Technical Specifications
- Material Name
- Product: Magnesium Nanopowder
- Chemical Formula: Mg
- CAS Number: 7439-95-4
- Purity
- Grade: 99% (metal basis)
- Impurities: ≤1% (trace levels of oxides, other metals, or non-metallic elements)
- Particle Size
- Average Size: ~800 nm (submicron range)
- Particle Size Distribution: Typically determined by SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) or other particle-size analysis methods
- Morphology
- Shape: Near-spherical or irregular, depending on synthesis route
- Surface Area: Higher than bulk magnesium, though lower than smaller (<100 nm) nanoparticles
- Crystal Structure
- Phase: Hexagonal Close-Packed (hcp)
- Possible Variations: Minor differences in crystallinity may arise due to manufacturing and processing conditions
- Physical and Chemical Properties
- Color: Silvery-gray metallic powder
- Bulk Density: Lower than that of fully dense magnesium due to submicron particle agglomeration
- Melting Point: ~650 °C
- Boiling Point: ~1,090 °C
- Reactivity: Magnesium is highly reactive, especially in fine powder form; easily oxidized and can be combustible in air
- Packaging and Storage
- Standard Packaging: Sealed under inert atmosphere (e.g., argon) or vacuum-sealed to minimize oxidation
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place; keep away from moisture and air
- Shelf Life: Stable if sealed properly; surface oxidation may occur if exposed to ambient conditions
- Safety and Handling
- Hazards:
- Fine magnesium powder can ignite spontaneously (pyrophoric tendencies) in air, especially when heated or exposed to friction
- Inhalation of dust can irritate the respiratory tract
- Recommended Protective Measures:
- Use appropriate PPE (gloves, goggles, respirator)
- Handle under inert or controlled atmosphere to reduce risk of ignition and oxidation
- Hazards:
Applications
- Metallurgy and Alloying
- Alloy Additions: Magnesium is often used as an alloying element to lighten and strengthen metals (e.g., aluminum–magnesium alloys)
- Powder Metallurgy: Submicron magnesium can refine microstructures and enhance mechanical properties in certain alloy systems
- Energy Storage
- Hydrogen Storage: Magnesium can absorb hydrogen to form hydrides; nanoscale particles may exhibit faster kinetics and lower desorption temperatures
- Battery Anodes (Experimental): Magnesium is under research as a potential high-energy-density anode material
- Pyrotechnics and Propellants
- Ignition Components: Magnesium powder is a key component in flares, fireworks, and propellants due to its bright, intense burn
- Fuel Additive: Can improve combustion characteristics in certain solid fuels
- Chemical Synthesis
- Reducing Agent: Magnesium’s strong reducing capabilities are useful in various organic and inorganic syntheses
- Catalysis: Nanoscale magnesium may serve as a support or co-catalyst in specialty chemical processes
- Automotive and Aerospace
- Lightweight Materials: Magnesium is valued for its low density; submicron powders can be used in advanced composites for weight reduction and improved strength-to-weight ratios
- Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)
- Magnesium-Based Powders: Investigated for specialty 3D printing processes that aim to produce lightweight, high-strength components
In Summary
Magnesium Nanopowder (Mg, 99%, 800 nm) is a submicron, high-purity form of magnesium recognized for its lightweight, highly reactive nature. Although the 800 nm size is relatively large for “nano” classification, it still provides greater surface area and reactivity than bulk magnesium. Common applications include alloying, hydrogen storage research, pyrotechnics, and advanced materials. Proper inert-atmosphere storage and careful handling are imperative to ensure both user safety and product integrity.