Magnesium aluminate (MgAl₂O₄) is an inorganic compound that is a combination of magnesium oxide (MgO) and aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). It is most commonly found in the form of a solid, often as a spinel mineral, which is a type of crystal structure shared by various metal oxides. Magnesium aluminate is widely used in ceramics, catalysis, and refractory materials due to its unique properties.
Chemical Formula: MgAl₂O₄
Crystal Structure: Magnesium aluminate crystallizes in the spinel structure, a cubic close-packed arrangement of oxygen ions, with magnesium and aluminum cations occupying interstitial sites. This structure contributes to its high thermal stability and mechanical properties.
Molecular Ratio: The ratio of magnesium to aluminum in MgAl₂O₄ is 1:2, with oxygen forming a stable lattice structure around the metal cations.
High Thermal Stability: MgAl₂O₄ is highly stable at elevated temperatures, making it suitable for use in high-temperature applications such as ceramics and refractories. It has a high melting point (around 2,050°C), which contributes to its use in high-performance materials.
Hardness: Magnesium aluminate is relatively hard, with a hardness of about 8 on the Mohs scale. This makes it useful as an abrasive material and in applications requiring wear resistance.
Electrical Insulator: MgAl₂O₄ is an excellent electrical insulator, which makes it suitable for use in electronic and electrical applications that require non-conductive materials.
Corrosion Resistance: It is resistant to corrosion and chemical attack, which makes it ideal for use in aggressive environments, such as in the chemical or petrochemical industries.
Optical Properties: Magnesium aluminate is transparent to ultraviolet (UV) light and is used in some optical applications, particularly for UV-transparent windows.
Refractories and Ceramics: Magnesium aluminate is widely used in the production of high-performance refractory materials and ceramics due to its high melting point and resistance to thermal shock. It is used in furnaces, kilns, and other high-temperature environments.
Catalysis: MgAl₂O₄ is used as a catalyst support in various chemical processes, such as in petroleum refining or for producing synthetic fuels. It provides a stable surface for catalytic reactions.
Abrasives: Due to its hardness, magnesium aluminate is used as an abrasive in grinding and polishing applications, such as in the production of cutting tools and polishing agents.
Optical Applications: As a UV-transparent material, magnesium aluminium oxide is used in optical devices and coatings, particularly in high-precision optical components.
Magnetic Materials: MgAl₂O₄, in its spinel form, has been explored for use in magnetic applications, such as in the production of ferrites, which are materials used in electronics and magnets.
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Every batch of our materials is independently tested, and, if necessary, we send samples to certified companies for testing. We provide these documents and analysis certificates with the shipment to certify that our products meet the required standards.
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