Magnesium peroxide

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Magnesium peroxide
IUPAC name Magnesium peroxide
Other names Magnesium dioxide, Magnesium bioxide, UN 1476
Identifiers
CAS number [1335-26-8]
EINECS number 238-438-1
Properties
Molecular formula MgO2
Molar mass 56.30 g/mol
Appearance White or off-white powder
Melting point

350 °C (decomp.)

Solubility in water Slightly soluble
Hazards
Main hazards Corrosive (C)
NFPA 704
0
2
1
 
R-phrases R8
S-phrases S17, S36
Except where noted otherwise, data are given for
materials in their standard state
(at 25 °C, 100 kPa)

Infobox disclaimer and references

Magnesium peroxide is a fine powder peroxide with a white to white-off color. It is similar to calcium peroxide because magnesium peroxide also releases oxygen by breaking down at a controlled rate with a hydrous fluid. Besides this it can be used in bleaching, disinfecting, and deodorizing.

In contact with water it decomposes by the reactions:

MgO2+ 2 H2O → Mg(OH)2 + H2O2
2 H2O2 → 2 H2O + O2

[edit] Applications

Magnesium peroxide being environmentally benign and its stable oxygen release are used widely in the cosmetic, agricultural, pharmaceutical, and environmental industries. It is used to reduce contaminant levels in groundwater. Magnesium peroxide is used in the bioremediation of contaminated soil and can improve the soil quality for plant growth and metabolism. It also used in the aquaculture industry for bioremediation.

Commercially, magnesium peroxide exists as a form of compound of magnesium peroxide and magnesium hydroxide.

[edit] External links