Magnesium phosphate
[CAS# 7757-87-1]

Identification

• Classification: Inorganic chemical industry >> Inorganic salt >> Phosphides, metal phosphoric acid, metaphosphoric acid, hypophosphorous acid and pyrophosphate
• Name: Magnesium phosphate
• Synonyms: Trimagnesium bis(orthophosphate)
• Molecular Formula: Mg3(PO₄)₂
• Molecular Weight: 262.86
• CAS Registry Number: 7757-87-1
• EC Number: 231-824-0
• SMILES: [O-]P(=O)([O-])[O-].[O-]P(=O)([O-])[O-].[Mg+2].[Mg+2].[Mg+2]

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H302-H315-H319-H335
• Safety Statements: P261-P305+P351+P338

Discovery and Applications

Magnesium phosphate compounds have been known and used since ancient times, although the specific discovery date varies for compounds in this category. Chemically, magnesium phosphate comes in several forms, with tribasic magnesium phosphate (Mg3(PO4)2), also known as magnesium orthophosphate, being the most common form found in nature, especially in mineral deposits.

Magnesium phosphate is essential for bone formation and maintaining bone density. It provides magnesium required for calcium absorption and phosphate required for bone mineralization. Supplements containing magnesium phosphate can be used to support bone health and prevent osteoporosis. As a component of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), magnesium phosphate plays a vital role in cellular energy metabolism. It participates in ATP hydrolysis and phosphate transfer reactions to provide energy for various biochemical processes in the body.

Magnesium phosphate compounds are important components of fertilizers and provide essential nutrients for plants. They provide magnesium that is essential for chlorophyll formation and photosynthesis, as well as phosphates that support root development and overall plant growth.

In water treatment processes, magnesium phosphate is used as a coagulant and flocculant. It helps to form larger particles for easier filtration, thereby removing pollutants and impurities from water. This application is essential to ensure safe and clean drinking water.

Magnesium phosphate compounds are used as excipients and active ingredients in pharmaceutical formulations. They are used in medicines to help keep pH levels stable due to their buffering properties, and as dietary supplements to treat magnesium deficiency.

In ceramic and glass manufacturing, magnesium phosphate acts as a flux. It lowers the melting point of the material, improves its workability, and enhances the properties of the finished product, such as tiles, pottery, and glassware. Magnesium phosphate compounds are used as flame retardants for a variety of materials. They suppress the combustion process by releasing water vapor and diluting combustible gases, thereby reducing the spread of fire and protecting structures and materials.

References

2011. Novel magnesium phosphate cements with high early strength and antibacterial properties. Acta Biomaterialia.
DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2010.12.008

2020. Preparation of high-purity magnesium-ammonium-phosphate fertilizer using sea bittern and industrial waste streams. Environmental science and pollution research international, 27(3).
DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-07445-4

2011. Catalytic Asymmetric Aza-Darzens Reaction with a Vaulted Biphenanthrol Magnesium Phosphate Salt. Organic Letters, 13(7).
DOI: 10.1021/ol200407r