Magnesium is the eighth most abundant metal in the Earth's crust and the fourth most common structural metal. Magnesium is an essential mineral and life requires magnesium for numerous biochemical reactions and processes in the body. Despite this, magnesium often does not receive the same level of attention as other important minerals. This article explores the properties and uses of magnesium metal along with its importance for human health.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Magnesium is a silvery-white metal that is light in weight. In fact, magnesium is the lightest structural metal. Its density is only about two-thirds that of aluminium. Magnesium is highly flammable and its reactivity increases when powdered or in a molten state. It burns with a brilliant white light when ignited. Magnesium has a hexagonal close-packed crystal structure and is quite ductile and readily machined.
Some key physical and chemical properties of magnesium include:
- Atomic number 12
- Atomic weight 24.31 g/mol
- Melting point 649°C (1200°F)
- Boiling point 1090°C (1994°F)
- Specific gravity 1.738 g/cm3 at 20°C
- Reacts with oxygen, water and acids
- Strong reducing agent
- Paramagnetic
Common Compounds and Alloys
Magnesium readily forms compounds with other elements. Two common compounds are magnesium oxide (MgO) and magnesium chloride (MgCl2). Magnesium oxide or magnesia is a white hygroscopic solid used as a refractory material and in production of magnesium metal. Magnesium chloride is often used for deicing and dust control.
Common alloys include:
- Magnesium alloys: Used in aircraft and automotive applications due to high strength-to-weight ratio. Examples include Elektron 21, AJ62, and AM60.
- Magnalium: An alloy of magnesium and aluminium often used where lightweight strength is required.
- Magnesium-lithium alloys: Very lightweight and have potential aerospace applications.
Uses and Applications
The main uses of magnesium take advantage of its high strength-to-weight ratio and machinability. Some key applications include:
Automotive
- Parts for engines due to high temperature stability. Used in timing gears, chain guides, and water pumps.
- Parts for manual transmissions.
Aerospace
- Parts for aircraft engines, airframes, and landing gear due to corrosion resistance. Over 60 lbs of magnesium used in an average Boeing 767.
Electronics
- Components for laptops, digital cameras, and cell phones to reduce weight.
Sports and Recreation Equipment
- Bikes, racquets, clubs, frames, and other sporting goods.
Construction
- Sheets used in walls and windows due to fire resistance.
Health and Importance
Magnesium plays several important roles in human health and is required for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. Some specific functions include:
- Building and maintaining strong bones - Magnesium helps regulate calcium and phosphate levels for bone mineralization. A deficiency can lead to osteoporosis.
- Muscle and nerve function - Magnesium contributes to relaxation of muscles and transmission of nerve impulses. Low levels may trigger twitching, cramping, and heart spasms.
- Energy production - Magnesium helps in the generation and transfer of energy within cells from the breakdown of carbohydrates and fats. Provides energy for all cellular metabolic reactions.
- Blood sugar control - Required for cells to uptake and utilize glucose from the bloodstream. Low levels linked to insulin resistance and diabetes.
- Blood pressure regulation - Studies show magnesium supplements reduce high blood pressure. Acts as a calcium channel blocker.
- Heart health - Protects against arrhythmias and heart attacks. Magnesium deficiency associated with higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
While deficiency is uncommon in developed countries, the average intake is still below the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of 420 mg per day for adult females and 310-420 mg for adult males. Those at greater risk include alcoholics, vegetarians, and people with malabsorption issues. Magnesium supplements and foods like nuts, seeds, dark leafy greens, and whole grains can aid in obtaining sufficient amounts.
Future Outlook
Research continues on developing new alloys that expand the applications of magnesium. Efforts focus on improving the corrosion resistance, formability, and strength. This allows use in additional structural components. Magnesium's low density makes it a promising option for the automotive industry to reduce vehicle weight and improve fuel efficiency. Aerospace manufacturers also recognize the benefits of lighter airframes and engines made from magnesium alloys. Overall, Magnesium Metal plays an important role and its use across many sectors is likely to grow in coming years.
In summary, magnesium is a remarkable yet overlooked mineral required for essential functions in the body. Its high strength-to-density ratio enables diverse industrial applications from transportation to electronics. New alloys improve properties, driving further innovation and development. Despite a history of industrial and scientific progress, more recognition is warranted regarding the role of magnesium in nutrition and health. Achieving recommended intakes supports physiological and physiological processes, disease prevention, and overall well-being. With its lightness, strength and biosupportive qualities, magnesium metal remains an elemental component for both industry and living systems.
Get more insights on- Magnesium Metal
The Magnesium Metal Market research report provides the latest industry data, growth, key segments and future trends on the basis of the detailed study.
This market report also allows you to identify the future opportunity and growth rate of the leading segment based on regions and countries.The research report also covers the comprehensive profiles of the key players in the market and an in-depth view of the competitive landscape worldwide.
This section includes a holistic view of the competitive landscape that includes various strategic developments such as key mergers& acquisitions, future capacities, partnerships, financial overviews, collaborations, new product developments, new product launches, and other developments.Get more information on "Global Magnesium Metal Market Research Report" by requesting FREE Sample Copy athttps://www.valuemarketresearch.com/contact/magnesium-metal-market/download-sampleMarket DynamicsThe growing automobile industry coupled with the rising geriatric population is the major factor driving the magnesium metal market.
Magnesium alloys have large demand in market due to its high strength, good castability and corrosion resistance property.
Magnesium finds application in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics and ships due its lightness and corrosion resistance property.
In addition to this, extensive utilization of magnesium powder in water treatment is further fuelling the market growth.
Abstract: The ' Magnesium Metal Industry, 2013-2023 Market Research Report' is a professional and in-depth study on the current state of the global Magnesium Metal industry with a focus on the Chinese market.
The report provides key statistics on the market status of the Magnesium Metal manufacturers and is a valuable source of guidance and direction for companies and individuals interested in the industry.Download FREE Sample of this Report @ https://www.24chemicalresearch.com/download-sample/2419/global-magnesium-metal-2018-635 The global magnesium metal market is anticipated to increase at a CAGR of 7.1% during 2016-2026, reaching US$ 6.2 Bn in revenues by 2026.
Get the Complete Report @ https://www.24chemicalresearch.com/reports/2419/global-magnesium-metal-2018-635Company Segments Of Magnesium Metal Industry:- Firstly, the report provides a basic overview of the industry including its definition, applications and manufacturing technology.
The compnaies include: Wenxi YinGuang Magnesium Industry Group, Taiyuan Tongxiang Magnesium, US Magnesium LLC, Dead Sea Magnesium Ltd, POSCO, RIMA Group, Solikamsk Magnesium Works OAO, Shanxi Wenxi Zhenxin Magnesium, Shanxi et al.
In this part, the report presents the company profile, product specifications, capacity, production value, and 2013-2018 market shares for each company.
Through the statistical analysis, the report depicts the global and Chinese total market of Magnesium Metal industry including capacity, production, production value, cost/profit, supply/demand and Chinese import/export.
