What Is Magnesium Carbonate?

Magnesium carbonate is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula MgCO₃, a molecular weight of 84.31, and a relative density of 3.037. It appears as a white granular powder, decomposes at 350°C, loses carbon dioxide at 700°C, is slightly soluble in cold water, and dissolves slowly in acids. Its trihydrate is a colourless, needle-like crystal with a melting point of 165°C and a relative density of 1.850. Its pentahydrate is a white monoclinic crystal with a relative density of 1.73; it decomposes when heated in air. It can be prepared by passing carbon dioxide through an aqueous solution of a magnesium salt while adding sodium carbonate to form the hydrate; drying the hydrate below 50°C yields the anhydrous compound.

Magnesium Carbonate Chemical Properties

What Does Magnesium Carbonate Do？

Magnesium carbonate is used in the manufacture of magnesium salts, magnesium oxide, fire-retardant coatings, inks, glass, toothpaste, rubber fillers, and other products. In food applications, it serves as a flour improver and bread leavening agent; it is also used as an antacid for treating gastric and duodenal ulcers and as an alkalising agent, desiccant, colour retainer, anti-caking agent, carrier, leavening agent, and acidity regulator. EEC-approved uses include table salt, powdered sugar, acidified whipped cream, milk, ice cream, and cookies. It is also used in the formulation of chemical leavening agents.

What Is Magnesium Carbonate Good for?

Magnesium is one of the essential minerals for the human body and is involved in more than 300 biological reactions. Magnesium carbonate, a common magnesium supplement, can effectively help replenish magnesium. Magnesium carbonate has excellent antacid properties; it neutralises stomach acid and relieves stomach discomfort, particularly heartburn and indigestion caused by excess stomach acid. It reacts with stomach acid to produce water and carbon dioxide, thereby reducing the acidic burden on the stomach. For people who occasionally experience excess stomach acid, magnesium carbonate is a gentle treatment option.

What Are Magnesium Carbonate Side Effects?

Taking higher doses may cause an increase in the frequency of bowel movements and a change in stool consistency to a soft, paste-like texture. Long-term use may lead to adverse reactions such as constipation, hypermagnesaemia, osteoporosis, vitamin A deficiency, insomnia, headaches, and psychiatric abnormalities. Therefore, long-term use of magnesium aluminium carbonate should be avoided, and continuous use should not exceed 8 weeks.