Magnesium Hydroxide (MDH)

Terracore Chemicals is a trusted magnesium hydroxide supplier serving cable manufacturers, plastics compounders, and construction materials producers across Sub-Saharan Africa and international export markets. Magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)₂, CAS 1309-42-8) is a white, odourless mineral that functions as both a flame retardant filler and a smoke suppressant — the non-halogenated alternative of choice wherever processing temperatures exceed the thermal stability limit of aluminium hydroxide.

Why Choose MDH for Flame Retardant Applications

Magnesium hydroxide decomposes endothermically at 300–320 °C, releasing water vapour that dilutes combustible gases and cools the burning surface. This higher decomposition temperature makes MDH the preferred choice for engineering polymers such as polypropylene, polyamide, and TPE compounds processed at temperatures above 200°C — conditions under which ATH would degrade prematurely.

MDH is particularly valued in low-smoke zero-halogen (LSZH) cable insulation and jacketing compounds, where fire safety standards require both flame retardancy and the suppression of toxic smoke. Terracore Chemicals offers fine-particle and ultra-fine grades with median particle sizes (d50) of 1.5–4 µm that integrate readily into demanding LSZH formulations without compromising mechanical performance.

Technical Specifications

All MDH grades supplied by Terracore Chemicals: CAS 1309-42-8; molecular weight 58.32 g/mol; purity (Mg(OH)₂) ≥99%; median particle size (d50) 1.5–4 µm; decomposition temperature 300–320 °C; moisture content ≤0.5%; specific surface area (BET) 5–15 m²/g. Technical data sheets and certificates of analysis are available on request.

Sourcing & Supply

As a direct magnesium hydroxide supplier, Terracore Chemicals ships MDH in 25 kg multi-wall paper bags, 500 kg big bags, and bulk tanker loads depending on order volume. Our facility in Kimberley, Northern Cape provides efficient access to South African export lanes connecting to Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.

Technical data sheets, safety data sheets, and certificates of analysis accompany every shipment. Custom particle size distributions and bespoke surface treatment options are available for contract customers requiring tailored MDH grades for specific polymer systems.

Storage and Handling

Magnesium hydroxide powder should be stored in sealed, moisture-resistant packaging in a cool, dry warehouse. When handling MDH powder in production environments, local exhaust ventilation or dust suppression and appropriate respiratory protection (P2 or P3 mask) are recommended. MDH is non-toxic and non-hazardous under normal handling conditions.