Product Description
Magnesium Sulfate Heptahydrate Product Description
Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate, commonly known as Epsom salt, is a chemically fascinating and industrially crucial compound with the molecular formula MgSO4·7H2O. This hydrated form of magnesium sulfate is renowned for its diverse applications across multiple sectors, ranging from agriculture and horticulture to pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial processes. Understanding its properties, production methods, and applications is essential for both manufacturers and end-users seeking to harness its potential effectively.
Chemical and Physical Properties
Chemical Structure
Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate consists of one magnesium ion (Mg²+), one sulfate ion (SO4²-), and seven water molecules bound in a crystalline lattice. The water molecules are coordinated with the magnesium ion, forming a stable structure that influences the compound's physical and chemical behavior. This hydrate form is not merely a mixture but a distinct chemical entity with properties different from anhydrous magnesium sulfate or other hydrates.
Appearance and Physical State
In its pure form, magnesium sulfate heptahydrate appears as colorless, monoclinic crystals or white, granular powder. The crystals are typically transparent and have a vitreous luster, giving them a visually appealing appearance. It is odorless, which makes it suitable for applications where scent is a concern, such as in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. The compound is highly soluble in water, with a solubility of approximately 26.9 g/100 mL at 20°C. This high solubility is a key property that enables its widespread use in various solution-based applications.
Melting and Dehydration Behavior
When heated, magnesium sulfate heptahydrate undergoes a series of dehydration reactions. At around 48°C, it starts to lose some of its water molecules, converting to lower hydrates like the pentahydrate (MgSO4·5H2O) and then the tetrahydrate (MgSO4·4H2O) as the temperature increases further. Complete dehydration to anhydrous magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) occurs at temperatures above 200°C. This dehydration behavior is crucial in industrial processes where controlling the water content of the compound is necessary.
Production Methods
Natural Deposits
One of the primary sources of magnesium sulfate heptahydrate is natural deposits. It can be found in various locations around the world, often associated with salt lakes, brine wells, and mineral springs. For example, in the United States, significant deposits are found in Utah's Great Salt Lake area. The extraction process typically involves pumping the brine containing magnesium sulfate to the surface, followed by evaporation to concentrate the solution. As the water evaporates, magnesium sulfate heptahydrate crystals precipitate out, which are then harvested, washed, and dried.
Chemical Synthesis
Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate can also be produced through chemical synthesis. One common method is the reaction between sulfuric acid (H2SO4) and magnesium-containing compounds such as magnesium oxide (MgO), magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2), or magnesium carbonate (MgCO3).
This reaction is highly exothermic, and proper safety measures must be taken during the synthesis process. The resulting solution is then filtered to remove any impurities, and the magnesium sulfate heptahydrate is crystallized through cooling or evaporation.
Quality Standards and Purity
The quality of magnesium sulfate heptahydrate is determined by several factors, including its purity, particle size, and moisture content. For industrial applications, a purity level of at least 99% is often required. Impurities such as heavy metals (e.g., lead, arsen c) must be present in extremely low concentrations to meet safety and regulatory standards, especially in applications related to food, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.
Particle size is another critical parameter. In applications like fertilizers, a specific particle size distribution is preferred to ensure even spreading and proper dissolution in soil or water. Manufacturers often control the particle size through processes such as grinding and sieving. Additionally, maintaining the correct moisture content is essential to prevent caking during storage and transportation.
Detailed Photos
Product Parameters
Industry Grade:
| TEST ITEMS |
TEST STANDARD |
TEST RESULT |
| PURITY |
≥99.5% |
99.60% |
| MAGNESIUM SULFATE (MgSO4) |
≥48.0% |
48.38% |
| MAGNESIUM OXIDE (MgO) |
≥16.0% |
16.22% |
| MAGNESIUM (Mg) |
≥9.8% |
9.86% |
| WATER INSOLUBLE |
≤0.10% |
0.01% |
| IRON (Fe) |
≤0.0015% |
0.0010% |
| HEAVY METAL (Pb) |
≤0.0001% |
0.0001% |
| PH VALUE |
5-8 |
6.2 |
| As |
≤0.0001% |
0.0001% |
| CHLORIDE |
≤0.0014% |
<0.0014% |
| CONCLUSION |
THE ABOVE PRODUCT COMPLIES WITH INDUSTRIAL GRADE |
Food Grade:
| ITEMS |
SPECIFICATIONS |
TEST RESULTS |
| Appearance |
White Powder |
complied |
| Color |
White |
complied |
| Main content(after ignition) |
≥99% |
99.36% |
| Chloride (Cl) |
<0.014% |
Complies |
| lron (Fe) |
<0.002% |
Complies |
| Heavy Metals (as Pb) |
<0.0008% |
Complies |
| As |
<0.0002% |
Complies |
| Water insoluble material |
≤0.1% |
Complies |
Application
agriculture printing and dyeing
leather-making water treatment
Applications
Agriculture and Horticulture
- Fertilizer and Soil Amendment
-
- Magnesium is an essential nutrient for plant growth, playing a crucial role in photosynthesis as it is a central component of chlorophyll. Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate is widely used as a fertilizer to correct magnesium deficiencies in soil. It provides both magnesium and sulfur, two elements that are vital for plant metabolism. When applied to soil, it helps improve soil structure, increases water-holding capacity, and enhances the availability of other nutrients to plants.
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- In horticulture, it is commonly used in potted plants, greenhouse crops, and nurseries. For example, tomato plants often benefit from magnesium sulfate applications, as it can increase fruit yield and improve fruit quality by enhancing the plant's ability to produce sugars and other essential compounds.
- Animal Feed Additive
-
- Magnesium is also important for animal health. In livestock farming, magnesium sulfate heptahydrate is added to animal feed to prevent magnesium deficiencies, which can lead to various health issues such as grass tetany in cattle. It helps maintain proper nerve function, muscle contraction, and bone health in animals. The compound is easily incorporated into animal feed formulations due to its solubility and stability.
Cosmetics and Personal Care
- Skin Care Products
-
- Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate is used in various skin care products such as body scrubs, masks, and moisturizers. In body scrubs, the granular form of the compound acts as a gentle exfoliant, removing dead skin cells and revealing smoother, healthier - looking skin. It also has the ability to draw moisture to the skin, making it beneficial for dry skin conditions. In masks and moisturizers, it helps improve the texture and appearance of the skin by promoting cell renewal and enhancing skin hydration.
- Hair Care Products
-
- Some hair care formulations include magnesium sulfate heptahydrate to improve hair texture and manageability. It can help reduce frizz, add shine, and strengthen hair strands. Additionally, it may have a detoxifying effect on the scalp, removing buildup and promoting a healthier scalp environment for hair growth.
Industrial Applications
- Textile Industry
-
- In the textile industry, magnesium sulfate heptahydrate is used as a mordant in dyeing processes. A mordant helps fix the dye to the fabric, improving colorfastness and ensuring even color distribution. It forms a complex with the dye molecules and the fabric fibers, enhancing the bonding between them. This results in more vibrant and long - lasting colors on textiles.
- Paper Industry
-
- The compound is used in the paper industry as a filler and sizing agent. As a filler, it helps improve the opacity and brightness of paper, making it more suitable for printing and writing. As a sizing agent, it reduces the absorbency of paper, preventing ink from bleeding and smudging during printing.
- Chemical Manufacturing
-
- Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate serves as a raw material in the production of other magnesium - based compounds. For example, it can be used to produce anhydrous magnesium sulfate, which is used in the manufacturing of fireproof materials, rubber, and various chemicals. It is also involved in the synthesis of other salts and chemical intermediates.
Storage and Handling
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Storage and Handling
Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and sources of heat. Exposure to high temperatures can cause dehydration, altering its chemical and physical properties. It should be kept in tightly sealed containers to prevent moisture absorption, which can lead to caking. When handling the compound, appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and goggles should be worn, especially in industrial settings where large quantities are used. Although it is generally considered non - hazardous, direct contact with eyes or prolonged skin contact should be avoided.
In conclusion, magnesium sulfate heptahydrate is a versatile and valuable compound with a wide range of applications across numerous industries. Its unique chemical and physical properties, combined with efficient production methods, make it an essential material in modern agriculture, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial processes. As research continues to uncover new potential uses, the importance of this compound is likely to grow in the future.
Packaging & Shipping
Packaging:
25kg bag 50kg bag 1000kg jumbo bag
in container in bulk carrier
Company Profile
Shandong Jiuchong Chemical Company Limited was founded in 2016, which is located in Weifang City, Shandong Province, China. We have 228 square meters of office space. Now Jiuchong chemical is a large modern international chemical enterprise with more than 28 series. Since our establishment, the company has gradually established and improved a sound supply chain system, quality monitoring system and service system, ensuring products quality and service.
At the same time, relying on our own geographical location and resource advantages, our company is committed to the optimization of a variety of chemical supply chain, including magnesium chloride, sodium metabisulfite, sodium bicarbonate, calcium chloride, magnesium sulfate, polyaluminium chloride, aluminium sulfate, industrial salt, soda ash etc.
Our products are sold well in 288 domestic cities and more than 36 foreign countries. Now the company has won the praise and trust of domestic and foreign customers. Based on stable quality and output, good team service and staff efforts, we will continue to develop domestic and foreign markets.
Jiuchong chemical takes "integrity, innovation and development" as the concept, puts integrity in the priority position in serving customers, and guarantees high quality products and satisfactory cooperation for customers experience. Your satisfaction is our driving force. Quality is the soul of enterprise and that is what we have always done. In the future, Shandong Jiuchong Chemical Company Limited hopes to build a brilliant tomorrow with you!
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