Magnesium carbonate basic: Properties, Uses & FAQs

Magnesium carbonate basic is a white, odorless inorganic powder consisting of a mixed hydroxide–carbonate salt of magnesium widely used as a laboratory reagent, buffering agent, and functional additive across pharmaceutical, food, and chemical research applications.

Chemical Name

Magnesium carbonate basic (basic magnesium carbonate)

Typical Formula

xMgCO3·yMg(OH)2·zH2O (variable hydrate composition)

Appearance

White to off-white powder or granules, odorless

Solubility

Practically insoluble in water; dissolves in dilute acids with effervescence

Aladdin SKU

M1520111

Storage Conditions

Store in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from moisture and acids

What Is Magnesium Carbonate Basic?

Magnesium carbonate basic is an inorganic salt with a variable composition, commonly represented as xMgCO₃·yMg(OH)₂·zH₂O. Unlike simple magnesium carbonate (MgCO₃), the basic form incorporates hydroxide groups and water of crystallization, making its exact stoichiometry dependent on the conditions of preparation. It appears as a white, lightweight, odorless powder and is practically insoluble in water. When exposed to dilute mineral acids it dissolves with visible CO₂ effervescence. The compound is also known by synonyms including basic magnesium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide carbonate, and white magnesia.

Key Applications in Research and Industry

Magnesium carbonate basic finds use across a broad range of scientific and industrial contexts:

• Pharmaceutical and food grade applications: Used as an anticaking agent, acidity regulator, and magnesium supplement source in formulation research. It is listed in pharmacopeias such as the USP and EP as an excipient.
• Analytical chemistry: Employed as a mild base or pH buffer component in laboratory preparations, and as a desiccant or anti-caking aid in sample handling.
• Chromatography and sample preparation: Used as a sorbent or matrix modifier to remove interferences in food and environmental sample extractions.
• Materials science: Acts as a precursor for preparation of magnesia (MgO) and magnesium-based ceramics through thermal decomposition.
• Chemical synthesis: Serves as a mild base or magnesium source in organic and inorganic synthesis protocols.

Purity Grades and Specifications

Magnesium carbonate basic is available in several quality grades to match diverse research and manufacturing needs. Common grades include:

• Reagent Grade (ACS/AR): Meets purity criteria set by the American Chemical Society or equivalent standards; suitable for general laboratory and analytical use.
• Pharmaceutical Grade (USP/EP): Meets specifications in the United States Pharmacopeia or European Pharmacopeia; required for drug formulation and biomedical research.
• Technical/Industrial Grade: Lower purity threshold; appropriate for non-critical manufacturing or preparative applications.

When ordering, researchers should confirm the assay percentage, heavy metals limits, chloride and sulfate residue levels, and loss on ignition values relevant to their application. Contact Aladdin Scientific for the full certificate of analysis (CoA) for product SKU M1520111.

Safe Handling and Storage

Magnesium carbonate basic is considered a low-hazard material under standard laboratory conditions, but proper handling practices should still be observed:

• Personal protective equipment (PPE): Wear appropriate gloves, safety spectacles, and a dust mask or respirator when handling powders to avoid inhalation of fine particles.
• Storage: Keep in a tightly sealed container stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated location. Protect from moisture, heat, and incompatible materials such as strong acids.
• Incompatibilities: Reacts with strong acids, releasing CO₂ gas. Avoid contact with strong oxidizers.
• Disposal: Dispose of in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations. Consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided by Aladdin Scientific for complete hazard and disposal information specific to SKU M1520111.

Ordering from Aladdin Scientific

Aladdin Scientific supplies magnesium carbonate basic under SKU M1520111. To place an order or request a quotation:

• Search for SKU M1520111 directly on the Aladdin Scientific website to view current pricing, pack sizes, and stock availability.
• Request a certificate of analysis (CoA) or safety data sheet (SDS) via the product page or by contacting customer service.
• Bulk and institutional pricing may be available; contact the Aladdin sales team for volume discount inquiries.
• Reward points, coupons, and promotional credits can be applied at checkout in accordance with current promotions — see the Aladdin website for details.

For technical questions about suitability for your specific application, our technical support team is available to assist.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between magnesium carbonate and magnesium carbonate basic?

Simple magnesium carbonate (MgCO3) is a pure binary salt, while magnesium carbonate basic is a mixed compound containing both carbonate and hydroxide groups, typically represented as xMgCO3·yMg(OH)2·zH2O. The basic form has variable stoichiometry depending on its preparation method and is the more commonly commercialized form due to its greater stability under ambient conditions.

Is magnesium carbonate basic soluble in water?

Magnesium carbonate basic is practically insoluble in water under normal conditions, which is why it is commonly used as an anticaking agent and flow agent in powder formulations. However, it readily dissolves in dilute mineral acids such as hydrochloric acid or sulfuric acid, accompanied by effervescence as CO2 is released.

What purity grade of magnesium carbonate basic should I choose for my research?

Grade selection depends on your application. For general analytical or synthetic chemistry, reagent grade (ACS/AR) is typically sufficient. For pharmaceutical formulation development or biomedical research where strict impurity limits apply, pharmaceutical grade (USP/EP) is recommended. Contact Aladdin Scientific to confirm the available grades and specifications for SKU M1520111 before ordering.

How should magnesium carbonate basic be stored to maintain its quality?

Store magnesium carbonate basic in a tightly closed container placed in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Protect the material from moisture, as prolonged exposure to humidity can affect its properties. Keep away from strong acids and oxidizing agents. Always refer to the product's Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for full storage guidance.

Can magnesium carbonate basic be used in food or pharmaceutical applications?

Yes, magnesium carbonate basic is recognized as an approved excipient and food additive in many regulatory frameworks, where it functions as an anticaking agent, acidity regulator, and source of dietary magnesium. For regulated applications, ensure the specific lot meets the relevant pharmacopeial or food-grade specification. Confirm grade availability for SKU M1520111 with Aladdin Scientific prior to use.

References

1. United States Pharmacopeia (USP): Magnesium Carbonate monograph. USP–NF. United States Pharmacopeial Convention.
2. European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.): Magnesium Carbonate, Heavy / Light monographs. Council of Europe.
3. Codex Alimentarius Commission: Magnesium carbonates as food additives. Joint FAO/WHO Food Standards Programme.
4. Aladdin Scientific Product Page: Magnesium carbonate basic, SKU M1520111. Aladdin Scientific Corp.

Products are supplied for research and development use only. Not for use in humans, animals, diagnosis, or therapy.