Magnesium oxide, commonly referred to as magnesia, is a white solid mineral compound with the chemical formula MgO. It is obtained from the calcination of magnesium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide. Magnesium oxide is utilized in a variety of applications due to its high melting point, chemical stability, and alkaline properties.
In agriculture, it is used as a supplement to correct magnesium deficiencies in soil. In medicine, magnesium oxide is employed as an antacid to relieve heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach. Additionally, it serves as a component in the manufacturing of refractory bricks for high-temperature furnaces, as well as in the production of electrical insulation materials and in the construction industry as a component in cement formulations.
Commercially, magnesium oxide is available in various grades and particle sizes depending on its intended application, ranging from fine powders to granules.