Magnesium chloride hexahydrate, or MgCl2.6H2O, is a chloride, which is a colorless and deliquescent crystal. Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate is usually extracted from salt water or seawater containing 6 molecules of crystal water. When heated to 95°C, it will lose its crystal water. Above 135°C, it is also a common substance in oral magnesium supplements.
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Magnesium chloride hexahydrate, with the chemical formula MgCl2·6H2O, finds several applications across different industries and everyday uses:
Deicing Agent: One of the primary uses of magnesium chloride hexahydrate is as a deicing agent for roads, sidewalks, and parking lots during winter. It lowers the freezing point of water, preventing the formation of ice and snow and improving traction on icy surfaces.
Dust Control: This type of inorganic salts is utilized as a dust suppressant for roads and construction sites. When applied to dusty surfaces, magnesium chloride helps bind the particles together, reducing airborne dust and improving air quality.
Concrete Additive: In the construction industry, magnesium chloride hexahydrate is added to concrete mixes to accelerate the setting time and improve workability, particularly in cold weather conditions.
Soil Stabilization: Magnesium chloride hexahydrate is used in soil stabilization applications to enhance the stability and strength of soil surfaces, such as unpaved roads and parking lots.
Fire Retardant: Magnesium chloride hexahydrate is sometimes used as a fire retardant, particularly in fireproofing wood and textiles. It can help inhibit the spread of flames and reduce the combustibility of materials.
Nutritional Supplement: In some cases, magnesium chloride hexahydrate is used as a dietary supplement to provide magnesium, an essential mineral important for various bodily functions, including nerve and muscle function, bone health, and energy metabolism.
Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate exists in a solid state. Its chemical formula is MgCl₂·6H₂O, indicating that it is a hydrated form of magnesium chloride. In this hexahydrate form, each magnesium chloride molecule is associated with six water molecules, forming a stable crystalline structure. The hexahydrate crystals are usually in the form of white or colorless granules or flakes.
Yes, Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate is commonly used as a de-icing agent, and it is considered safe when used according to recommended guidelines. Compared to traditional de-icing salts like sodium chloride (rock salt), magnesium chloride has several advantages. It is effective at lower temperatures, causes less damage to concrete and metal surfaces, and is less harmful to vegetation.
However, as with any de-icing agent, excessive use can potentially impact the environment, and it is essential to follow application rates and guidelines to minimize environmental effects.
Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate is also employed for dust control on roads. When applied to unpaved surfaces, such as gravel or dirt roads, it absorbs moisture from the air, forming a solution that binds the surface particles together. This creates a stable and compacted surface that reduces the generation of dust.
The hygroscopic nature of magnesium chloride helps to retain moisture in the road surface, preventing the release of airborne dust particles. Additionally, magnesium chloride is effective at lower application rates compared to some other dust suppressants.
