People are looking for alternatives to cement, and one of them is the magnesia binder. In its simplest form, it is a binder composed of caustic magnesium oxide and an aqueous solution of magnesium salts, preferably chloride or sulfate.
The Great Wall of China and the Roman Empire represent the earliest uses of magnesia mixed with mortar. In the 20th century, the use of magnesia declined as builders turned to cheaper options such as cement and other similar materials. Magnesia binder, also called Sorel cement, is based on magnesium oxide proposed by French engineer C. Sorel in 1866.
Magnesium oxide (or magnesia) is a material that is increasingly used in construction. Magnesia is a versatile mineral that can be used as part of a cement mixer and can be molded into thin cement boards and cured. Magnesium oxide board is a sheet building and design material based on magnesia binder. It is composed of caustic magnesite, magnesium chloride, expanded perlite, and fiberglass as reinforcing material.
Mgo boards are mainly used as a construction substrate in the manufacture of building facades, both in the construction of
building facades, both in new construction, and in the repair of existing objects. Also, in some cases, magnesium sheets are used as a rain screen. In addition, sometimes magnesium sheets can serve as a base for the application of gypsum.
It is also used in various other construction applications, such as fascia, soffits, wall sheathing, and tile backing material. It has no paper face and is available in a variety of sizes to suit the application. MGO board is open in several finishes, including smooth face, rough face, utility, and a range of different densities.
Uses include:
- Firewall
- Partitions
- Cladding
- Tile backing
- Shaft liners
- Ceilings
- Ceilings
- Fascia
Mgo boards work the same way as drywall or oriented strand board or any other board product. Builders do not need special tools to cut, nail, score, break, screw, or hang magnesium boards from wood or steel framing. Panels come in thicknesses from 3 to 20 millimeters, and surfaces offered include the rough-textured, smooth face, versatile and practical styles. Magnesium oxide board is slightly absorbent, which means it is paintable and bondable to the surface. Contractors can finish the panels with paint (only two coats), concrete, and wallpaper.
Mgo boards are environmentally benign and have several beneficial health and safety features for homeowners and contractors compared to more traditional building materials. In addition, MgO production is energy efficient and produces few greenhouse gases. This is a potential factor in the material’s growing popularity.
Magnesium oxide board has many attractive qualities. It has excellent fire-retardant attributes and has a UL 055 rating and an A+ rating from the ATSM. The boards do not spread flames or smoke. It is energy efficient to produce, reduces waste, and captures carbon dioxide during production. Beyond that, the boards’ fungus resistance does not attract rot, fungi, allergens, or mold. It is 20 to 30 percent lighter than other cement-based boards. Contractors and do-it-yourselfers find it easy to use because of its lightweight.
