Brucite [Chemical formula: Mg(OH)?] is a natural mineral with high magnesium content and rich in crystalline water. When heated to 340°C, it begins to decompose into MgO, releasing a large amount of water vapor. [Crystal Chemistry] Theoretical composition: MgO 69.12%, H?O 30.88%;
It often contains impurities such as Fe, Mn, Zn, and Ni in isomorphic forms. It has a layered structure and belongs to the trigonal crystal system. Single crystals are thick and plate-like, while common forms are flaky aggregates;
Fibrous aggregates are known as nemalite. Brucite has a Mohs hardness of 2.5, a density of 2.3-2.6, and a whiteness of over 90%.
Uses of Brucite:
Production of magnesium hydroxide flame retardants; Manufacturing asbestos-free insulation materials; Refractory materials for protective layers in nuclear reactors of nuclear power plants; Coatings for magnesium-based welding electrodes; Thermal insulation materials; Corrosion inhibitors for fuel combustion; Fillers in the paper industry; Production of lightly burned magnesia and dead burned magnesia; Neutralizing agents for acidic wastewater, adsorption of heavy metals, and flue gas desulfurization;