionally, magnesium carbonate is used as a filler in rubber and plastics, where it enhances the material's strength and durability.

In the pharmaceutical and food industries, magnesium carbonate is often used as an antacid to neutralize stomach acid. Its basic properties allow it to relieve symptoms of indigestion and heartburn. The compound is also used as a drying agent in food packaging and as a firming agent in food processing. Another important application of magnesium carbonate is its use in sports, where athletes use it as a grip-enhancing chalk, particularly in climbing, gymnastics, and weightlifting.

References

2024. Electrochemical recovery of high-purity calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide from brine via carbon mineralization. MRS Bulletin.
DOI: 10.1557/s43577-024-00804-8

2017. Utilization of waste bittern from saltern as a source for magnesium and an absorbent for carbon dioxide capture. Environmental science and pollution research international, 24(26).
DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-9913-5

1993. Successful Control of Hyperparathyroidism in Patients on Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis Using Magnesium Carbonate and Calcium Carbonate as Phosphate Binders. Nephron, 65(4).
DOI: 10.1159/000187238