About Magnesium Oxide

Magnesium Oxide, commonly referred to as magnesia, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula MgO. It typically appears as a white, odourless, fine powder or granule and is insoluble in water but soluble in acid. Magnesium oxide is produced by the calcination of naturally occurring magnesium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide, where the raw material is heated to high temperatures to drive off carbon dioxide or water, respectively, leaving behind pure MgO. The product may vary in reactivity depending on the calcination temperature, with grades ranging from light to heavy or reactive to dead-burned magnesia.

Magnesium oxide is used across a broad spectrum of industries thanks to its chemical stability, thermal resistance, and alkaline properties. It finds application in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, refractory materials, construction, environmental remediation, and animal nutrition. Its ability to neutralise acids, absorb moisture, and resist high temperatures makes it a critical material in both chemical formulations and physical processes.

Magnesium Oxide Uses

Animal Nutrition

Magnesium oxide is commonly included in livestock feed formulations as a magnesium supplement. It helps maintain proper nerve and muscle function in animals and is especially important for preventing deficiencies in ruminants such as cattle and sheep. Its high bioavailability and ease of blending with other feed ingredients make it a preferred source of supplemental magnesium.

Refractory & High-Temperature Applications

Due to its excellent thermal resistance, magnesium oxide is a key material in the manufacture of refractory bricks, crucibles, and furnace linings used in steel, cement, and glass production. Dead-burned magnesia, in particular, is valued for its structural stability and ability to withstand extreme temperatures without decomposition or deformation.

Environmental & Industrial Uses

Magnesium oxide is used in flue gas treatment, wastewater neutralisation, and soil remediation. Its alkaline nature allows it to neutralise acidic by-products and stabilise heavy metals, making it suitable for treating contaminated sites and industrial effluents. It is also used to adjust pH in various chemical processes.

Construction Materials

In the construction industry, magnesium oxide is used in the production of cement, wallboards, and fire-resistant panels. It improves strength, fire resistance, and durability while offering a more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional Portland cement in some applications.

Pharmaceuticals & Personal Care

Pharmaceutical-grade magnesium oxide is used as an antacid and laxative in over-the-counter medications. It is also found in personal care products like toothpaste, where it acts as a gentle abrasive and pH stabiliser. Its safety and effectiveness make it suitable for a variety of human health applications.

Magnesium Oxide Supplier Australia, USA & More!

Redox are trusted, authorised suppliers of magnesium oxide. With distribution centres worldwide, we can supply to Australia, USA, UK, NZ, Europe, Asia and more. Get in touch with our expert team, who can help you order the right product, form and amount for your needs.